Vortex control for motive flow rate modulation of transcritical R744 ejector systems

Jingwei Zhu, Stefan Elbel

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This paper presents results of a novel expansion device refrigerant flow control mechanism called vortex control. The key advantage of this control mechanism is being far less vulnerable to clogging than conventional expansion devices since the flow control is achieved without having to adjust the cross-sectional flow area in order to achieve the desired modulation effect. Vortex flow control is seen as particularly promising when applied to transcritical R744 ejectors, where flow control of the motive nozzle is known to substantially impact ejector and cycle efficiencies. Vortex control can potentially offer the advantage that overall ejector efficiency is less impacted than designs where a needle is used to modulate the motive nozzle flow. The effects of operating conditions were investigated experimentally. It is shown that vortex flow control appears to be feasible for two-phase ejectors using R744 and similar flow modulation ranges as with needle control were achieved.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication13th IIR Gustav Lorentzen Conference on Natural Refrigerants
Subtitle of host publicationNatural Refrigerant Solutions for Warm Climate Countries, Proceedings
PublisherInternational Institute of Refrigeration
Pages263-270
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9782362150265
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018
Event13th IIR Gustav Lorentzen Conference on Natural Refrigerants: Natural Refrigerant Solutions for Warm Climate Countries - Valencia, Spain
Duration: Jun 18 2018Jun 20 2018

Publication series

NameRefrigeration Science and Technology
Volume2018-June
ISSN (Print)0151-1637

Other

Other13th IIR Gustav Lorentzen Conference on Natural Refrigerants: Natural Refrigerant Solutions for Warm Climate Countries
Country/TerritorySpain
CityValencia
Period6/18/186/20/18

Keywords

  • Carbon dioxide
  • Ejector
  • Flow modulation
  • Motive nozzle
  • Two-phase
  • Vortex control

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Control and Systems Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Condensed Matter Physics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Vortex control for motive flow rate modulation of transcritical R744 ejector systems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this