Simulation and Modeling of an A/C Rotary Vane Compressor

A simulation model and code suitable for rotary vane compressor are developed. The simulation features are the compression algorithm that makes extensive use of entropy tracking and the real R134a properties in the form of look-up table rather than a polytropic equation. Compression process is modeled as an isentropic process with mass flow into and out of the compression chamber due to leaks between compression chambers and flow through the valves. It was found, during the course of algorithm development, that valve back flow has a significant influence. The simulation output including torque, torque variance, heat capacity, coefficient of performance compare quite favorably with experimental measurements. To demonstrate how the simulation may provide useful insight for design and parts optimization, two simulation examples, one dealing with the effect of varying aspect ratio and the other with cylinder profile characteristics, are presented.