WO2022112341A1 - Scroll compressor with discharge check valve - Google Patents

Scroll compressor with discharge check valve Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022112341A1
WO2022112341A1 PCT/EP2021/082843 EP2021082843W WO2022112341A1 WO 2022112341 A1 WO2022112341 A1 WO 2022112341A1 EP 2021082843 W EP2021082843 W EP 2021082843W WO 2022112341 A1 WO2022112341 A1 WO 2022112341A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
valve
discharge check
tubular
check valve
valve member
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2021/082843
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Julien Lavy
David Genevois
Remi BOU DARGHAM
Gabriel Streda
Original Assignee
Danfoss Commercial Compressors
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Danfoss Commercial Compressors filed Critical Danfoss Commercial Compressors
Publication of WO2022112341A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022112341A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
    • H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
    • H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
    • H02S20/22—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object specially adapted for buildings
    • H02S20/26—Building materials integrated with PV modules, e.g. façade elements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
    • F16K15/00—Check valves
    • F16K15/02—Check valves with guided rigid valve members
    • F16K15/06—Check valves with guided rigid valve members with guided stems
    • F16K15/063—Check valves with guided rigid valve members with guided stems the valve being loaded by a spring
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B39/00—Component parts, details, or accessories, of pumps or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids, not otherwise provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F04B25/00 - F04B37/00
    • F04B39/10—Adaptations or arrangements of distribution members
    • F04B39/1013—Adaptations or arrangements of distribution members the members being of the poppet valve type
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04C18/00—Rotary-piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids
    • F04C18/02—Rotary-piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids of arcuate-engagement type, i.e. with circular translatory movement of co-operating members, each member having the same number of teeth or tooth-equivalents
    • F04C18/0207—Rotary-piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids of arcuate-engagement type, i.e. with circular translatory movement of co-operating members, each member having the same number of teeth or tooth-equivalents both members having co-operating elements in spiral form
    • F04C18/0215—Rotary-piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids of arcuate-engagement type, i.e. with circular translatory movement of co-operating members, each member having the same number of teeth or tooth-equivalents both members having co-operating elements in spiral form where only one member is moving
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04C23/00—Combinations of two or more pumps, each being of rotary-piston or oscillating-piston type, specially adapted for elastic fluids; Pumping installations specially adapted for elastic fluids; Multi-stage pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids
    • F04C23/008—Hermetic pumps
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04C—ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; ROTARY-PISTON, OR OSCILLATING-PISTON, POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
    • F04C29/00—Component parts, details or accessories of pumps or pumping installations, not provided for in groups F04C18/00 - F04C28/00
    • F04C29/12—Arrangements for admission or discharge of the working fluid, e.g. constructional features of the inlet or outlet
    • F04C29/124—Arrangements for admission or discharge of the working fluid, e.g. constructional features of the inlet or outlet with inlet and outlet valves specially adapted for rotary or oscillating piston pumps
    • F04C29/126—Arrangements for admission or discharge of the working fluid, e.g. constructional features of the inlet or outlet with inlet and outlet valves specially adapted for rotary or oscillating piston pumps of the non-return type
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
    • Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an improved discharge check valve assembly configured to be arranged in a discharge outlet of a scroll compressor.
  • a discharge check valve assembly allows a flow of compressed refrigerant gas out of the scroll compressor into the tubing of a connected refrigerant system, when the scroll compressor is operating.
  • a valve member of the discharge check valve assembly closes and prevents backflow of refrigerant from the refrigerant system into the scroll compressor. Further, the presence of such a discharge check valve assembly provides a protection against reverse rotation of the stopped scroll compressor.
  • US 7,721 ,757 B2 discloses a scroll compressor having a discharge check valve assembly fixed to an upper cap of the scroll compressor.
  • the discharge check valve assembly comprises a valve housing secured to the compressor shell at a discharge outlet, and a spring loaded valve member arranged within the valve housing and guided in a valve body.
  • the valve member When the scroll compressor is stopped, the valve member abuts a valve seat formed in the valve housing, and prevents backflow of refrigerant into the scroll compressor.
  • the valve member When the scroll compressor is operating, the valve member abuts a stop surface of the valve body and allows a flow of compressed refrigerant gas out of the scroll compressor.
  • US 2,771 ,091 shows a similar check valve assembly provided with a sealing element clamped between a conical valve head and a retainer disc.
  • Such a discharge check valve assembly includes:
  • tubular valve housing configured to be inserted in a discharge outlet of the compressor shell and to be hermetically secured to the discharge outlet, the tubular valve housing having a first end portion configured to be arranged inside the compressor shell and a second end portion configured to be arranged outside the compressor shell and to be connected to a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system,
  • valve member movable between a closed position in which the valve member bears against the valve seat and an open position in which the valve member is remote from the valve seat
  • valve body arranged within the tubular valve housing and comprising a ring- shaped attachment portion fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing, the valve body further comprising a guiding portion which is configured to guide the valve member between the closed and open positions and which is connected to the ring-shaped attachment portion by at least two connecting arms protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion, the outer surface of the guiding portion having a cross-section which tapers, for example conically, towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing and away from the valve seat.
  • Such a configuration of the outer surface of the guiding portion significantly reduces swirling and turbulences generated on the backside of the valve member when the valve member is in the open position, and thereby significantly reduces pressure losses through the discharge check valve assembly, which significantly improves the efficiency and the performance of a scroll compressor including a discharge check valve assembly according to the present invention.
  • the discharge check valve assembly may also include one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination.
  • the cross-section of the outersurface of the guiding portion is substantially circular.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion is defined by a surface of revolution.
  • the surface of revolution is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the tubular valve housing.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion has an aerodynamic shape.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion has a cross-section comprising a first diameter at a first end of the guiding portion facing towards the first end portion of the tubular valve housing and a second diameter at a second end of the guiding portion facing towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing, the first diameter being greater than the second diameter.
  • the discharge check valve assembly is configured to prevent backflow of refrigerant from a high pressure side of the refrigerant system into the compressor shell, and particularly into a discharge chamber of the scroll compressor.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion having a cross-section which tapers from a first end of the guiding portion facing towards the first end portion of the tubular valve housing to a second end of the guiding portion facing towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion is substantially conical orfrusto-conical.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion has an ogive shape.
  • the guiding portion is located opposite the valve seat relative to the valve member.
  • the first end portion of the tubular valve housing is configured to be arranged inside a discharge chamber at least partially defined by the compressor shell.
  • the tubular valve housing and the valve body are coaxially arranged.
  • valve body and the valve member are coaxially arranged.
  • the valve body is made in one piece.
  • the valve member is arranged within the tubular valve housing.
  • the second end portion of the tubular valve housing acts as a fitting to connect an external tubing for example of the refrigerant system.
  • the ring-shaped attachment portion is snapped, press-fitted, glued or secured by a retaining element to the inner surface of the tubular valve housing.
  • the guiding portion is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion of the tubular valve housing towards an outer periphery of the valve member.
  • the valve body includes a first axial stop surface and the valve member includes a second axial stop surface configured to abut against the first axial stop surface when the valve member is in the open position.
  • the guiding portion includes the first axial stop surface.
  • the valve member comprises a valve stem portion, the guiding portion including a central bore configured to accommodate and guide the valve stem portion of the valve member.
  • valve stem portion is slidably mounted in the central bore.
  • valve stem portion and the guiding portion are coaxially arranged.
  • the discharge check valve assembly further comprises a biasing element at least partially arranged within the central bore of the guiding portion and configured to bias the valve member towards the closed position and in a direction away from the valve body.
  • the valve stem portion comprises an internal bore accommodating a portion of the biasing element.
  • the central bore of the guiding portion extends all the way through the guiding portion, the valve stem portion protruding from the guiding portion when the valve member is in the open position.
  • the valve stem portion protrudes from the ring-shaped attachment portion when the valve member is in the open position.
  • the valve member further comprises a valve head portion which is formed at an end of the valve stem portion facing away from the valve body and which is configured to cooperate with the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
  • the guiding portion is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion of the tubular valve housing towards an outer periphery of the valve head portion.
  • the valve head portion includes an annular space surrounding the valve stem portion, the annular space emerging in an end face of the valve head portion oriented towards the guiding portion.
  • the valve head portion has an outer surface having a cross-section which tapers in a direction away from the guiding portion.
  • the outer surface of the valve head portion is substantially conical or a frusto-conical.
  • the valve head portion includes the second axial stop surface.
  • the first and second axial stop surfaces which abut each other when the valve member is in the open position, are formed adjacent to radial outer edges of the guiding portion and the valve head portion.
  • the valve member is made as a unitary valve member.
  • the valve head portion comprises an annular groove accommodating a sealing element which is configured to abut the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
  • the annular groove is located near an outer radial edge of the valve head portion.
  • the sealing element is annular.
  • the guiding portion includes an annular chamber surrounding the valve stem portion and the central bore, the annular chamber emerging in an end face of the guiding portion oriented towards the valve head portion.
  • the annular chamber is facing the annular space.
  • the valve head portion comprises a plate portion extending perpendicular to the valve stem portion, a disc-shaped sealing member arranged on the plate portion and a valve head retaining the disc-shaped sealing member on the plate portion.
  • the valve head has a dome shape.
  • the plate portion includes the second axial stop surface.
  • the disc-shaped sealing member and the valve head respectively include a first central passage and a second central passage, the valve member including an alignment portion protruding from the plate portion and cooperating with the first and second central passages.
  • valve stem portion, the plate portion and the alignment portion of the valve member are formed as an integral part.
  • the disc-shaped sealing member has a ring-shaped sealing surface which is exposed and which configured to abut the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
  • the plate portion has a disc shape.
  • the valve head has an outer diameter which is smaller than the outer diameters of the disc-shaped sealing member and of the plate portion such that the ring-shaped sealing surface of the disc-shaped sealing member is exposed.
  • the disc-shaped sealing member is made of PTFE (or silicone) coated glass fabrics.
  • the tubular valve housing includes an inlet opening configured to be fluidly connected to a discharge chamber of a compressor, and an outlet opening configured to be fluidly connected to a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system.
  • a refrigerant system such as a refrigeration or cooling system.
  • the valve seat extends around the inlet opening.
  • the slightly inwardly tapering surface portion is located at the inlet opening. This further contributes to the smooth flow entering in the tubular valve housing and reduce pressure drop.
  • the valve seat is formed at the inner surface of the tubular valve housing.
  • the valve seat is located near a first end of the tubular valve housing provided on the first end portion.
  • the inner surface of the tubular valve housing includes an inwardly tapering surface portion extending between the first end portion of the tubular valve housing and the valve seat. This further contributes to the smooth flow around the valve member and reduced pressure drop.
  • the inwardly tapering surface portion extends from the first end of the tubular valve housing and towards the valve seat.
  • the valve body, the valve member and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing delimit, when the valve member is in the open position, a flow path for a compressed refrigerant gas, the flow path having a ring-shaped cross section.
  • valve body and the valve member form an egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure when the valve member is in the open position.
  • the guiding portion and the valve member form the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure when the valve member is in the open position
  • the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure exhibits an aerodynamically shape.
  • the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing delimit the flow path.
  • the inner shape of the tubular valve housing is adapted the outer shape of the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure to form a flow path with low level of swirling and turbulences, and thereby to significantly reduce pressure losses.
  • the present invention also relates to a scroll compressor comprising a compressor shell having a discharge outlet, and a discharge check valve assembly according to the invention, wherein the tubular valve housing is inserted in the discharge outlet and is hermetically secured thereto, and the first end portion of the tubular valve housing is arranged inside the compressor shell.
  • Figure 1 is a longitudinal section view of a scroll compressor according to a first embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 1 showing a discharge check valve assembly in a closed position.
  • FIG 3 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 1 showing the discharge check valve assembly in an open position.
  • FIG 4 is a partial perspective view of the discharge check valve assembly of figure 2.
  • Figure 5 is a partial longitudinal section view of a scroll compressor according to a second embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of a discharge check valve assembly of the scroll compressor of figure 5.
  • FIG 7 Figure 7 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 5 showing the discharge check valve assembly in a closed position.
  • Figure 8 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 5 showing the discharge check valve assembly in an open position.
  • Figure 1 describes a scroll compressor 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention occupying a vertical position.
  • the scroll compressor 1 includes a compressor shell 2 provided with a suction inlet 3 configured to supply the scroll compressor 1 with refrigerant to be compressed, and with a discharge outlet 4 configured to discharge compressed refrigerant.
  • the discharge outlet 4 is advantageously provided on an upper cap of the compressor shell 2.
  • the scroll compressor 1 further includes a support arrangement 5 fixed to the compressor shell 2, and a compression unit 6 disposed inside the compressor shell 2 and supported by the support arrangement 5.
  • the compression unit 6 is configured to compress the refrigerant supplied by the suction inlet 3.
  • the compression unit 6 includes a fixed scroll 7, which is fixed in relation to the compressor shell 2, and an orbiting scroll 8 supported by and in slidable contact with a thrust bearing surface 9 provided on the support arrangement 5.
  • the fixed scroll 7 includes a fixed base plate 11 having a lower face oriented towards the orbiting scroll 8, and an upper face opposite to the lower face of the fixed base plate 11 .
  • the fixed scroll 7 also includes a fixed spiral wrap 12 projecting from the lower face of the fixed base plate 11 towards the orbiting scroll 8.
  • the orbiting scroll 8 includes an orbiting base plate 13 having an upper face oriented towards the fixed scroll 7, and a lower face opposite to the upper face of the orbiting base plate 13 and slidably mounted on the thrust bearing surface 9.
  • the orbiting scroll 8 also includes an orbiting spiral wrap 14 projecting from the upper face of the orbiting base plate 13 towards the fixed scroll 7.
  • the orbiting spiral wrap 14 of the orbiting scroll 8 meshes with the fixed spiral wrap 12 of the fixed scroll 7 to form a plurality of compression chambers 15 between them.
  • Each of the compression chambers 15 has a variable volume which decreases from the outside towards the inside, when the orbiting scroll 8 is driven to orbit relative to the fixed scroll 7.
  • the scroll compressor 1 includes a drive shaft 16 which extends vertically and which is configured to drive the orbiting scroll 8 in an orbital movement, and an electric driving motor 17, which may be for example a variable-speed electric driving motor, coupled to the drive shaft 16 and configured to drive in rotation the drive shaft 16 about a rotation axis A.
  • an electric driving motor 17 which may be for example a variable-speed electric driving motor, coupled to the drive shaft 16 and configured to drive in rotation the drive shaft 16 about a rotation axis A.
  • the scroll compressor 1 further includes a discharge check valve assembly 18 arranged in the discharge outlet 4 and fluidly connected to a discharge chamber 19 at least partially defined by the compressor shell 2.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 is particularly configured to prevent backflow of refrigerant from a high pressure side of a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system, into the discharge chamber 19 and into the compression chambers 15.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 includes a tubular valve housing 21 inserted in the discharge outlet 4 of the compressor shell 2 and hermetically secured to the discharge outlet 4.
  • the tubular valve housing 21 has a first end portion 21 .1 arranged inside the discharge chamber 19 and provided with an inlet opening 22 emerging into the discharge chamber 19, and a second end portion 21.2 arranged outside the compressor shell 2 and provided with an outlet opening 23 configured to be fluidly connected to the refrigerant system.
  • the second end portion 21.2 of the tubular valve housing 21 acts as a fitting to connect an external tubing of the refrigerant system.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 further includes a valve seat 24 located within the tubular valve housing 21 and formed at the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 .
  • the valve seat 24 is annular and extends around the inlet opening 22.
  • the valve seat 24 is located near a first end of the tubular valve housing 21 provided on the first end portion 21.1.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 also includes a valve member 25 arranged within the tubular valve housing 21 and movable between a closed position (see figure
  • valve member 25 is remote from the valve seat 24.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 includes a valve body 26 made in one piece and arranged within the tubular valve housing 21 coaxially to the valve member 25.
  • the valve body 26 comprises a ring-shaped attachment portion 27 fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21.
  • the ring-shaped attachment portion 27 may be snapped, press-fitted, glued or secured by a retaining element to the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 .
  • the valve body 26 further comprises a guiding portion 28 which is located opposite the valve seat 24 relative to the valve member 25 and which is connected to the ring-shaped attachment portion 27 by several connecting arms 29 protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion 28 and distributed around the longitudinal axis B of the tubular valve housing 21.
  • the guiding portion 28 is particularly configured to guide the valve member 25 between the closed and open positions.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 has a cross-section which is circular and which tapers from a first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28 facing towards the first end portion 21 .1 of the tubular valve housing 21 to a second end face 28.2 of the guiding portion 28 facing towards the second end portion 21.2 of the tubular valve housing 21.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 may be substantially conical or frusto-conical. According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 has an ogive shape.
  • valve member 25 comprises a valve stem portion 31 slidably mounted in a central bore 32 provided on the guiding portion 28.
  • the valve stem portion 31 and the guiding portion 28 extend coaxially to the longitudinal axis B of the tubular valve housing 21.
  • the valve member 25 further comprises a valve head portion 33 which is formed at an end of the valve stem portion 31 facing away from the valve body 26 and which is configured to cooperate with the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position.
  • the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion 21 .2 of the tubular valve housing 21 towards an outer periphery of the valve head portion 33.
  • the valve head portion 33 has a conical outer surface which tapers in a direction away from the guiding portion 28, and the valve member 25 is made as a unitary valve member.
  • the valve head portion 33 may have for example a dome shape, and may be distinct from the valve stem portion 31 and secured to the valve stem portion 31 .
  • the valve head portion 33 comprises an annular groove 34 accommodating a sealing element 35 which is annular and which is configured to abut the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position.
  • the annular groove 34 is located near an outer radial edge of the valve head portion 33 and the sealing element 35 is formed by an O-ring.
  • the discharge check valve assembly 18 further comprises a biasing element 36, such as a spring element, partially arranged within the central bore 32 of the guiding portion 28 and configured to bias the valve member 25 towards the closed position, i.e. in a direction away from the valve body 26.
  • a biasing element 36 such as a spring element
  • the valve stem portion 31 comprises an internal bore 37 accommodating a portion of the biasing element 36.
  • the guiding portion 28 includes a first axial stop surface 38 located at the first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28, and the valve head portion 33 includes a second axial stop surface 39 configured to abut against the first axial stop surface 38 when the valve member 25 is in the open position.
  • the guiding portion 28 and the valve member 25 form an egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 when the valve member 25 is in the open position.
  • the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 exhibits an aerodynamically shape.
  • the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 delimit a flow path 42 for a compressed refrigerant gas.
  • the flow path 42 has a ring-shaped cross section, and the inner shape of the tubular valve housing 21 is adapted the outer shape of the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 such that the flow path 42 generates a low level of swirling and turbulences, and thereby allows to significantly reduce pressure losses when said compressed refrigerant gas flows through the tubular valve housing 21 from the inlet opening 22 to the outlet opening 23.
  • the valve head portion 33 includes an annular space 43 surrounding the valve stem portion 31 and emerging in an end face of the valve head portion 33 oriented towards the guiding portion 28, and the guiding portion 28 includes an annular chamber 44 surrounding the valve stem portion 31 and the central bore 32 and emerging in the first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28.
  • the annular chamber 44 is facing the annular space 43.
  • the orbiting scroll 8 When the scroll compressor 1 according to the invention is turned on, the orbiting scroll 8 is driven by the drive shaft 16 following an orbital movement, this movement of the orbiting scroll 8 causing an intake and compression of refrigerant in the compression chambers 15.
  • the compressed refrigerant exits toward the discharge chamber 19 via a discharge conduit 45 formed in the central portion of the fixed scroll 7, flows into the discharge chamber 19 and through the inlet opening 22 of the tubular valve housing 21 , moves the valve member 25 into the open position against the biasing force exerted by the biasing element 36, and then flows through the flow path 42 and the outlet opening 23 of the tubular valve housing 21.
  • the biasing element 36 biases the valve member 25 toward the closed position, which prevents high- pressure refrigerant from returning to the discharge chamber 19.
  • Figures 5 to 8 represent a scroll compressor 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention which differs from the first embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4 essentially in that the valve head portion 33 comprises a plate portion 46 having a disc shape and extending perpendicular to the valve stem portion 31 , a disc-shaped sealing member 47 arranged on the plate portion 46 and a valve head 48 having a dome shape and retaining the disc-shaped sealing member 47 on the plate portion 46.
  • the plate portion 46 includes the second axial stop surface 39
  • the disc-shaped sealing member 47 is made of PTFE (or silicone) coated glass fabrics.
  • the disc-shaped sealing member 47 and the valve head 48 respectively include a first central passage 49 and a second central passage 51
  • the valve member 25 includes an alignment portion 52 protruding from the plate portion 46 and cooperating with the first and second central passages 49, 51.
  • the valve stem portion 31 and the alignment portion 52 of the valve member 25 are formed as an integral part, and the plate portion 46 is distinct from the valve member 25 and is supported by the alignment portion 52.
  • the valve stem portion 31 , the plate portion 46 and the alignment portion 52 of the valve member 25 may be formed as an integral part
  • the valve head 48 has an outer diameter which is smaller than the outer diameters of the disc-shaped sealing member 47 and of the plate portion 46 such that a ring-shaped sealing surface 53 of the disc-shaped sealing member 47 is exposed.
  • the ring-shaped sealing surface 53 is particularly configured to abut the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position.
  • the central bore 32 of the guiding portion 28 extends all the way through the guiding portion 28, and the valve stem portion 31 protrudes from the guiding portion 28 and the ring-shaped attachment portion 27 when the valve member 25 is in the open position.
  • the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 includes a slightly inwardly tapering surface portion 54 delimiting the inlet opening 22 and extending from the first end of the tubular valve housing 21 and towards the valve seat 24.
  • the presence of the slightly inwardly tapering surface portion 54 further contributes to the smooth flow around the valve member 25 and reduced pressure drop.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Check Valves (AREA)
  • Applications Or Details Of Rotary Compressors (AREA)
  • Rotary Pumps (AREA)

Abstract

Discharge check valve assembly (18) including a tubular valve housing (21) having a first end portion (21.1) configured to be arranged inside a compressor shell (2) and a second end portion (21.2) configured to be arranged outside the compressor shell (2); a valve seat (24) located within the tubular valve housing (21); a valve member (25) movable between a closed position in which the valve member (25) bears against the valve seat (24) and an open position in which the valve member (25) is remote from the valve seat (24); and a valve body (26) arranged within the tubular valve housing (21) and comprising a ring-shaped attachment portion (27) fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing (21), the valve body (26) further comprising a guiding portion (28) which is configured to guide the valve member (25) between the closed and open positions and which is connected to the ring-shaped attachment portion (27) by at least two connecting arms (29) protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion (28), the outer surface of the guiding portion (28) having a cross-section which tapers towards the second end portion (21.2) of the tubular valve housing (21) and away from the valve seat (24).

Description

DESCRIPTION
A DISCHARGE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY FOR A SCROLL COMPRESSOR, AND A SCROLL COMPRESSOR INCLUDING SUCH A DISCHARGE CHECK VALVE ASSEMBLY
Field of the invention
The invention relates to an improved discharge check valve assembly configured to be arranged in a discharge outlet of a scroll compressor. Such a discharge check valve assembly allows a flow of compressed refrigerant gas out of the scroll compressor into the tubing of a connected refrigerant system, when the scroll compressor is operating. At stop of the scroll compressor, a valve member of the discharge check valve assembly closes and prevents backflow of refrigerant from the refrigerant system into the scroll compressor. Further, the presence of such a discharge check valve assembly provides a protection against reverse rotation of the stopped scroll compressor.
Background of the invention
US 7,721 ,757 B2 discloses a scroll compressor having a discharge check valve assembly fixed to an upper cap of the scroll compressor. The discharge check valve assembly comprises a valve housing secured to the compressor shell at a discharge outlet, and a spring loaded valve member arranged within the valve housing and guided in a valve body. When the scroll compressor is stopped, the valve member abuts a valve seat formed in the valve housing, and prevents backflow of refrigerant into the scroll compressor. When the scroll compressor is operating, the valve member abuts a stop surface of the valve body and allows a flow of compressed refrigerant gas out of the scroll compressor.
US 2,771 ,091 shows a similar check valve assembly provided with a sealing element clamped between a conical valve head and a retainer disc.
Both of these designs show relatively high pressure losses, e.g. due to swirling on the backside of the valve member when the valve member is in the open position.
While this is acceptable when using known high density refrigerants, e.g. R410A, efficiency of the scroll compressor is reduced when using new low density and low GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants, e.g. R1234ze, where a much higher volume flow is required to achieve a similar cooling capacity.
Summary of the invention It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved discharge check valve assembly for a scroll compressor, which can overcome the drawbacks encountered in conventional scroll compressors. Another object of the present invention is to provide a discharge check valve assembly for a scroll compressor allowing to substantially reduce the pressure drop in the refrigerant when the latter flows through the discharge check valve assembly, particularly when low density refrigerants are used, and therefore to improve the performance and the efficiency of the scroll compressor. According to the invention such a discharge check valve assembly includes:
- a tubular valve housing configured to be inserted in a discharge outlet of the compressor shell and to be hermetically secured to the discharge outlet, the tubular valve housing having a first end portion configured to be arranged inside the compressor shell and a second end portion configured to be arranged outside the compressor shell and to be connected to a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system,
- a valve seat located within the tubular valve housing,
- a valve member movable between a closed position in which the valve member bears against the valve seat and an open position in which the valve member is remote from the valve seat, and - a valve body arranged within the tubular valve housing and comprising a ring- shaped attachment portion fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing, the valve body further comprising a guiding portion which is configured to guide the valve member between the closed and open positions and which is connected to the ring-shaped attachment portion by at least two connecting arms protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion, the outer surface of the guiding portion having a cross-section which tapers, for example conically, towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing and away from the valve seat.
Such a configuration of the outer surface of the guiding portion significantly reduces swirling and turbulences generated on the backside of the valve member when the valve member is in the open position, and thereby significantly reduces pressure losses through the discharge check valve assembly, which significantly improves the efficiency and the performance of a scroll compressor including a discharge check valve assembly according to the present invention.
The discharge check valve assembly may also include one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination. According to an embodiment of the invention, the cross-section of the outersurface of the guiding portion is substantially circular. According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion is defined by a surface of revolution. Advantageously, the surface of revolution is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the tubular valve housing.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion has an aerodynamic shape.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion has a cross-section comprising a first diameter at a first end of the guiding portion facing towards the first end portion of the tubular valve housing and a second diameter at a second end of the guiding portion facing towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing, the first diameter being greater than the second diameter.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the discharge check valve assembly is configured to prevent backflow of refrigerant from a high pressure side of the refrigerant system into the compressor shell, and particularly into a discharge chamber of the scroll compressor.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion having a cross-section which tapers from a first end of the guiding portion facing towards the first end portion of the tubular valve housing to a second end of the guiding portion facing towards the second end portion of the tubular valve housing.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion is substantially conical orfrusto-conical.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the outer surface of the guiding portion has an ogive shape.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion is located opposite the valve seat relative to the valve member.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the first end portion of the tubular valve housing is configured to be arranged inside a discharge chamber at least partially defined by the compressor shell.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the tubular valve housing and the valve body are coaxially arranged.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve body and the valve member are coaxially arranged.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve body is made in one piece.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve member is arranged within the tubular valve housing.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the second end portion of the tubular valve housing acts as a fitting to connect an external tubing for example of the refrigerant system. According to an embodiment of the invention, the ring-shaped attachment portion is snapped, press-fitted, glued or secured by a retaining element to the inner surface of the tubular valve housing.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion of the tubular valve housing towards an outer periphery of the valve member.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve body includes a first axial stop surface and the valve member includes a second axial stop surface configured to abut against the first axial stop surface when the valve member is in the open position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion includes the first axial stop surface.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve member comprises a valve stem portion, the guiding portion including a central bore configured to accommodate and guide the valve stem portion of the valve member.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion is slidably mounted in the central bore.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion and the guiding portion are coaxially arranged.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the discharge check valve assembly further comprises a biasing element at least partially arranged within the central bore of the guiding portion and configured to bias the valve member towards the closed position and in a direction away from the valve body.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion comprises an internal bore accommodating a portion of the biasing element.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the central bore of the guiding portion extends all the way through the guiding portion, the valve stem portion protruding from the guiding portion when the valve member is in the open position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion protrudes from the ring-shaped attachment portion when the valve member is in the open position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve member further comprises a valve head portion which is formed at an end of the valve stem portion facing away from the valve body and which is configured to cooperate with the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion of the tubular valve housing towards an outer periphery of the valve head portion. According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion includes an annular space surrounding the valve stem portion, the annular space emerging in an end face of the valve head portion oriented towards the guiding portion.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion has an outer surface having a cross-section which tapers in a direction away from the guiding portion. For example, the outer surface of the valve head portion is substantially conical or a frusto-conical.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion includes the second axial stop surface.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the first and second axial stop surfaces, which abut each other when the valve member is in the open position, are formed adjacent to radial outer edges of the guiding portion and the valve head portion.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve member is made as a unitary valve member.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion comprises an annular groove accommodating a sealing element which is configured to abut the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the annular groove is located near an outer radial edge of the valve head portion.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the sealing element is annular.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion includes an annular chamber surrounding the valve stem portion and the central bore, the annular chamber emerging in an end face of the guiding portion oriented towards the valve head portion. Advantageously, the annular chamber is facing the annular space.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion comprises a plate portion extending perpendicular to the valve stem portion, a disc-shaped sealing member arranged on the plate portion and a valve head retaining the disc-shaped sealing member on the plate portion.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head has a dome shape.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the plate portion includes the second axial stop surface.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the disc-shaped sealing member and the valve head respectively include a first central passage and a second central passage, the valve member including an alignment portion protruding from the plate portion and cooperating with the first and second central passages.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion, the plate portion and the alignment portion of the valve member are formed as an integral part. According to an embodiment of the invention, the disc-shaped sealing member has a ring-shaped sealing surface which is exposed and which configured to abut the valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the plate portion has a disc shape.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve head has an outer diameter which is smaller than the outer diameters of the disc-shaped sealing member and of the plate portion such that the ring-shaped sealing surface of the disc-shaped sealing member is exposed.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the disc-shaped sealing member is made of PTFE (or silicone) coated glass fabrics.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the tubular valve housing includes an inlet opening configured to be fluidly connected to a discharge chamber of a compressor, and an outlet opening configured to be fluidly connected to a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system. Advantageously, the valve seat extends around the inlet opening.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the slightly inwardly tapering surface portion is located at the inlet opening. This further contributes to the smooth flow entering in the tubular valve housing and reduce pressure drop.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve seat is formed at the inner surface of the tubular valve housing. Advantageously, the valve seat is located near a first end of the tubular valve housing provided on the first end portion.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the inner surface of the tubular valve housing includes an inwardly tapering surface portion extending between the first end portion of the tubular valve housing and the valve seat. This further contributes to the smooth flow around the valve member and reduced pressure drop.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the inwardly tapering surface portion extends from the first end of the tubular valve housing and towards the valve seat.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve body, the valve member and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing delimit, when the valve member is in the open position, a flow path for a compressed refrigerant gas, the flow path having a ring-shaped cross section.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the valve body and the valve member form an egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure when the valve member is in the open position.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the guiding portion and the valve member form the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure when the valve member is in the open position According to an embodiment of the invention, the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure exhibits an aerodynamically shape.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing delimit the flow path.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the inner shape of the tubular valve housing is adapted the outer shape of the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure to form a flow path with low level of swirling and turbulences, and thereby to significantly reduce pressure losses.
The present invention also relates to a scroll compressor comprising a compressor shell having a discharge outlet, and a discharge check valve assembly according to the invention, wherein the tubular valve housing is inserted in the discharge outlet and is hermetically secured thereto, and the first end portion of the tubular valve housing is arranged inside the compressor shell.
These and other advantages will become apparent upon reading the following description in view of the drawing attached hereto representing, as non-limiting examples, embodiments of a scroll compressor according to the invention.
Brief description of the drawings
The following detailed description of two embodiments of the invention is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings being understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed.
[Fig 1] Figure 1 is a longitudinal section view of a scroll compressor according to a first embodiment of the invention.
[Fig 2] Figure 2 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 1 showing a discharge check valve assembly in a closed position.
[Fig 3] Figure 3 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 1 showing the discharge check valve assembly in an open position.
[Fig 4] Figure 4 is a partial perspective view of the discharge check valve assembly of figure 2.
[Fig 5] Figure 5 is a partial longitudinal section view of a scroll compressor according to a second embodiment of the invention.
[Fig 6] Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of a discharge check valve assembly of the scroll compressor of figure 5.
[Fig 7] Figure 7 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 5 showing the discharge check valve assembly in a closed position. [Fig 8] Figure 8 is a partial longitudinal section view of the scroll compressor of figure 5 showing the discharge check valve assembly in an open position.
Detailed description of the invention
Figure 1 describes a scroll compressor 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention occupying a vertical position.
The scroll compressor 1 includes a compressor shell 2 provided with a suction inlet 3 configured to supply the scroll compressor 1 with refrigerant to be compressed, and with a discharge outlet 4 configured to discharge compressed refrigerant. The discharge outlet 4 is advantageously provided on an upper cap of the compressor shell 2.
The scroll compressor 1 further includes a support arrangement 5 fixed to the compressor shell 2, and a compression unit 6 disposed inside the compressor shell 2 and supported by the support arrangement 5. The compression unit 6 is configured to compress the refrigerant supplied by the suction inlet 3. The compression unit 6 includes a fixed scroll 7, which is fixed in relation to the compressor shell 2, and an orbiting scroll 8 supported by and in slidable contact with a thrust bearing surface 9 provided on the support arrangement 5.
The fixed scroll 7 includes a fixed base plate 11 having a lower face oriented towards the orbiting scroll 8, and an upper face opposite to the lower face of the fixed base plate 11 . The fixed scroll 7 also includes a fixed spiral wrap 12 projecting from the lower face of the fixed base plate 11 towards the orbiting scroll 8.
The orbiting scroll 8 includes an orbiting base plate 13 having an upper face oriented towards the fixed scroll 7, and a lower face opposite to the upper face of the orbiting base plate 13 and slidably mounted on the thrust bearing surface 9. The orbiting scroll 8 also includes an orbiting spiral wrap 14 projecting from the upper face of the orbiting base plate 13 towards the fixed scroll 7. The orbiting spiral wrap 14 of the orbiting scroll 8 meshes with the fixed spiral wrap 12 of the fixed scroll 7 to form a plurality of compression chambers 15 between them. Each of the compression chambers 15 has a variable volume which decreases from the outside towards the inside, when the orbiting scroll 8 is driven to orbit relative to the fixed scroll 7.
Furthermore, the scroll compressor 1 includes a drive shaft 16 which extends vertically and which is configured to drive the orbiting scroll 8 in an orbital movement, and an electric driving motor 17, which may be for example a variable-speed electric driving motor, coupled to the drive shaft 16 and configured to drive in rotation the drive shaft 16 about a rotation axis A.
The scroll compressor 1 further includes a discharge check valve assembly 18 arranged in the discharge outlet 4 and fluidly connected to a discharge chamber 19 at least partially defined by the compressor shell 2. The discharge check valve assembly 18 is particularly configured to prevent backflow of refrigerant from a high pressure side of a refrigerant system, such as a refrigeration or cooling system, into the discharge chamber 19 and into the compression chambers 15.
The discharge check valve assembly 18 includes a tubular valve housing 21 inserted in the discharge outlet 4 of the compressor shell 2 and hermetically secured to the discharge outlet 4. The tubular valve housing 21 has a first end portion 21 .1 arranged inside the discharge chamber 19 and provided with an inlet opening 22 emerging into the discharge chamber 19, and a second end portion 21.2 arranged outside the compressor shell 2 and provided with an outlet opening 23 configured to be fluidly connected to the refrigerant system. According to the embodiment shown on the figures 1 to 4, the second end portion 21.2 of the tubular valve housing 21 acts as a fitting to connect an external tubing of the refrigerant system.
The discharge check valve assembly 18 further includes a valve seat 24 located within the tubular valve housing 21 and formed at the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 . The valve seat 24 is annular and extends around the inlet opening 22. Advantageously, the valve seat 24 is located near a first end of the tubular valve housing 21 provided on the first end portion 21.1.
The discharge check valve assembly 18 also includes a valve member 25 arranged within the tubular valve housing 21 and movable between a closed position (see figure
2) in which the valve member 25 bears against the valve seat 24 and an open position (see figure
3) in which the valve member 25 is remote from the valve seat 24.
Furthermore, the discharge check valve assembly 18 includes a valve body 26 made in one piece and arranged within the tubular valve housing 21 coaxially to the valve member 25.
The valve body 26 comprises a ring-shaped attachment portion 27 fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21. The ring-shaped attachment portion 27 may be snapped, press-fitted, glued or secured by a retaining element to the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 .
The valve body 26 further comprises a guiding portion 28 which is located opposite the valve seat 24 relative to the valve member 25 and which is connected to the ring-shaped attachment portion 27 by several connecting arms 29 protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion 28 and distributed around the longitudinal axis B of the tubular valve housing 21. The guiding portion 28 is particularly configured to guide the valve member 25 between the closed and open positions.
The outer surface of the guiding portion 28 has a cross-section which is circular and which tapers from a first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28 facing towards the first end portion 21 .1 of the tubular valve housing 21 to a second end face 28.2 of the guiding portion 28 facing towards the second end portion 21.2 of the tubular valve housing 21. The outer surface of the guiding portion 28 may be substantially conical or frusto-conical. According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 has an ogive shape.
As better shown on figures 2 and 3, the valve member 25 comprises a valve stem portion 31 slidably mounted in a central bore 32 provided on the guiding portion 28. Advantageously, the valve stem portion 31 and the guiding portion 28 extend coaxially to the longitudinal axis B of the tubular valve housing 21.
The valve member 25 further comprises a valve head portion 33 which is formed at an end of the valve stem portion 31 facing away from the valve body 26 and which is configured to cooperate with the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position. Advantageously, the outer surface of the guiding portion 28 is configured to orient a compressed refrigerant gas flow coming from the second end portion 21 .2 of the tubular valve housing 21 towards an outer periphery of the valve head portion 33.
According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the valve head portion 33 has a conical outer surface which tapers in a direction away from the guiding portion 28, and the valve member 25 is made as a unitary valve member. However, according to another embodiment of the invention, the valve head portion 33 may have for example a dome shape, and may be distinct from the valve stem portion 31 and secured to the valve stem portion 31 .
According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the valve head portion 33 comprises an annular groove 34 accommodating a sealing element 35 which is annular and which is configured to abut the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position. Advantageously, the annular groove 34 is located near an outer radial edge of the valve head portion 33 and the sealing element 35 is formed by an O-ring.
The discharge check valve assembly 18 further comprises a biasing element 36, such as a spring element, partially arranged within the central bore 32 of the guiding portion 28 and configured to bias the valve member 25 towards the closed position, i.e. in a direction away from the valve body 26. According to the embodiment shown on the figures 1 to 4, the valve stem portion 31 comprises an internal bore 37 accommodating a portion of the biasing element 36.
Advantageously, the guiding portion 28 includes a first axial stop surface 38 located at the first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28, and the valve head portion 33 includes a second axial stop surface 39 configured to abut against the first axial stop surface 38 when the valve member 25 is in the open position.
According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the guiding portion 28 and the valve member 25 form an egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 when the valve member 25 is in the open position. Advantageously, the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 exhibits an aerodynamically shape.
The egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 delimit a flow path 42 for a compressed refrigerant gas. Advantageously, the flow path 42 has a ring-shaped cross section, and the inner shape of the tubular valve housing 21 is adapted the outer shape of the egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure 41 such that the flow path 42 generates a low level of swirling and turbulences, and thereby allows to significantly reduce pressure losses when said compressed refrigerant gas flows through the tubular valve housing 21 from the inlet opening 22 to the outlet opening 23.
According to the embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4, the valve head portion 33 includes an annular space 43 surrounding the valve stem portion 31 and emerging in an end face of the valve head portion 33 oriented towards the guiding portion 28, and the guiding portion 28 includes an annular chamber 44 surrounding the valve stem portion 31 and the central bore 32 and emerging in the first end face 28.1 of the guiding portion 28. Advantageously, the annular chamber 44 is facing the annular space 43.
The operation of the scroll compressor 1 will now be described.
When the scroll compressor 1 according to the invention is turned on, the orbiting scroll 8 is driven by the drive shaft 16 following an orbital movement, this movement of the orbiting scroll 8 causing an intake and compression of refrigerant in the compression chambers 15. The compressed refrigerant exits toward the discharge chamber 19 via a discharge conduit 45 formed in the central portion of the fixed scroll 7, flows into the discharge chamber 19 and through the inlet opening 22 of the tubular valve housing 21 , moves the valve member 25 into the open position against the biasing force exerted by the biasing element 36, and then flows through the flow path 42 and the outlet opening 23 of the tubular valve housing 21.
Due to the configuration of the guiding portion 28 and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 , the swirling and turbulences generated on the backside of the valve member, when the valve member is in the open position, are significantly reduced, and thereby pressure losses through the discharge check valve assembly are significantly reduced, which significantly improves the efficiency and the performance of the scroll compressor 2.
When the scroll compressor 1 according to the invention is stopped, the biasing element 36 biases the valve member 25 toward the closed position, which prevents high- pressure refrigerant from returning to the discharge chamber 19.
Figures 5 to 8 represent a scroll compressor 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention which differs from the first embodiment shown on figures 1 to 4 essentially in that the valve head portion 33 comprises a plate portion 46 having a disc shape and extending perpendicular to the valve stem portion 31 , a disc-shaped sealing member 47 arranged on the plate portion 46 and a valve head 48 having a dome shape and retaining the disc-shaped sealing member 47 on the plate portion 46. Advantageously, the plate portion 46 includes the second axial stop surface 39, and the disc-shaped sealing member 47 is made of PTFE (or silicone) coated glass fabrics.
The disc-shaped sealing member 47 and the valve head 48 respectively include a first central passage 49 and a second central passage 51 , and the valve member 25 includes an alignment portion 52 protruding from the plate portion 46 and cooperating with the first and second central passages 49, 51. According to the embodiment shown on the figures 5 to 8, the valve stem portion 31 and the alignment portion 52 of the valve member 25 are formed as an integral part, and the plate portion 46 is distinct from the valve member 25 and is supported by the alignment portion 52. However, according to another embodiment of the invention, the valve stem portion 31 , the plate portion 46 and the alignment portion 52 of the valve member 25 may be formed as an integral part
The valve head 48 has an outer diameter which is smaller than the outer diameters of the disc-shaped sealing member 47 and of the plate portion 46 such that a ring-shaped sealing surface 53 of the disc-shaped sealing member 47 is exposed. The ring-shaped sealing surface 53 is particularly configured to abut the valve seat 24 when the valve member 25 is in the closed position.
According to said second embodiment of the invention, the central bore 32 of the guiding portion 28 extends all the way through the guiding portion 28, and the valve stem portion 31 protrudes from the guiding portion 28 and the ring-shaped attachment portion 27 when the valve member 25 is in the open position.
According to said second embodiment of the invention, the inner surface of the tubular valve housing 21 includes a slightly inwardly tapering surface portion 54 delimiting the inlet opening 22 and extending from the first end of the tubular valve housing 21 and towards the valve seat 24. The presence of the slightly inwardly tapering surface portion 54 further contributes to the smooth flow around the valve member 25 and reduced pressure drop.
Of course, the invention is not restricted to the embodiments described above by way of non-limiting examples, but on the contrary it encompasses all embodiments thereof.

Claims

1. A discharge check valve assembly (18) for a scroll compressor (1) having a compressor shell (2), the discharge check valve assembly (18) including:
- a tubular valve housing (21) configured to be inserted in a discharge outlet (4) of the compressor shell (2) and to be hermetically secured to the discharge outlet (4), the tubular valve housing (21) having a first end portion (21.1) configured to be arranged inside the compressor shell (2) and a second end portion (21 .2) configured to be arranged outside the compressor shell (2) and to be connected to a refrigerant system,
- a valve seat (24) located within the tubular valve housing (21),
- a valve member (25) movable between a closed position in which the valve member (25) bears against the valve seat (24) and an open position in which the valve member (25) is remote from the valve seat (24), and
- a valve body (26) arranged within the tubular valve housing (21) and comprising a ring-shaped attachment portion (27) fixed to an inner surface of the tubular valve housing (21), the valve body (26) further comprising a guiding portion (28) which is configured to guide the valve member (25) between the closed and open positions and which is connected to the ring- shaped attachment portion (27) by at least two connecting arms (29) protruding from an outer surface of the guiding portion (28), the outer surface of the guiding portion (28) having a cross- section which tapers towards the second end portion (21.2) of the tubular valve housing (21) and away from the valve seat (24).
2. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 1 , wherein the outer surface of the guiding portion (28) is substantially conical or frusto-conical.
3. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the valve body (26) includes a first axial stop surface (38) and the valve member (25) includes a second axial stop surface (39) configured to abut against the first axial stop surface (38) when the valve member (25) is in the open position.
4. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the valve member (25) comprises a valve stem portion (31), the guiding portion (28) including a central bore (32) configured to accommodate and guide the valve stem portion (31) of the valve member (25).
5. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 4, wherein the discharge check valve assembly (18) further comprises a biasing element (36) at least partially arranged within the central bore (32) of the guiding portion (28) and configured to bias the valve member (25) towards the closed position and in a direction away from the valve body (26).
6. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 5, wherein the valve stem portion (31) comprises an internal bore (37) accommodating a portion of the biasing element (36).
7. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the central bore (32) of the guiding portion (28) extends all the way through the guiding portion (28), the valve stem portion (31) protruding from the guiding portion (28) when the valve member (25) is in the open position.
8. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 4 to 7, wherein the valve member (25) further comprises a valve head portion (33) which is formed at an end of the valve stem portion (31) facing away from the valve body (26) and which is configured to cooperate with the valve seat (24) when the valve member (25) is in the closed position.
9. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 8, wherein the valve head portion (33) has an outer surface having a cross-section which tapers in a direction away from the guiding portion (28).
10. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the valve head portion (33) comprises an annular groove accommodating a sealing element which is configured to abut the valve seat (24) when the valve member (25) is in the closed position.
11. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 8, wherein the valve head portion (33) comprises a plate portion (46) extending perpendicular to the valve stem portion (31), a disc-shaped sealing member (47) arranged on the plate portion (46) and a valve head (48) retaining the disc-shaped sealing member (47) on the plate portion (46).
12. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 11 , wherein the disc-shaped sealing member (47) and the valve head (48) respectively include a first central passage (49) and a second central passage (51), the valve member (25) including an alignment portion (52) protruding from the plate portion (46) and cooperating with the first and second central passages (49, 51).
13. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the disc-shaped sealing member (47) has a ring-shaped sealing surface (53) which is exposed and which configured to abut the valve seat (24) when the valve member (25) is in the closed position.
14. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to
13, wherein the inner surface of the tubular valve housing (21) includes an inwardly tapering surface portion (54) extending between the first end portion (21.1) of the tubular valve housing (21) and the valve seat (24).
15. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to
14, wherein the valve body (26), the valve member (25) and the inner surface of the tubular valve housing (21) delimit, when the valve member (25) is in the open position, a flow path (42) for a compressed refrigerant gas, the flow path (42) having a ring-shaped cross section.
16. The discharge check valve assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to
15, wherein the valve body (26) and the valve member (25) form an egg-shaped or drop-shaped closed structure (41) when the valve member (25) is in the open position.
17. A scroll compressor (1) comprising a compressor shell (2) having a discharge outlet (4), and a discharge check valve assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the tubular valve housing (21) is inserted in the discharge outlet (4) and is hermetically secured thereto, and the first end portion (21.1) of the tubular valve housing (21) is arranged inside the compressor shell (2).
PCT/EP2021/082843 2020-11-25 2021-11-24 Scroll compressor with discharge check valve WO2022112341A1 (en)

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FR2012105A FR3116581B1 (en) 2020-11-25 2020-11-25 Discharge check valve assembly for a scroll compressor, and scroll compressor comprising such a discharge check valve assembly
FRFR2012105 2020-11-25

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FR3137725A1 (en) * 2022-07-11 2024-01-12 Danfoss Commercial Compressors Scroll compressor comprising a discharge check valve assembly with metal-to-metal sealing surfaces

Citations (7)

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