Importance

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Abstract

A refrigeration system includes a phase separator disposed in flow communication with a pulse width modulated solenoid valve. A thermistor is disposed in the phase separator and is submerged in either refrigerant liquid or refrigerant vapor during operation, with the electrical resistance thereof correspondingly changing. In an exemplary embodiment, a second thermistor is used in conjunction with the first thermistor and is disposed in the vapor inside the phase separator to provide a reference. By comparing voltage developed across the two thermistors during operation it may be determined whether one or both of the thermistors are submersed in the vapor. The duty cycle of the valve may therefore be increased when one of the thermistors is submerged in the liquid, and decreased when both thermistors are submersed in the vapor.

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First Claim