Abstract: A vortex generator for accepting high-pressure condensible vapor and separating the condensible vapor into a relatively hot stream of vapor and a relatively cool liquid. The vortex generator includes an inlet at the first end for allowing high pressure vapor to enter, and an outlet at the second end for allowing condensed liquid to exit wherein the outlet communicates with the inlet via a longitudinal chamber. A nozzle located near the inlet having a plurality of equally-spaced tangential inlets along its perimeter for injecting the vapor that is inlet to the vortex generator into the longitudinal chamber as a high-speed vortex vapor stream proximate the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A regenerative type of refrigeration system recirculates a mixture of R-134a, R-32 and R-125 through first and second series condensers. In order to increase the concentration of the high-boiling point R-134a, the liquid output of a liquid-vapor separator receives a super-heated mixture vapor tapped from the output of the compressor. An adjustable valve controls the amount of the super heated mixture vapor which is injected to vary the concentration of R-134a in the recirculation line. Liquified R-134a passes through a secondary expansion valve and a secondary evaporator, reducing to an intermediate pressure, and enters a vortex tube, thus bypassing the main evaporator. Subsequently, the suction pressure of the compressor increases, increasing the EER of the refrigeration system. The recirculating concept is also applicable to a single refrigerant system.

Abstract: A refrigeration system utilizing a vortex generator and a diffuser to reduce the pressure differential between the head pressure and suction pressure across a compressor.

Abstract: An improved refrigeration system utilizing one or more vortex tubes. Vortex tubes produce liquid refrigerant from saturated-state vapor refrigerant in a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. The efficiency of a refrigeration system can be improved by placing a vortex tube before the evaporator. The efficiency of a refrigeration system may also be improved by placing a vortex tube in the condenser approximately one-quarter of the way from the inlet of the condenser. The efficiency of a refrigeration system may also be improved by placing a vortex tube before the compressor.