Performance Testing of an Open Reciprocating Refrigeration Compressor Over a Range of Speeds

A load stand has been built and used to det ermine the performance of an open type reciprocating r efrigeration compressor over a range of speeds. The load stand and instrumentation are desc ribed and sample test readings are given. Measured perform ance characteristics for the compressor over a range of speeds are p resented. Aspects of the load stand are discussed and conclusion s are drawn from the results of the compressor tests. SYMBOLS m mass flow rate of refrigerant through the compressor, kg/s Q rate of heat transfer in the heat exchan ger, W h· I specific enthalp y of refrigerant at measurement location i, J/kg A,B,C,D load stand control valves a,b,c, •• measurement locations on the load stand M.E.P. mean effective pressure, bar TDC top dead centre position BDC bottom dead centre position Emech mechanical efficiency Evol volumetric efficiency