Heat Pump Design: Components & Assembly Guide

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a heat pump system utilizing CO2 as the working fluid. Participants explore the selection of components such as compressors and expansion valves, as well as the challenges associated with using CO2 compared to more traditional refrigerants like R134A. The scope includes experimental design and practical assembly considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant is seeking guidance on designing a heat pump system with CO2, expressing uncertainty about component selection and availability.
  • Another participant highlights the challenges of using CO2 due to its properties, such as freezing upon expansion, and questions the choice of CO2 over more conventional refrigerants.
  • A different participant mentions the potential benefits of CO2, such as higher coefficient of performance (COP) and smaller components, while acknowledging the complexity of the project.
  • Resources for designing heat pumps using R134A are requested, indicating a shift in focus from CO2 to a more familiar refrigerant.
  • A suggestion is made to consult national laboratories for resources on energy-efficient heating and cooling, providing a link to a relevant document.
  • One participant expresses feeling overwhelmed and plans to seek advice from a project supervisor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the suitability of CO2 as a working fluid compared to traditional refrigerants. There is no consensus on the best approach or components for the heat pump design, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal choice of refrigerant and design resources.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the assumptions and limitations of using CO2 versus other refrigerants, and there are unresolved questions about the specific design requirements and component sizing for heat pumps.

Avis
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Hey guys,

I'm looking at designing a heat pump system that uses CO2 as the working fluid. I'm not exactly sure how to pick the components that I need like a compressor, expansion valve, etc. I am trying to create an experimental device that will work in conjunction with my CO2 thermosyphon to take heat from low temperature sources.

Is there a design guide?
Does anyone know of a manufacturer of such components or prebuilt assemblies?

Your help is greatly appreciated!
 
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Nobody has an idea? I am stuck beyond stuck. Havent dealt with this kind of thing before and it hard to find resources.
 
CO2 is a tricky fluid for heat pump use because of its properties such as freezing on expansion. Your project sounds interesting, but why use CO2 as the working fluid when there is a mountain of experience with fluorocarbons, which are not much more demanding in terms of temperature range?
 
Trying something different, higher COP, smaller components. Looking to go green. We are realizing however that its a bit out of our league right now. Would you have any resources for designing a heat pump (sizing components and what not) for using R134A as the working fluid?
 
I'm not sufficiently involved with the engineering to help, but would think that the national labs would be your first stop. They are interested in energy efficient heating/cooling and do work on the engineering details in an open framework, unlike the Carriers and such. A quick Google gave this link for a start:
http://www.ornl.gov/sci/ees/etsd/btric/eere_research_reports/electrically_driven_heat_pumps/advanced_cycle_development/air_to_air_single_speed/ornl_conf_810101_5/ornl_conf_810101_5.pdf
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks for the help. I'm going to have to go to my Project supervisor for some serious advice. I think I'm in a little over my head.
 

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