Method for increasing efficiency of a vapor compression system by compressor cooling

Abstract

Efficiency of a transcritical vapor compression system is increased by compressor cooling. In one embodiment, a stream of cooling fluid accepts compressor motor heat. The heated cooling fluid merges with the fluid medium which accepts heat from the refrigerant in the gas cooler and exits the system, usefully transferring the heat out of the system. Additionally, as the refrigerant in the compressor is cooled, the density and the mass flow rate of the suction gas in the compressor is increased, increasing efficiency. Alternatively, an intercooler positioned between stages of a multi-stage compressor exchanges heat with the same fluid medium which accepts heat from the refrigerant in the gas cooler. After accepting heat from the refrigerant in the intercooler, the heated fluid medium exits the system, usefully transferring heat from the system.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.