Abstract: In a vapor compression refrigeration system an improvement for isolating the compressor from work on a substantial component of refrigerant flashing to vapor upstream of the evaporator, wherein refrigerant liquid from the condenser is collected in a holding vessel from which it is intermittently emptied into an expansion device thereby generating flash vapor in the holding vessel which is prevented from passing through the expansion device and evaporator for return to the compressor.

Abstract: In coolness storage apparatus wherein brine in heat exchange tubes freezes and melts water and air is bubbled up through the water during the melting cycle to enhance heat exchange efficiency by gently circulating the water, vertical heat transfer strips in thermal conducting contact with the tubes for accelerating melting along each strip early in the discharge cycle to open channels through which the air bubbles stream to the top zone of the tank.

Abstract: A thermally insulated ice-cap prevention barrier in an ice bank, extending across the container thereof above a brine-conducting tube bundle immersed in a phase-change material, to prevent freezing of the phase-change material in an expansion space above the barrier and below a cover on the container.

Abstract: A multi-mode off-peak storage heat pump system for a building which includes a unidirectional flow refrigerant circuit and a brine circuit in selective heat exchange relation with one another, each being connected to a dual coil in ducts wherein air can be circulated within and between the inside and outside of the building, and an ice bank in the brine circuit for coolness and low-level heat storage, the system providing heating and cooling with no refrigerant reversing valves or coil defrost means and with optimum off-peak power utilization.