Assembling, Charging, Or Repairing Of Refrigeration Producer Patents (Class 62/77)
-
Patent number: 6886349Abstract: An aluminum heat exchanger is provided. In one embodiment, the aluminum heat exchanger comprises a fin having a first aperture therethrough with a flange formed around the first aperture. The fin is made from a first alloy having a first melting point. The heat exchanger includes a refrigerant tube made from a second alloy having a second melting point. The refrigerant tube extends through the first aperture. The heat exchanger also has a tubular coupling made from a third alloy having a third melting point and that is coupled to an end of the refrigerant tube. A fourth alloy having a fourth melting point less than the first, second, and third melting points is interposed the refrigerant tube and the flange, and further interposed the refrigerant tube and the tubular coupling. A method of manufacturing and a refrigeration unit are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: Lennox Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: Victor Curicuta, Mark W. Olsen, Oved W. Hanson
-
Patent number: 6851269Abstract: A refrigerant refill amount calculating apparatus is provided with concentration measuring units for measuring component ratios X1:Y1:Z1 of fluorocarbon S contained in a refrigerating machine, and a calculation processing unit. The calculating unit calculates additional filling amounts of respective refrigerant components which are required to fill fluorocarbon having a defined amount “A” in accordance with defined component ratios X:Y:Z within the refrigerating machine 2 based upon an additional filling amount Xa of a refrigerant component which has been additionally filled into the refrigerating machine, and a change amount of component ratios X1:Y1:Z1, X2:Y2:Z2 which have been measured before and after the refrigerant component was filled. Refill amounts of refrigerant components can be easily calculated in a correct manner.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.Inventors: Toshiyuki Nomura, Hiroji Kohsaka, Yasuyuki Nakanishi, Kennosuke Kojima
-
Patent number: 6843070Abstract: A refrigerant handling system includes coupling apparatus for coupling a refrigerant processing apparatus to an automotive air-conditioning system. The coupling apparatus includes a ball valve including a common port and at least two selectable ports, and a valve member manually movable among a closed condition, wherein the common port is connected to neither selectable port, and three open conditions wherein the common port is connected, respectively, to each of the selectable ports and both of the selectable ports. The common port of the valve is connected to the refrigerant processing apparatus, while the selectable ports are connected, respectively, to conduits for providing connections to the high-pressure and low-pressure sides of the air-conditioning system.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: Snap-on Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Anwar Suharno
-
Patent number: 6826925Abstract: An apparatus (100) for collecting and purifying a refrigerant fluid in air conditioning systems, comprising a first tubular body (110), used as evaporator and separator of impurities of refrigerant (130) coming from a refrigerant circuit (50), through ducts (51) and (52), and a second tubular body (104) used for separating the fluid (130) from the oil (131) entrained during a compression step. First tubular body (110) and second tubular body (104) are arranged between a top distribution flange (101) and a bottom distribution flange (106). In said flanges a plurality of channels are made, which form portions of the circuit for refrigerant (130), as well as are used for other functions and for other fluids flowing in the whole purifying machine that includes apparatus (100) same. Refrigerant (130) contained in tubular body (110) evaporates by the heat of both a coil tube exchanger (111), which is located inside tubular body (110), and a portion of flange (106), which is located under tubular body (110).Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: North European Patents & Investments H.S.A. Societe AnonymeInventor: Marie Joseph Renders
-
Patent number: 6823688Abstract: A refrigerant filler casing structure comprises a container, having a pressure gauge accommodating groove, a main body accommodating groove, a connector accommodating groove, and a duct accommodating groove sequentially disposed therein; the main body accommodating groove is used for mounting the main body of the filler; the high pressure gauge and low pressure gauge are disposed in the pressure gauge accommodating groove; the high pressure connector, low pressure connector, refrigerant connector, and vacuum connector are disposed in the connector accommodating groove; and the refrigerant duct substantially in a coiled condition is disposed in the duct accommodating groove; and a lid, having one side movably opened and closed is coupled to one side of the container, and the lid covers the duct accommodating groove when the lid covers the container; and an opening is disposed at the bottom of the lid.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2004Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Shu-Lin Chiu
-
Patent number: 6810681Abstract: A method of draining and recharging a hermetic compressor with oil using a drainage assembly mounted in the compressor housing. The assembly includes a tube having a valve mounted at one end thereof with the second end of the tube located in the oil sump of the housing. To drain the compressor oil, refrigerant flowing through the discharge and suction lines is shut off. Refrigerant is purged from the housing to create a vacuum therein and the housing is charged with a gas such as dry air or nitrogen. As the compressor housing is charged with gas, the pressure inside the housing increases, forcing the oil through the drainage assembly and out of the compressor. To recharge the compressor with oil, the gases are purged creating a vacuum in the housing. A predetermined amount of oil is drawn into the housing through a service hose. The compressor is purged and recharged with refrigerant.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Tecumseh Products CompanyInventors: Sukru Erisgen, James D. Rutz
-
Publication number: 20040168463Abstract: An automotive air conditioning refrigerant charging apparatus. In a described embodiment, an automotive air conditioning refrigerant charging apparatus includes an R-134a system quick connect connector, a pressure gauge and a refrigerant can valve. The pressure gauge and the valve are simultaneously and permanently connected to the quick connect connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2003Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventor: Newton Howard Dudley
-
Patent number: 6779359Abstract: There are provided a high-yield economical, refrigerant processing apparatus for collected equipment which can recover and regenerate a liquid refrigerant by highly efficient thermal conversion and charge collected equipment with the liquid refrigerant, without releasing the refrigerant into the air, and an oil separator for use with the refrigerant processing apparatus. In the oil separator, an oil is separated from an oil-containing refrigerant to be recovered, and in a condenser, a gaseous refrigerant is converted into a liquid refrigerant. The oil separator has a heat exchanging double spiral pipe in which a double pipe made of a central pipe and an external pipe is formed spirally about a vertical central axis of the oil separator, and a heating unit for vaporizing the liquid refrigerant.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Dengen Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sadao Higami
-
Patent number: 6779350Abstract: The compressor head, internal and/or external discriminator, and manifold design in general utilize ball valves on the suction and discharge of a cylinder head in the recovery of refrigerant liquid and/or vapor. The device facilitates the flashing of liquid refrigerant pumped to the compressor which, in turn, assists to cool the compressor head. The flashing of liquid refrigerant to vapor also deters liquid transfer into the compressor enhancing performance thereof. The vapor passages within the discriminator, cylinder head and/or manifold are sized for receipt of spring actuated ball's to open and/or close the vapor passages during suction and/or discharge of refrigerant vapor or liquid by the compressor.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Assignee: Ritchie Enginerring Company, Inc.Inventors: Ajit Ramachandran, Keith Sliger, Ronald A. Plasek
-
Publication number: 20040159110Abstract: A heat exchange apparatus (e.g., that may be used with an existing conduit that is in a flooded state and a heat pump apparatus or other HVAC apparatus of a thermal energy exchange system) includes at least one fluid source conduit configured to replace a section of the existing conduit that is in a flooded state and further configured to permit at least a portion of a fluid that is in the existing conduit to flow therethrough. The heat exchange apparatus further includes at least one heat transfer conduit having an inlet and outlet configured to be coupled to a heat pump apparatus to form a closed loop therewith. Further, the heat transfer conduit is further configured to communicate with the fluid source conduit for providing thermal energy exchange between the fluid flowing through the fluid source conduit and a fluid (e.g., a refrigerant, water or a water and anti-freeze mixture) flowing in the closed loop.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Terrance E. Janssen
-
Publication number: 20040123617Abstract: A fluid delivery apparatus provides for controlled delivery of fluids into a fluid system. The fluid delivery apparatus can allow a defined volume of fluid to be delivered to the fluid system cleanly, minimizing fluid waste and spillage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: Bright Solutions, Inc., a Michigan corporationInventor: Steven M. Knowles
-
Patent number: 6742343Abstract: A removable self-contained refrigeration unit is mounted within a vehicle, and is removable from a vehicle as a unit. The casing mounts both the evaporator and the condenser, and in one embodiment also mounts the compressor. With the embodiment that mounts the compressor, no refrigerant lines need be found anywhere except on the casing. The casing is removable from the vehicle as a one piece unit merely by connecting or disconnecting electrical connections. In a second embodiment the compressor is mounted remotely from the casing but the evaporator and condenser are still changeable as a one piece unit. In this embodiment a refrigerant connection need also be connected or disconnected to change the unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Philippe Matonog, Xavier Petit
-
Publication number: 20040083750Abstract: The multiple charger consists of an instrument that allows several operations, and allows several norms in only one tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2003Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Jose Carlos Fajardo
-
Publication number: 20040079092Abstract: A refrigerant charging/pressure testing hose assembly meeting SAE standard J2196 is useable to both (1) check the pressure in a refrigerant circuit and, (2) if necessary, add refrigerant to the circuit. The assembly includes a length of refrigerant charging hose having a quick disconnect coupler disposed at one end and connectable to a service fitting portion of the circuit, a piercing-type shutoff valve disposed at the other hose end and connectable to a refrigerant charging canister, a pressure gauge installed in a longitudinally intermediate portion of the hose, and a check valve installed in the hose between the shutoff valve and the pressure gauge and permitting flow through the hose only toward the quick coupler.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: April 29, 2004Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Patent number: 6722141Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive liquid and is partially evacuated. Additive liquid from the canister may be placed into the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system by (1) connecting the canister to the circuit after it has been emptied and a vacuum pressure created therein, (2) connecting the canister to the refrigerant circuit suction line during system operation, or (3) connecting the canister to the suction line with the system off, to thereby force refrigerant from the circuit into the canister, and then starting the system to cause the vacuum pressure in the suction line to draw the contents of the canister into the refrigerant circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: E.F. Products, Inc.Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Patent number: 6701722Abstract: An air conditioner and method of detecting a refrigerant leakage in the air conditioner in which the entire refrigerant pipe of the air conditioner is sectioned based on expansion valves into a plurality of sections, the sections are checked one by one to quickly detect a refrigerant leakage from the sections and an exact position of a broken or loosened area of the refrigerant pipe causing such a refrigerant leakage is found. In the method of detecting a refrigerant leakage in the air conditioner, comprising a compressor, an expansion valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, and an indoor heat exchanger connected to one another by a refrigerant pipe, the refrigerant pipe is sectioned into a high pressure section extending from the outlet port of the compressor to the inlet port of the expansion valve, and a low pressure section extending from the outlet port of the expansion valve to the inlet port of the compressor. A pressure sensor is provided on the refrigerant pipe within the low pressure section.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hyeong-Joon Seo, Gyoo-Ha Jung
-
Patent number: 6698216Abstract: A refrigeration system for cooling a logic module includes an evaporator housing including an evaporator block in thermal communication with the logic module. The evaporator housing includes a humidity sensor for detecting a humidity within the evaporator housing. The system further comprises a controller for controlling a refrigeration unit supplying cold refrigerant to the evaporator block in response to the operating conditions of the logic module and the temperature of the evaporator block. In another aspect of the invention, two modular refrigeration units are independently operable to cool the evaporator block, and each refrigeration unit is controllable in various modes of operation including an enabled mode in which it is ready to cool the evaporator and an on mode in which it is actively cooling the evaporator. In another aspect of the invention, the evaporator block and a heater on a reverse side of the circuit board are particularly controlled during concurrent repair operations.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Gary F. Goth, Jody A. Hickey, Daniel J. Kearney, Robert Makowicki
-
Publication number: 20040016258Abstract: The invention relates to an air conditioning system for motor vehicles, which contains a connection piece for a pressure switch/pressure sensor, said connection piece being suitable for evacuating and filling the air conditioning system after the removal of the pressure switch/pressure sensor, so that the two normally separate functions are combined in one connection piece.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2003Publication date: January 29, 2004Applicant: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Dietmar Boehme, Dietmar Fischer, Uwe Heinz
-
Publication number: 20040000163Abstract: An apparatus (100) for collecting and purifying a refrigerant fluid in air conditioning systems, comprisingType: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: January 1, 2004Applicant: North European PatentsInventor: Marie Joseph Renders
-
Patent number: 6668574Abstract: A manifold for charging a system which when in use cycles a refrigerant between liquid and gaseous states is disclosed. The manifold includes a housing defining a flow passage extending from an inlet to an outlet. Structure is within the housing to define a capillary in parallel communication with a section of the passage. A refrigerant state control valve is connected to the housing. The valve, when in the open position, enables concurrent refrigerant flow through both the section of the passage and the capillary to charge such a system with refrigerant in a liquid state. The valve when in the closed position sufficiently blocks the section of the passage to cause all refrigerant flow to be through the capillary thereby to enable charging such a system with refrigerant in a gaseous state.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Stride Tool, Inc.Inventors: Tom J. Rakowski, Miles J. Dubinsky, James A. Terry
-
Publication number: 20030230090Abstract: A method of draining and recharging a hermetic compressor with oil using a drainage assembly mounted in the compressor housing. The assembly includes a tube having a valve mounted at one end thereof with the second end of the tube located in the oil sump of the housing. To drain the compressor oil, refrigerant flowing through the discharge and suction lines is shut off. Refrigerant is purged from the housing to create a vacuum therein and the housing is charged with a gas such as dry air or nitrogen. As the compressor housing is charged with gas, the pressure inside the housing increases, forcing the oil through the drainage assembly and out of the compressor. To recharge the compressor with oil, the gases are purged creating a vacuum in the housing. A predetermined amount of oil is drawn into the housing through a service hose. The compressor is purged and recharged with refrigerant.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventors: Sukru Erisgen, James D. Rutz
-
Patent number: 6662577Abstract: A refrigeration system for cooling a logic module includes an evaporator housing including an evaporator block in thermal communication with the logic module. The evaporator housing includes a humidity sensor for detecting a humidity within the evaporator housing. The system further comprises a controller for controlling a refrigeration unit supplying cold refrigerant to the evaporator block in response to the operating conditions of the logic module and the temperature of the evaporator block. In another aspect of the invention, two modular refrigeration units are independently operable to cool the evaporator block, and each refrigeration unit is controllable in various modes of operation including an enabled mode in which it is ready to cool the evaporator and an on mode in which it is actively cooling the evaporator. In another aspect of the invention, the evaporator block and a heater on a reverse side of the circuit board are particularly controlled during concurrent repair operations.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventors: Gary F. Goth, Jody A. Hickey, Daniel J. Kearney, Robert Makowicki
-
Patent number: 6655160Abstract: Refrigerant compositions are disclosed which comprise: (a) pentafluoroethane, octafluoropropane, trifluoromethoxydifluoromethane or hexafluoro-cyclopropane, or a mixture of two or more thereof, in an amount of at least 35% based on the weight of the composition, (b) 1,1,1,2- or 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, trifluoromethoxypentafluoroethane, 1,1,2,3,3-heptafluoropropane or a mixture of two or more thereof, in an amount of at least 30% by weight based on the weight of the composition and (c) n-butane or isobutane, in an amount from 1% to less than 2.3% by weight based on the weight of the composition.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Rhodia LimitedInventor: Neil Andre Roberts
-
Publication number: 20030188545Abstract: The compressor head, internal and/or external discriminator, and manifold design in general utilize ball valves on the suction and discharge of a cylinder head in the recovery of refrigerant liquid and/or vapor. The device facilitates the flashing of liquid refrigerant pumped to the compressor which, in turn, assists to cool the compressor head. The flashing of liquid refrigerant to vapor also deters liquid transfer into the compressor enhancing performance thereof. The vapor passages within the discriminator, cylinder head and/or manifold are sized for receipt of spring actuated ball's to open and/or close the vapor passages during suction and/or discharge of refrigerant vapor or liquid by the compressor.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2003Publication date: October 9, 2003Applicant: Ritchie Engineering Company, Inc.Inventors: Ajit Ramachandran, Keith Sliger, Ronald A. Plasek
-
Patent number: 6619065Abstract: A heating, ventilating and air conditioning worker's servicing cart consisting of a base platform to which is mounted an axle holding two anterior wheels, two posterior platform legs, two pairs of upper platform uprights to the posterior pair of which and the platform legs there are attached handlebars with a top platform attached to the platform uprights and legs with cross braces to which recovery and refrigerant tank strapping is attached with pressurized tank strapping attached to the posterior pair and with brazen rod quivers attached to the posterior platform legs and with a recovery tank stabilizing ring affixed to the base platform as well as a recovery tank stabilizing plate and vacuum pump holding bracket both being affixed to the anterior pair of top platform uprights along with recovery tank support strapping with the plate being affixed below the holding bracket.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2002Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Inventors: Bruce H. Burton, William T. Burton, Bruce A. Burton, Jamie A. Burton
-
Patent number: 6609385Abstract: A refrigerant charging/pressure testing hose assembly meeting SAE standard J2196 is useable to both (1) check the pressure in a refrigerant circuit and, (2) if necessary, add refrigerant to the circuit. The assembly includes a length of refrigerant charging, hose having a quick disconnect coupler disposed at one end and connectable to a service fitting portion of the circuit, a piercing-type shutoff valve disposed at the other hose end and connectable to a refrigerant charging canister, a pressure gauge installed in a longitudinally intermediate portion of the hose, and a check valve installed in the hose between the shutoff valve and the pressure gauge and permitting flow through the hose only toward the quick coupler.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: E.F. Products, Inc.Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Publication number: 20030131622Abstract: A manifold for charging a system which when in use cycles a refrigerant between liquid and gaseous states is disclosed. The manifold includes a housing defining a flow passage extending from an inlet to an outlet. Structure is within the housing to define a capillary in parallel communication with a section of the passage. A refrigerant state control valve is connected to the housing. The valve, when in the open position, enables concurrent refrigerant flow through both the section of the passage and the capillary to charge such a system with refrigerant in a liquid state. The valve when in the closed position sufficiently blocks the section of the passage to cause all refrigerant flow to be through the capillary thereby to enable charging such a system with refrigerant in a gaseous state.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventors: Tom J. Rakowski, Miles J. Dubinsky, James A. Terry
-
Patent number: 6591629Abstract: A refrigerant recovery system that includes an accumulator, a storage tank and an integrated two-phase distillation and filtration path interposing the accumulator and the storage tank. The accumulator may be couplable to a system under repair to receive contaminated refrigerant therefrom. The storage tank may be adapted to receive and store processed refrigerant. The integrated two-phase distillation and filtration path may have a vapor filter, a compressor, a radiator and a liquid filter.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Galbreath Envirosave, Inc.Inventor: Charles E. Galbreath, Jr.
-
Patent number: 6588220Abstract: A process is provided for production of a refrigerating circuit comprising non-evaporable getter material, wherein said getter material, previously introduced into the same circuit, is heated to a temperature of at least 200° C. during or immediately after the circuit evacuating step, at a residual atmospheric gas pressure of not less than 10 mbar, before introduction of the mixture of cooling fluids and before the circuit sealing. Preferred is the use of zirconium-based getter alloys.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: SAES Getters S.p.A.Inventors: Paolo Manini, Claudio Boffito, Alessandro Gallitognotta, Alessio Corazza
-
Patent number: 6578371Abstract: A receiver dryer mounting bracket (38) for a condenser system (20) includes a body (76) and an arm (78) coupled to and extending from the body (76). The body (76) has an opening (90) and seat sections (92, 94) positioned at opposing ends of a length of the opening (90). Flanges (71, 73) on inlet and outlet pipes (34, 36) of the condenser system (20) are seated in the seat sections (92, 94). An arcuate crimp section (102) of the body (76) is compressed to secure the inlet and outlet pipes (34, 36) in respective ones of the seat sections (92, 94) to form a pipe assembly (30). The pipe assembly (30) is coupled to a header (26) of the condenser system (20) prior to furnace brazing, and a receiver dryer (32) is subsequently mounted to the bracket (38).Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: Calsonickansei North America, Inc.Inventors: Marvin D. Beasley, Terry G. Reavis, James D. Snow, Norimitsu Takeshita
-
Patent number: 6571565Abstract: A refrigeration system including a pair of heat exchangers, a hermetic compressor assembly having a compressor housing containing refrigerant fluid, fluid conveying lines and a flow restriction device forming a working refrigerant system, an evacuation volume having one of a first, substantially evacuated state and a second, fluid-containing state, a control valve located between the working refrigeration system and the evacuation volume and having an initial, closed position and an open position, and at least one refrigerant gas detector located externally of the working refrigeration system and in communication with the control valve. The evacuation volume is fluidly isolated from the working refrigeration system in the valve closed position and in fluid communication with the working refrigeration system in the valve open position.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Tecumseh Products CompanyInventors: Todd W. Herrick, Rick L. Bunch
-
Patent number: 6560972Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for enhancing the carbonation efficiency of an ice-chilled beverage dispenser. The system includes a beverage dispenser having an ice bin, a pre-chill coil proximate a portion of a store of ice in the ice bin; and an under-counter assembly having a carbonator in fluid flow communication with the pre-chill coil, and a pump for pumping water through said system. Water flows through the pre-chill coil prior to flowing through the carbonator. The present invention provides various methods of converting existing ice-chilled beverage dispensers including installing a pre-chill coil proximate to a store of ice in the ice bin so that water flows through the pre-chill coil before it flows through the carbonator. Another method includes diverting the flow of water from a water chill coil to the carbonator, instead of a plain water valve to which fluid originally flowed from the water chill coil.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: SerVend International, Inc.Inventor: Fernando A. Ubidia
-
Patent number: 6546747Abstract: Assaying of liquid samples of refrigerant to determine their composition utilizing refractive index techniques. The sampling may be done with the use of extractors which remove refrigerant gases from refrigerant machines, and clean and dry the sample before it is assayed.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Inventor: Frederico Burke
-
Patent number: 6546952Abstract: A service valve and cap assembly is disclosed. The service valve comprises a valve stem that is inserted into a valve body. An upper portion of the valve body defines a collar selectively formable between a first installation inner diameter to a second retention inner diameter. A service valve sealing cap includes a base portion and a generally annular sealing portion. An annular shoulder is formed on the sealing portion inner diameter, such that the radially inner diameter of the shoulder portion is less than the collar first outer diameter, and is greater than the collar second outer diameter.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1999Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Parker-Hannifiin CorporationInventors: Michael G. Martin, David Klafter, Todd Markward
-
Patent number: 6526764Abstract: Hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants are not soluble in hydrocarbon oil. Retrofitting refrigeration equipment with hydrofluorocarbons generally entails the use of expensive polyol ester (POE) lubricants. The invention provides hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant compositions that are soluble in hydrocarbon oil thus allowing for a simpler and less expensive retrofit option to the refrigerant user.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Rajiv Ratna Singh, David Paul Wilson, Raymond Hilton Percival Thomas, Robert Gerard Richard
-
Patent number: 6510698Abstract: A heat source unit and refrigerant used in an existing refrigeration system are replaced with new refrigerant and a new heat source unit which employs the new refrigerant and is equipped with an oil separator and extraneous-matter trapping device. An indoor unit of the existing refrigeration system may be used, in its present form, or replaced with a new indoor unit. Further, connecting pipes used for the existing refrigeration are reused. After replacement of refrigerant, the refrigeration system performs an ordinary operation after having performed a cleaning operation. The extraneous-matter trapping device is provided in a refrigerant pipe close to the heat source unit or in a bypass channel connected to the refrigerant pipe close to the heat source unit. Alternatively, only the heat source unit of the existing refrigeration system is replaced with a new one, and there is employed refrigeration oil which has no mutual solubility with respect to HFC or has very low mutual solubility.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2000Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tomohiko Kasai, Mitsunori Kurachi, Hidekazu Tani, Moriya Miyamoto, Yoshihiro Sumida, Takashi Ikeda, Toshihiro Kikukawa, Shohichiroh Masuda, Hirofumi Koge
-
Publication number: 20030014985Abstract: A helium management control system for controlling the helium refrigerant supply from a common manifold supplies a plurality of cryogenic refrigerators with an appropriate helium supply. The system employs a plurality of sensors to monitor and regulate the overall refrigerant supply to deliver an appropriate refrigerant supply to each of the cryogenic refrigerators depending on the computed aggregate cooling demand of all of the cryogenic refrigerators. An appropriate supply of helium is distributed to each cryopump by sensing excess and sparse helium refrigerant and redistributing refrigerant accordingly. If the total refrigeration supply exceeds the total refrigerant demand, or consumption, excess refrigerant is directed to cryogenic refrigerators which can utilize the excess helium to complete a current cooling function more quickly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2001Publication date: January 23, 2003Applicant: Helix Technology CorporationInventors: Paul E. Dresens, Gary S. Ash, Allen J. Bartlett, Bruce R. Andeen, Y. Roberto Than, Joseph Chopy
-
Patent number: 6508065Abstract: The invention is a system and process for supplying fluid in hermetic circuits. The type of hermetic circuit is identified, and based upon this identification, vacuum and fluid supply conditions that are predetermined for the type of circuit are applied. Using the system and process, multiple types of hermetic circuits with varying operating conditions may be continually processed on a production line.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1999Date of Patent: January 21, 2003Assignee: Multibras S.A. EletrodomesticosInventors: Estevao Marino De Espindola, Vadis Bellini, Marcio Moacir Pereira, Eriberto Nelson De Souza, Paulo Geraldo Scheibe
-
Publication number: 20020189265Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive fluid which is partially evacuated, said refrigerant circuit additive fluid is comprised of a combination of a binding azeotrope of methanol and cyclohexanone with a drying agent, a metal sealant and a rubber rejuvinating compound in a single container.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2002Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J Quest
-
Publication number: 20020174664Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive liquid and is partially evacuated. Additive liquid from the canister may be placed into the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system by (1) connecting the canister to the circuit after it has been emptied and a vacuum pressure created therein, (2) connecting the canister to the refrigerant circuit suction line during system operation, or (3) connecting the canister to the suction line with the system off, to thereby force refrigerant from the circuit into the canister, and then starting the system to cause the vacuum pressure in the suction line to draw the contents of the canister into the refrigerant circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Patent number: 6484526Abstract: A manifold gauge assembly that combines in a single apparatus the features of a manifold gauge set and the features of a phase change device. The manifold gauge assembly may be utilized for charging both pure liquid refrigerants and blends of liquid refrigerants and still maintain the ability of full porting for vacuum optimization. The invention also comprises a phase change device adapted to be fixedly attached to a manifold.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: ICOR International, Inc.Inventor: James A. Terry
-
Patent number: 6481221Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive liquid and is partially evacuated. Additive liquid from the canister may be placed into the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system by (1) connecting the canister to the circuit after it has been emptied and a vacuum pressure created therein, (2) connecting the canister to the refrigerant circuit suction line during system operation, or (3) connecting the canister to the suction line with the system off, to thereby force refrigerant from the circuit into the canister, and then starting the system to cause the vacuum pressure in the suction line to draw the contents of the canister into the refrigerant circuit.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Patent number: 6470695Abstract: A gauge manifold is connectable to the suction and liquid lines of an air conditioning refrigerant circuit and has a built-in charge level calculator into which system manufacturing and capacity data is enterable. Charging data corresponding to the input data is stored within the calculator and automatically utilized in conjunction with ambient temperature and refrigerant pressure levels sensed by the calculator to generate a visual display indicating whether the circuit's refrigerant charge level is acceptable, high or low for the particular unit or system being checked. If the displayed charge level is high or low, the gauge manifold is additionally connected to a pressurized refrigerant canister or recycling drum and a valve portion of the manifold is operated to add or remove refrigerant to the circuit, via the gauge manifold, as necessary until the calculator display indicates that the circuit is properly charged.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Rheem Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Ying Gong
-
Patent number: 6467283Abstract: A kit and method for retrofitting an R-12 air conditioner into an R-134a air conditioner are provided. The kit includes a first pressurized container of R-134a lubricant or oil sufficient to fully charge an automobile air conditioner. Preferably, the first container also contains pressurized refrigerant 134a to act as a propellant to deliver the lubricant in aerosol form. A second pressurized container may also be provided containing a full charge of R-134a for an auto air conditioner. The kit includes a service port adapter, configured to be convertible to the service port of an automobile air conditioner wherein both the first and second containers may be hooked up to the auto air conditioner via the same service port adapter.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Assignee: Interdynamics, Inc.Inventor: Saul Trachtenberg
-
Publication number: 20020148238Abstract: A system and method for reconditioning a chiller in which moisture has contaminated a refrigerant side of the chiller includes draining refrigerant from the refrigerant side of the chiller and operating a moisture removal assembly connected thereto to remove remaining moisture. The chiller is then recharged with refrigerant and a refrigerant purification assembly connected to the chiller is operated to remove contaminates, such as particulate matter, from the refrigerant. The refrigerant purification assembly includes a vacuum line connected to the chiller for receiving refrigerant drawn out of the chiller and a diaphragm pump connected to the vacuum line and operable to draw refrigerant out of the chiller and through the vacuum line to the pump. A filter assembly is disposed in the vacuum line intermediate the chiller and the pump for filtering contaminates out of refrigerant drawn through the vacuum line.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2001Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventor: Bryan A. Blume
-
Patent number: 6449962Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for easily recovering a refrigerant from a refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration apparatus at a low cost. A refrigerant recovery apparatus 6A is provided with a pipeline 7 for connection to the refrigerant circuit, a valve 17 with a clamping/piercing function disposed on the tip end of this pipeline 7, and a refrigerant recovery main body 10A containing a solid adsorbent 9 which can selectively adsorb the refrigerant, and the clamping/piercing function valve 17 is attached to the refrigerant circuit to make a small hole in the refrigerant circuit so that the refrigerant is adsorbed/recovered to the solid adsorbent 9.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2000Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuo Takemasa, Takayuki Shimizu, Jiro Yuzawa, Katsuhiko Inoue, Fukuji Yoshida, Yonezo Ikumi
-
Publication number: 20020124578Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive fluid which is partially evacuated, said refrigerant circuit additive fluid is comprised of a combination of a binding azeotrope of methanol and cyclohexanone with a drying agent, a metal sealant and a rubber rejuvinating compound in a single container.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Publication number: 20020124577Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive liquid and is partially evacuated. Additive liquid from the canister may be placed into the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system by (1) connecting the canister to the circuit after it has been emptied and a vacuum pressure created therein, (2) connecting the canister to the refrigerant circuit suction line during system operation, or (3) connecting the canister to the suction line with the system off, to thereby force refrigerant from the circuit into the canister, and then starting the system to cause the vacuum pressure in the suction line to draw the contents of the canister into the refrigerant circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Inventors: James E. Ferris, William J. Quest
-
Patent number: 6446453Abstract: A unitary hose connection for servicing an automobile air conditioning system is provided. A first connector is disposed at one first end and is connectable with a low pressure service port of an automobile air conditioning system. A second connector is disposed at the other end of the hose and is selectively connectable with both a pressure gauge and a can tap valve. The can tap valve is attachable to a can of compressed refrigerant. When a pressure gauge is attached to the second connector and the first connector is attached to the service port, the pressure of the refrigerant in the automobile air conditioning system can be measured. When the second connector is attached to the can tap valve, the compressed refrigerant in the can may be introduced into the automobile air conditioning system to thereby service the system. The hose connection, pressure gauge, can tap valve, and can of refrigerant may be packaged together in a kit.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Interdynamics, Inc.Inventor: Saul Trachtenberg
-
Patent number: 6442958Abstract: A fluid delivery apparatus provides for controlled delivery of fluids into a fluid system. The fluid delivery apparatus can allow a defined volume of fluid to be delivered to the fluid system cleanly, minimizing fluid waste and spillage. The fluid delivery apparatus can provide a mechanical advantage allowing the fluid to be delivered easily and efficiently to a pressurized fluid system. The apparatus can have a piston and handle arrangement that can reduce wear of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2001Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Bright Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Steven M. Knowles