Possible Energy Consumption Gains for MAC Systems Using External Control Compressors

External Control Compressors (ECC) with variable displacement are available on the market and permit to create smart control system, taking into account both cooling needs of the cabin and the engine running speed. With a limited number of sensors it is possible to create new algorithms to control the refrigerant mass flow rate. The paper presents a reference line of a mobile air-conditioning system using a variable displacement compressor and the improvement associated with the new control system.

The tests have been performed according to the European regulatory reference cycle in order to measure fuel consumption of vehicles taking into account both urban and extra-urban cycles. It is essential to analyze mobile air-conditioning systems energy performances, referred to realistic conditions taking into account the quick variations of engine speed during various driving cycles.