Thermo-economical sensitivity analysis of a linear compressor|Analyse de sensibilité thermo-économique d'un compresseur linéaire

The linear compressor is a new kind of reciprocating compressor in which the reciprocating motion is provided by means of a linear motor that replaces the crank mechanism, allowing a reduction in friction, oil-free operation and a continuous control of the cooling capacity without ON/OFF operations. A detailed compressor model has been implemented with the purpose to design a compressor for household refrigerators, using R600a as working fluid and having a cooling power of 200 W. Geometrical and design parameters have been identified, and a sensitivity analysis is carried out to quantify the influence of each parameter on the compressor global and volumetric efficiencies, and costs. All the simulated solutions have been then compared, in terms of global ef- ficiency and costs, to the traditional reciprocating and the linear compressors currently available on the market. It is shown that this technology has generally a higher efficiency but also higher costs. However, a careful design of all the influencing parameters could lead to significant improvements for both objective functions.