Theoretical and experimental study on indicator diagram of twin screw refrigeration compressor

Abstract In this paper a new mathematical model for calculating the indicator diagram of twin screw refrigeration compressor is presented firstly. The geometric parameters related to the rotation angle of male rotor are used in the model such as groove volume, suction and discharge port area, slide valve bypass port area, leakage area etc. The effects of internal leakage through five paths, oil injection, gas–oil heat transfer, refrigerant property and partial loading etc. are taken into account simultaneously and separately in the theoretical study. To verify the model and the calculated p–V indicator diagram, experimental recording of p–V indicator diagram of twin screw refrigeration compressor is carried out. Various indicator diagrams are recorded successfully by a small pressure sensor embedded in the bottom of female rotor at the discharge side. The results of theoretical calculation are in good agreement with the measured data, which lead to conclusion that the model can be used as a powerful tool for performance prediction and product development.