TRCAC Computer Controlled Refrigeration Circuit with Variable Load

The Computer Controlled Refrigeration Circuit with Variable Load, "TRCAC", is a unit designed for the study of a refrigeration cycle with an thermal adjustable load.

The unit includes all the components required for a fully operational refrigeration circuit, such as hermetic compressor, condenser, evaporator and a thermostatic expansion valve.

The condenser consists of a tube exchanger with a fan where the working fluid, in vapor phase, transfers heat while passing through the tubes. Therefore, the working fluid undergoes a phase change, to liquid state, through a condensation process.

In the evaporator, heat is exchanged from a water circuit (thermal load) to the refrigeration circuit. The evaporator consists of a tube exchanger where the working fluid changes phase until it reaches the saturated vapour state. The water circuit consists of a tank with a computer controlled heating element , allowing the water temperature in the tank to be controlled. The water at a certain temperature is driven to the evaporator by a computer controlled circulatory pump.

The main factors involved in the cycle can be measured: coolant flow, compressor power and pressure and temperature in key points of the cycle.

The circuit also includes a sight glass to observe the state of the coolant fluid, a filter, a storage vessel to ensure a proper flow of coolant in the circuit and a liquid separator to prevent liquid from entering the compressor. As a safety measure, the circuit includes a high pressure switch and a low pressure switch.

This Computer Controlled Unit is supplied with the EDIBON Computer Control System (SCADA), and includes: The unit itself + a Control Interface Box + a Data Acquisition Board + Computer Control, Data Acquisition and Data Management Software Packages, for controlling the process and all parameters involved in the process.