Mass flow characteristics and empirical modeling of R22 and R410A flowing through electronic expansion valves

The applications of electronic expansion valves (EEVs) into multi-type heat pumps and inverter heat pumps in building air-conditioning systems have increased for comfort environmental control and energy conservation. However, test data and mass flow models of EEVs are very limited in open literature. The objectives of this study are to investigate the mass flow characteristics of R22 and R410A through EEVs and to develop an empirical correlation for the prediction of mass flow rates of R22 and R410A through EEVs. Mass flow rates through six EEVs were measured by varying the EEV opening, inlet and outlet pressures, and the subcooling. Mass flow rates of R410A were compared with those of R22 at the same test conditions. Based on the experimental data, an empirical correlation for mass flow predictions in EEVs was developed by modifying the orifice equation. The predictions of the present correlation showed good agreement with the measured data with average and standard deviations of 0.76% and 5.9%, respectively. Approximately 92% of the measured data were within ±10% of the predictions.