Patent Application
20230117208
The present invention relates to an air conditioner that uses refrigerant with a low global warming potential (GWP).
In recent years, use of refrigerant with a low GWP (hereinafter referred to as low-GWP refrigerant) in air conditioners has been considered from the viewpoint of environmental protection. A dominant example of low-GWP refrigerant is a refrigerant mixture containing 1,2-difluoroethylene.
However, the related art giving consideration from the aspect of increasing the efficiency of air conditioners using the foregoing refrigerant is rarely found. For example, in the case of applying the foregoing refrigerant to the air conditioner disclosed in PTL 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-124848), there is an issue of how to achieve high efficiency.
An air conditioner according to a first aspect includes a compressor that compresses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, a motor that drives the compressor, and a connection unit that causes power to be supplied from an alternating-current (AC) power source to the motor without frequency conversion.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, it is possible to provide the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration.
An air conditioner according to a second aspect is the air conditioner according to the first aspect, in which the connection unit directly applies an AC voltage of the AC power source between at least two terminals of the motor.
An air conditioner according to a third aspect is the air conditioner according to the first aspect or the second aspect, in which the AC power source is a single-phase power source.
An air conditioner according to a fourth aspect is the air conditioner according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect, in which one terminal of the motor is connected in series to an activation circuit.
An air conditioner according to a fifth aspect is the air conditioner according to the fourth aspect, in which the activation circuit is a circuit in which a positive temperature coefficient thermistor and an operation capacitor are connected in parallel to each other.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, after the compressor has been activated, the PTC thermistor self-heats and the resistance value thereof increases, and switching to an operation circuit substantially by the operation capacitor occurs. Thus, the compressor enters a state of being capable of outputting a rated torque at appropriate timing.
An air conditioner according to a sixth aspect is the air conditioner according to the first aspect or the second aspect, in which the AC power source is a three-phase power source.
This air conditioner does not require an activation circuit and thus the cost is relatively low.
An air conditioner according to a seventh aspect is the air conditioner according to any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect, in which the motor is an induction motor.
In this air conditioner, the motor is capable of high output with relatively low cost, and thus the efficiency of the air conditioner can be increased.
An air conditioner according to a twentieth aspect is the air conditioner according to any of the first through seventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane(R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-1-propene (R1234yf),
wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:
point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),
point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI;
the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0);
the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7); and
the line segments JN and EI are straight lines.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration can also be achieved when a refrigerant having a sufficiently low GWP, a refrigeration capacity (may also be referred to as a cooling capacity or a capacity) equal to those of R410A and classified with lower flammability (Class 2L) in the standard of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is used.
An air conditioner according to a twenty-first aspect is the air conditioner according to any of the first through seventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,
wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:
point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),
point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),
point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and
point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM);
the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, −0.132y2+2.34y+47.4);
the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, −0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02);
the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, −0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4); and
the line segments NV and GM are straight lines.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration can also be achieved when a refrigerant having a sufficiently low GWP, a refrigeration capacity (may also be referred to as a cooling capacity or a capacity) equal to those of R410A and classified with lower flammability (Class 2L) in the standard of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is used.
An air conditioner according to a twenty-second aspect is the air conditioner according to any of the first through seventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,
wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:
point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),
or on these line segments;
the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488);
the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365); and
the line segment UO is a straight line.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration can also be achieved when a refrigerant having a sufficiently low GWP, a refrigeration capacity (may also be referred to as a cooling capacity or a capacity) equal to those of R410A and classified with lower flammability (Class 2L) in the standard of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is used.
An air conditioner according to a twenty-third aspect is the air conditioner according to any of the first through seventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,
wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:
point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),
point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and
point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),
or on these line segments;
the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235);
the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874);
the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512);
the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324); and
the line segment TL is a straight line.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration can also be achieved when a refrigerant having a sufficiently low GWP, a refrigeration capacity (may also be referred to as a cooling capacity or a capacity) equal to those of R410A and classified with lower flammability (Class 2L) in the standard of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is used.
An air conditioner according to a twenty-fourth aspect is the air conditioner according to any of the first through seventh aspects, wherein the refrigerant comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf,
wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum in the refrigerant is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:
point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),
point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
or on these line segments;
the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9);
the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874); and
the line segment TP is a straight line.
In the air conditioner that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source and the motor. Thus, the air conditioner that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration can also be achieved when a refrigerant having a sufficiently low GWP, a refrigeration capacity (may also be referred to as a cooling capacity or a capacity) equal to those of R410A and classified with lower flammability (Class 2L) in the standard of The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is used.
In the present specification, the term “refrigerant” includes at least compounds that are specified in ISO 817 (International Organization for Standardization), and that are given a refrigerant number (ASHRAE number) representing the type of refrigerant with “R” at the beginning; and further includes refrigerants that have properties equivalent to those of such refrigerants, even though a refrigerant number is not yet given. Refrigerants are broadly divided into fluorocarbon compounds and non-fluorocarbon compounds in terms of the structure of the compounds. Fluorocarbon compounds include chlorofluorocarbons (CFC), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC), and hydrofluorocarbons (HFC). Non-fluorocarbon compounds include propane (R290), propylene (R1270), butane (R600), isobutane (R600a), carbon dioxide (R744), ammonia (R717), and the like.
In the present specification, the phrase “composition comprising a refrigerant” at least includes (1) a refrigerant itself (including a mixture of refrigerants), (2) a composition that further comprises other components and that can be mixed with at least a refrigeration oil to obtain a working fluid for a refrigerating machine, and (3) a working fluid for a refrigerating machine containing a refrigeration oil. In the present specification, of these three embodiments, the composition (2) is referred to as a “refrigerant composition” so as to distinguish it from a refrigerant itself (including a mixture of refrigerants). Further, the working fluid for a refrigerating machine (3) is referred to as a “refrigeration oil-containing working fluid” so as to distinguish it from the “refrigerant composition.”
In the present specification, when the term “alternative” is used in a context in which the first refrigerant is replaced with the second refrigerant, the first type of “alternative” means that equipment designed for operation using the first refrigerant can be operated using the second refrigerant under optimum conditions, optionally with changes of only a few parts (at least one of the following: refrigeration oil, gasket, packing, expansion valve, dryer, and other parts) and equipment adjustment. In other words, this type of alternative means that the same equipment is operated with an alternative refrigerant. Embodiments of this type of “alternative” include “drop-in alternative,” “nearly drop-in alternative,” and “retrofit,” in the order in which the extent of changes and adjustment necessary for replacing the first refrigerant with the second refrigerant is smaller.
The term “alternative” also includes a second type of “alternative,” which means that equipment designed for operation using the second refrigerant is operated for the same use as the existing use with the first refrigerant by using the second refrigerant. This type of alternative means that the same use is achieved with an alternative refrigerant.
In the present specification, the term “refrigerating machine” refers to machines in general that draw heat from an object or space to make its temperature lower than the temperature of ambient air, and maintain a low temperature. In other words, refrigerating machines refer to conversion machines that gain energy from the outside to do work, and that perform energy conversion, in order to transfer heat from where the temperature is lower to where the temperature is higher.
In the present specification, a refrigerant having a “WCF lower flammability” means that the most flammable composition (worst case of formulation for flammability: WCF) has a burning velocity of 10 cm/s or less according to the US ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013. Further, in the present specification, a refrigerant having “ASHRAE lower flammability” means that the burning velocity of WCF is 10 cm/s or less, that the most flammable fraction composition (worst case of fractionation for flammability: WCFF), which is specified by performing a leakage test during storage, shipping, or use based on ANSI/ASHRAE 34-2013 using WCF, has a burning velocity of 10 cm/s or less, and that flammability classification according to the US ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013 is determined to classified as be “Class 2L.”
In the present specification, a refrigerant having an “RCL of x % or more” means that the refrigerant has a refrigerant concentration limit (RCL), calculated in accordance with the US ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 34-2013, of x % or more. RCL refers to a concentration limit in the air in consideration of safety factors. RCL is an index for reducing the risk of acute toxicity, suffocation, and flammability in a closed space where humans are present. RCL is determined in accordance with the ASHRAE Standard. More specifically, RCL is the lowest concentration among the acute toxicity exposure limit (ATEL), the oxygen deprivation limit (ODL), and the flammable concentration limit (FCL), which are respectively calculated in accordance with sections 7.1.1, 7.1.2, and 7.1.3 of the ASHRAE Standard.
In the present specification, temperature glide refers to an absolute value of the difference between the initial temperature and the end temperature in the phase change process of a composition containing the refrigerant of the present disclosure in the heat exchanger of a refrigerant system.
Any one of various refrigerants such as refrigerant D details of these refrigerant are to be mentioned later, can be used as the refrigerant.
The refrigerant according to the present disclosure can be preferably used as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine.
The composition according to the present disclosure is suitable for use as an alternative refrigerant for HFC refrigerant such as R410A, R407C and R404 etc, or HCFC refrigerant such as R22 etc.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure comprises at least the refrigerant according to the present disclosure, and can be used for the same use as the refrigerant according to the present disclosure. Moreover, the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure can be further mixed with at least a refrigeration oil to thereby obtain a working fluid for a refrigerating machine.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure further comprises at least one other component in addition to the refrigerant according to the present disclosure. The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise at least one of the following other components, if necessary. As described above, when the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure is used as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine, it is generally used as a mixture with at least a refrigeration oil. Therefore, it is preferable that the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure does not substantially comprise a refrigeration oil. Specifically, in the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure, the content of the refrigeration oil based on the entire refrigerant composition is preferably 0 to 1 mass %, and more preferably 0 to 0.1 mass %.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may contain a small amount of water. The water content of the refrigerant composition is preferably 0.1 mass % or less based on the entire refrigerant. A small amount of water contained in the refrigerant composition stabilizes double bonds in the molecules of unsaturated fluorocarbon compounds that can be present in the refrigerant, and makes it less likely that the unsaturated fluorocarbon compounds will be oxidized, thus increasing the stability of the refrigerant composition.
A tracer is added to the refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure at a detectable concentration such that when the refrigerant composition has been diluted, contaminated, or undergone other changes, the tracer can trace the changes.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single tracer, or two or more tracers.
The tracer is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used tracers. Preferably, a compound that cannot be an impurity inevitably mixed in the refrigerant of the present disclosure is selected as the tracer.
Examples of tracers include hydrofluorocarbons, hydrochlorofluorocarbons, chlorofluorocarbons, hydrochlorocarbons, fluorocarbons, deuterated hydrocarbons, deuterated hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, fluoroethers, brominated compounds, iodinated compounds, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and nitrous oxide (N20). The tracer is particularly preferably a hydrofluorocarbon, a hydrochlorofluorocarbon, a chlorofluorocarbon, a fluorocarbon, a hydrochlorocarbon, a fluorocarbon, or a fluoroether.
The following compounds are preferable as the tracer.
FC-14 (tetrafluoromethane, CF4)
HCC-40 (chloromethane, CH3Cl)
HFC-23 (trifluoromethane, CHF3)
HFC-41 (fluoromethane, CH3Cl)
HFC-125 (pentafluoroethane, CF3CHF2)
HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, CF3CH2F)
HFC-134 (1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, CHF2CHF2)
HFC-143a (1,1,1-trifluoroethane, CF3CH3)
HFC-143 (1,1,2-trifluoroethane, CHF2CH2F)
HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane, CHF2CH3)
HFC-152 (1,2-difluoroethane, CH2FCH2F)
HFC-161 (fluoroethane, CH3CH2F)
HFC-245fa (1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane, CF3CH2CHF2)
HFC-236fa (1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane, CF3CH2CF3)
HFC-236ea (1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane, CF3CHFCHF2)
HFC-227ea (1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane, CF3CHFCF3)
HCFC-22 (chlorodifluoromethane, CHClF2)
HCFC-31 (chlorofluoromethane, CH2ClF)
CFC-1113 (chlorotrifluoroethylene, CF2═CClF)
HFE-125 (trifluoromethyl-difluoromethyl ether, CF3OCHF2)
HFE-134a (trifluoromethyl-fluoromethyl ether, CF3OCH2F)
HFE-143a (trifluoromethyl-methyl ether, CF3OCH3)
HFE-227ea (trifluoromethyl-tetrafluoroethyl ether, CF3OCHFCF3)
HFE-236fa (trifluoromethyl-trifluoroethyl ether, CF3OCH2CF3)
The tracer compound may be present in the refrigerant composition at a total concentration of about 10 parts per million (ppm) to about 1000 ppm. Preferably, the tracer compound is present in the refrigerant composition at a total concentration of about 30 ppm to about 500 ppm, and most preferably, the tracer compound is present at a total concentration of about 50 ppm to about 300 ppm.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single ultraviolet fluorescent dye, or two or more ultraviolet fluorescent dyes.
The ultraviolet fluorescent dye is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used ultraviolet fluorescent dyes.
Examples of ultraviolet fluorescent dyes include naphthalimide, coumarin, anthracene, phenanthrene, xanthene, thioxanthene, naphthoxanthene, fluorescein, and derivatives thereof. The ultraviolet fluorescent dye is particularly preferably either naphthalimide or coumarin, or both.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single stabilizer, or two or more stabilizers.
The stabilizer is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used stabilizers.
Examples of stabilizers include nitro compounds, ethers, and amines.
Examples of nitro compounds include aliphatic nitro compounds, such as nitromethane and nitroethane; and aromatic nitro compounds, such as nitro benzene and nitro styrene.
Examples of ethers include 1,4-dioxane.
Examples of amines include 2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropylamine and diphenylamine.
Examples of stabilizers also include butylhydroxyxylene and benzotriazole.
The content of the stabilizer is not limited. Generally, the content of the stabilizer is preferably 0.01 to 5 mass %, and more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass %, based on the entire refrigerant.
The refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure may comprise a single polymerization inhibitor, or two or more polymerization inhibitors.
The polymerization inhibitor is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used polymerization inhibitors.
Examples of polymerization inhibitors include 4-methoxy-1-naphthol, hydroquinone, hydroquinone methyl ether, dimethyl-t-butylphenol, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol, and benzotriazole.
The content of the polymerization inhibitor is not limited. Generally, the content of the polymerization inhibitor is preferably 0.01 to 5 mass %, and more preferably 0.05 to 2 mass %, based on the entire refrigerant.
The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure comprises at least the refrigerant or refrigerant composition according to the present disclosure and a refrigeration oil, for use as a working fluid in a refrigerating machine. Specifically, the refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure is obtained by mixing a refrigeration oil used in a compressor of a refrigerating machine with the refrigerant or the refrigerant composition. The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid generally comprises 10 to 50 mass % of refrigeration oil.
The refrigeration oil is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used refrigeration oils. In this case, refrigeration oils that are superior in the action of increasing the miscibility with the mixture and the stability of the mixture, for example, are suitably selected as necessary.
The base oil of the refrigeration oil is preferably, for example, at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyalkylene glycols (PAG), polyol esters (POE), and polyvinyl ethers (PVE).
The refrigeration oil may further contain additives in addition to the base oil. The additive may be at least one member selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, extreme-pressure agents, acid scavengers, oxygen scavengers, copper deactivators, rust inhibitors, oil agents, and antifoaming agents.
A refrigeration oil with a kinematic viscosity of 5 to 400 cSt at 40° C. is preferable from the standpoint of lubrication.
The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure may further optionally contain at least one additive. Examples of additives include compatibilizing agents described below.
The refrigeration oil-containing working fluid according to the present disclosure may comprise a single compatibilizing agent, or two or more compatibilizing agents.
The compatibilizing agent is not limited, and can be suitably selected from commonly used compatibilizing agents.
Examples of compatibilizing agents include polyoxyalkylene glycol ethers, amides, nitriles, ketones, chlorocarbons, esters, lactones, aryl ethers, fluoroethers, and 1,1,1-trifluoroalkanes. The compatibilizing agent is particularly preferably a polyoxyalkylene glycol ether.
Hereinafter, the refrigerants which are the refrigerants used in the present embodiment, will be described in detail.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is a mixed refrigerant comprising trans-1,2-difluoroethylene (HFO-1132(E)), difluoromethane (R32), and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-l-propene (R1234yf).
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure has various properties that are desirable as an R410A-alternative refrigerant; i.e., a refrigerating capacity equivalent to that of R410A, a sufficiently low GWP, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:
point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),
point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI);
the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0);
the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7); and
the line segments JN and EI are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:
point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),
point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),
point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and
point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM);
the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, −0.132y2+2.34y+47.4);
the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, −0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02);
the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, −0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4); and
the line segments NV and GM are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 70% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:
point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),
or on these line segments;
the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488);
the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365); and
the line segment UO is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 250 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:
point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),
point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and
point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),
or on these line segments;
the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235);
the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874);
the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512);
the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324); and
the line segment TL is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:
point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),
point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
or on these line segments;
the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9);
the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874); and
the line segment TP is a straight line. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ac, cf, fd, and da that connect the following 4 points:
point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),
point c (36.5, 18.2, 45.3),
point f (47.6, 18.3, 34.1), and
point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),
or on these line segments;
the line segment ac is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
the line segment fd is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
the line segments cf and da are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 85% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ab, be, ed, and da that connect the following 4 points:
point a (71.1, 0.0, 28.9),
point b (42.6, 14.5, 42.9),
point e (51.4, 14.6, 34.0), and
point d (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),
or on these line segments;
the line segment ab is represented by coordinates (0.0181y2−2.2288y+71.096, y, −0.0181y2+1.2288y+28.904);
the line segment ed is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−1.7y+72, y, −0.02y2+0.7y+28); and
the line segments be and da are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 85% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 100 or less, and a lower flammability (Class 2L) according to the ASHRAE standard.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gi, ij, and jg that connect the following 3 points:
point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),
point i (55.1, 18.3, 26.6), and
point j (77.5. 18.4, 4.1),
or on these line segments;
the line segment gi is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
the line segments ij and jg are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 95% or more relative to R410A and a GWP of 100 or less, undergoes fewer or no changes such as polymerization or decomposition, and also has excellent stability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure is preferably a refrigerant wherein
when the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments gh, hk, and kg that connect the following 3 points:
point g (77.5, 6.9, 15.6),
point h (61.8, 14.6, 23.6), and
point k (77.5, 14.6, 7.9),
or on these line segments;
the line segment gh is represented by coordinates (0.02y2−2.4583y+93.396, y, −0.02y2+1.4583y+6.604); and
the line segments hk and kg are straight lines. When the requirements above are satisfied, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 95% or more relative to R410A and a GWP of 100 or less, undergoes fewer or no changes such as polymerization or decomposition, and also has excellent stability.
The refrigerant D according to the present disclosure may further comprise other additional refrigerants in addition to HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf, as long as the above properties and effects are not impaired. In this respect, the refrigerant according to the present disclosure preferably comprises HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf in a total amount of 99.5 mass % or more, more preferably 99.75 mass % or more, and still more preferably 99.9 mass % or more based on the entire refrigerant.
Such additional refrigerants are not limited, and can be selected from a wide range of refrigerants. The mixed refrigerant may comprise a single additional refrigerant, or two or more additional refrigerants.
The present disclosure is described in more detail below with reference to Examples of refrigerant D. However, the refrigerant D is not limited to the Examples.
The composition of each mixed refrigerant of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf was defined as WCF. A leak simulation was performed using the NIST Standard Reference Database REFLEAK Version 4.0 under the conditions of Equipment, Storage, Shipping, Leak, and Recharge according to the ASHRAE Standard 34-2013. The most flammable fraction was defined as WCFF.
A burning velocity test was performed using the apparatus shown in
The results indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in the ternary composition diagram shown in
The results also indicate that when coordinates (x,y,z) in the ternary composition diagram shown in
Mixed refrigerants were prepared by mixing HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf in amounts (mass %) shown in Tables 116 to 144 based on the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf. The coefficient of performance (COP) ratio and the refrigerating capacity ratio relative to R410 of the mixed refrigerants shown in Tables 116 to 144 were determined. The conditions for calculation were as described below.
Evaporating temperature: 5° C.
Condensation temperature: 45° C.
Degree of superheating: 5 K
Degree of subcooling: 5 K
Compressor efficiency: 70%
Tables 116 to 144 show these values together with the GWP of each mixed refrigerant.
The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments IJ, JN, NE, and EI that connect the following 4 points:
point I (72.0, 0.0, 28.0),
point J (48.5, 18.3, 33.2),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point E (58.3, 0.0, 41.7),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment EI),
the line segment IJ is represented by coordinates (0.0236y2−1.7616y+72.0, y, −0.0236y2+0.7616y+28.0),
the line segment NE is represented by coordinates (0.012y2−1.9003y+58.3, y, −0.012y2+0.9003y+41.7), and
the line segments JN and EI are straight lines, the refrigerant D has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.
The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments MM′, M′N, NV, VG, and GM that connect the following 5 points:
point M (52.6, 0.0, 47.4),
point M′ (39.2, 5.0, 55.8),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1),
point V (11.0, 18.1, 70.9), and
point G (39.6, 0.0, 60.4),
or on these line segments (excluding the points on the line segment GM),
the line segment MM′ is represented by coordinates (0.132y2−3.34y+52.6, y, −0.132y2+2.34y+47.4),
the line segment M′N is represented by coordinates (0.0596y2−2.2541y+48.98, y, −0.0596y2+1.2541y+51.02),
the line segment VG is represented by coordinates (0.0123y2−1.8033y+39.6, y, −0.0123y2+0.8033y+60.4), and
the line segments NV and GM are straight lines, the refrigerant D according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 70% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 125 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments ON, NU, and UO that connect the following 3 points:
point O (22.6, 36.8, 40.6),
point N (27.7, 18.2, 54.1), and
point U (3.9, 36.7, 59.4),
or on these line segments,
the line segment ON is represented by coordinates (0.0072y2−0.6701y+37.512, y, −0.0072y2−0.3299y+62.488),
the line segment NU is represented by coordinates (0.0083y2−1.7403y+56.635, y, −0.0083y2+0.7403y+43.365), and
the line segment UO is a straight line, the refrigerant D according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 80% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 250 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The results also indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments QR, RT, TL, LK, and KQ that connect the following 5 points:
point Q (44.6, 23.0, 32.4),
point R (25.5, 36.8, 37.7),
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
point L (28.9, 51.7, 19.4), and
point K (35.6, 36.8, 27.6),
or on these line segments,
the line segment QR is represented by coordinates (0.0099y2−1.975y+84.765, y, −0.0099y2+0.975y+15.235),
the line segment RT is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874),
the line segment LK is represented by coordinates (0.0049y2−0.8842y+61.488, y, −0.0049y2−0.1158y+38.512),
the line segment KQ is represented by coordinates (0.0095y2−1.2222y+67.676, y, −0.0095y2+0.2222y+32.324), and
the line segment TL is a straight line, the refrigerant D according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and a WCF lower flammability.
The results further indicate that under the condition that the mass % of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf based on their sum is respectively represented by x, y, and z, when coordinates (x,y,z) in a ternary composition diagram in which the sum of HFO-1132(E), R32, and R1234yf is 100 mass % are within the range of a figure surrounded by line segments PS, ST, and TP that connect the following 3 points:
point P (20.5, 51.7, 27.8),
point S (21.9, 39.7, 38.4), and
point T (8.6, 51.6, 39.8),
or on these line segments,
the line segment PS is represented by coordinates (0.0064y2−0.7103y+40.1, y, −0.0064y2−0.2897y+59.9),
the line segment ST is represented by coordinates (0.0082y2−1.8683y+83.126, y, −0.0082y2+0.8683y+16.874), and
the line segment TP is a straight line, the refrigerant D according to the present disclosure has a refrigerating capacity ratio of 92.5% or more relative to R410A, a GWP of 350 or less, and an ASHRAE lower flammability.
The air conditioner 1 has a refrigerant circuit 11 in which a compressor 100, a four-way switching valve 16, a heat-source-side heat exchanger 17, an expansion valve 18 serving as a decompression mechanism, and a utilization-side heat exchanger 13 are connected in a loop shape by refrigerant pipes.
In this embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with refrigerant for performing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant is a refrigerant mixture containing 1,2-difluoroethylene, and any one of the above-described refrigerant A to refrigerant E can be used. The refrigerant circuit 11 is filled with refrigerating machine oil together with the refrigerant mixture.
In the refrigerant circuit 11, the utilization-side heat exchanger 13 belongs to the utilization unit 2. In addition, a utilization-side fan 14 is mounted in the utilization unit 2. The utilization-side fan 14 generates an air flow to the utilization-side heat exchanger 13.
A utilization-side communicator 35 and a utilization-side microcomputer 41 are mounted in the utilization unit 2. The utilization-side communicator 35 is connected to the utilization-side microcomputer 41.
The utilization-side communicator 35 is used by the utilization unit 2 to communicate with the heat source unit 3. The utilization-side microcomputer 41 is supplied with a control voltage even during a standby state in which the air conditioner 1 is not operating. Thus, the utilization-side microcomputer 41 is constantly activated.
In the refrigerant circuit 11, the compressor 100, the four-way switching valve 16, the heat-source-side heat exchanger 17, and the expansion valve 18 belong to the heat source unit 3. In addition, a heat-source-side fan 19 is mounted in the heat source unit 3. The heat-source-side fan 19 generates an air flow to the heat-source-side heat exchanger 17.
In addition, a connection unit 30, a heat-source-side communicator 36, and a heat-source-side microcomputer 42 are mounted in the heat source unit 3. The connection unit 30 and the heat-source-side communicator 36 are connected to the heat-source-side microcomputer 42.
The motor 70 is an induction motor and includes a squirrel-cage rotor 71, and a stator 72 having a main winding 727 and an auxiliary winding 728. The squirrel-cage rotor 71 rotates following a rotating magnetic field generated by the stator 72.
The compressor 100 has an M terminal, an S terminal, and a C terminal. The M terminal and the C terminal are connected by the main winding 727. The S terminal and the C terminal are connected by the auxiliary winding 728.
The AC power source 90 and the compressor 100 are connected by power supply lines 901 and 902 that supply an AC voltage to the compressor 100. The power supply line 901 is connected to the C terminal via a thermostat 26.
The thermostat 26 detects a temperature of a room equipped with the air conditioner 1. The thermostat 26 opens the contact thereof when the room temperature is within a set temperature range and closes the contact when the room temperature is out of the set temperature range.
The power supply line 902 branches off into a first branch line 902A and a second branch line 902B. The first branch line 902A is connected to the M terminal, and the second branch line 902B is connected to the S terminal via an activation circuit 20.
The activation circuit 20 is a circuit in which a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor 21 and an operation capacitor 22 are connected in parallel to each other.
In this embodiment, the thermostat 26 connected to the power supply line 901 and the activation circuit 20 connected to the power supply line 902 are referred to as the connection unit 30.
In the operation circuit of the compressor 100 having the above-described configuration, turning on of the AC power source 90 causes a current to flow through the auxiliary winding 728 via the PTC thermistor 21 and the motor 70 to be activated.
After the motor 70 has been activated, the PTC thermistor 21 self-heats by using the current flowing therethrough, and the resistance value thereof increases. As a result, the operation capacitor 22, instead of the PTC thermistor 21, is connected to the auxiliary winding 728, and the state shifts to a stable operation state.
In the air conditioner 1 that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor 100 can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the AC power source 90 and the motor 70. Thus, it is possible to provide the air conditioner 1 that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration.
In the air conditioner 1 that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the connection between the auxiliary winding 728 and the activation circuit 20, which is a parallel circuit of the PTC thermistor 21 and the operation capacitor 22, makes it possible to achieve a large activation torque of the motor 70 of the compressor 100.
After the compressor 100 has been activated, the PTC thermistor 21 self-heats and the resistance value thereof increases, the state changes to a state where the operation capacitor 22 and the auxiliary winding 728 are substantially connected to each other, and the compressor 100 is operated at a constant rotation rate (power source frequency). Thus, the compressor 100 enters a state of being capable of outputting a rated torque. As described above, in the air conditioner 1, switching of connection to the operation capacitor 22 is performed at appropriate timing, and thus the efficiency of the compressor 100 can be increased.
The motor 70 is an induction motor and is capable of high output with relatively low cost, and thus the efficiency of the air conditioner 1 can be increased.
The connection unit 130 is a relay having contacts 130u, 130v, and 130w. The contact 130u opens or closes a power supply line 903 between an R terminal of the three-phase AC power source 190 and a U-phase winding Lu of the motor 170. The contact 130v opens or closes a power supply line 904 between an S terminal of the three-phase AC power source 190 and a V-phase winding Lv of the motor 170. The contact 130w opens or closes a power supply line 905 between a T terminal of the three-phase AC power source 190 and a W-phase winding Lw of the motor 170.
AC voltages are supplied from the R terminal, the S terminal, and the T terminal of the three-phase AC power source 190 to the corresponding U-phase winding Lu, the V-phase winding Lv, and the W-phase winding Lw of the motor 170. The AC voltage supplied to the V-phase winding Lv of the motor 170 has a phase difference of 120 degrees with respect to the AC voltage supplied to the U-phase winding Lu. Also, the AC voltage supplied to the W-phase winding Lw of the motor 170 has a phase difference of 120 degrees with respect to the AC voltage supplied to the V-phase winding Lv.
Thus, only the supply of AC voltages from the three-phase AC power source 190 to the motor 170 causes a rotating magnetic field to be generated in the stator 172, and the rotor 171 rotates following the rotating magnetic field. As a result, the compressor 200 is operated at a constant rotation rate (power source frequency). Thus, the operation circuit of the motor 170 does not require the activation circuit 20 according to the foregoing embodiment, and only a relay circuit of the connection unit 130 is used.
In the air conditioner 1 that uses a refrigerant mixture containing at least 1,2-difluoroethylene, the compressor 200 can be driven without interposing a power conversion device between the three-phase AC power source 190 and the motor 170. Thus, it is possible to provide the air conditioner 1 that is environmentally friendly and has a relatively inexpensive configuration.
The motor 170 is an induction motor and is capable of high output with relatively low cost, and thus the efficiency of the air conditioner 1 can be increased.
An embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above. It is to be understood that various changes of the embodiment and details are possible without deviating from the gist and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims.
PTL 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-124848
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017-242183 | Dec 2017 | JP | national |
| 2017-242185 | Dec 2017 | JP | national |
| 2017-242186 | Dec 2017 | JP | national |
| 2017-242187 | Dec 2017 | JP | national |
| PCT/JP2018/037483 | Oct 2018 | JP | national |
| PCT/JP2018/038746 | Oct 2018 | JP | national |
| PCT/JP2018/038747 | Oct 2018 | JP | national |
| PCT/JP2018/038748 | Oct 2018 | JP | national |
| PCT/JP2018/038749 | Oct 2018 | JP | national |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16913454 | Jun 2020 | US |
| Child | 18078559 | US | |
| Parent | 16772961 | Jun 2020 | US |
| Child | 16913454 | US |
