First-Principle Dynamic Modeling of a Linear Micro-Compressor

Compressor is the main component in the Vapor Compression Cooling cycle (VCC). Comparing with scroll and screw compressors, linear compressors are used in miniature-scale VCC cycle for small and portable applications such as electronics cooling systems. Linear micro-compressors exhibit high performance because they have fewer moving components and less frictional losses than other types. In this paper, a first-principle dynamic model has been developed to characterize the transient pressure, temperature, and fluid flow inside a linear micro-compressor. A theoretical analysis and a parametric study have been performed in this research to reveal the influence of the piston motion profile on the pressure and temperature changes inside the compression chamber. Moreover, the effect of changing piston velocity on the flow rate, pressure and temperature trends has been studied in this research.