Part 7. Refrigeration Equipment | Chapter 1.
Reciprocating Refrigeration Machine
OPEN COMPRESSOR
Whenever possible, across the line starting is most
desirable because it id less costly and less troublesome
than the complicated reduced voltage equipment.
However, limitations of the power distribution system
capacity often require the use of a reduced voltage
starter for compressor motors above a certain size. In
each case the power company concerned should be
consulted and a rating obtained with respect to the
particular application.
When reduced voltage starting must be used, in
crement starting is the least expensive because it
requires no voltage-reducing elements such as
transformers or resistors. Although the most expensive
type, auto transformer starters obtain the most effective
reduction of inrush current drawn from the line. Primary
resistance starters are less expensive and obtain a
smaller degree of reduction of inrush current. Refer to
Part 8 for data on starters.
CONTROLS
Compressor control consists mainly of capacity
control, safety controls and the method of compressor
operation.
COMPRESSOR CAPACITY CONTROL
Various methods of capacity control are available
from different compressor manufacturers. A brief
description and some of the advantages or
disadvantages of there methods are included here.
Suction-Valve-Lift Unloading
This unloading is accomplished by unseating the
suction valves of certain cylinders in the compressor so
that compression cannot take place. this is inherently the
most efficient method of capacity control since passage
of the refrigerant vapor in and out of the cylinder thru the
suction valves without compression involves smaller
losses than other methods. The compressors are