Application of Rotary Compressors in Heat Pumps

The principle of a heat pump, as well as its basic components, are discussed. Heat pump compressors, based on a rotary piston design such as that used in Wankel engines, are considered in detail - especially since they are adaptable to wide speed ranges at fairly constant efficiencies. Engineering details and future studies are outlined, together with the critical points of heat pumps from a manufacturer's point of view. Continuous operation, rather than “on and off” cycling, as well as good matching of output and heating requirements, are made possible by this rotary approach.