PROBLEM
Oil lubricates the bearings and other contact surfaces in compressors. The current method to measure oil circulation ratio (OCR) involves transferring solvent and oil out of the system. Practically, it’s impossible to measure more than 3-4 samples at a time using this method.
SOLUTION
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new method to determine oil circulation in refrigeration systems that employ lubricated compressors. It determines OCR in-situ and also allows multiple samples of oil to be taken in succession, allowing the low frequency dynamic behavior of OCR to be distinguished. Finally, with a smart accumulator, the system protects the compressor from liquid flooding and oil starvation.
IN THE MEDIA
Purdue University News Release
PRIMARY INVESTIGATOR
Eckhard A. Groll, the William E. and Florence E. Perry Head of Mechanical Engineering, the Reilly Professor of Mechanical Engineering, School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering
INNOVATION DISCLOSURE
Smart Accumulator with Oil Circulation Ratio Sensing
LICENSING CONTACTS
Phone: (765) 588-3475
Fax: (765) 463-3486
Email: otcip@prf.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Email: Steve Martin // sgmartin@prf.org