Mueller E-Star OESE 3.5 and 5 HP HFC Condensing Unit
Installation and Operation Manual, Part No. 8828747
Effective April 13, 2020
6.1 ACCUMULATOR HEAT EXCHANGER FUNCTIONS
The accumulator heat exchanger performs several functions on the E-Star OESE condensing unit:
•
Additional Subcooling:
The high-pressure liquid refrigerant from the condenser is subcooled 5–15°F (2.7–
8.5°C) as it passes through the heat exchanger coil in the bottom of the accumulator heat exchanger, which is
submerged in cold liquid refrigerant that has returned from the evaporator.
•
Vapor Return to the Compressor:
The accumulator heat exchanger evaporates accumulated liquid
returning from the evaporator, providing cool vapor refrigerant to the suction inlet of the compressor.
•
Oil Return to the Compressor:
Oil settles to the bottom of the accumulator and is returned to the
compressor through an orifice in the accumulator’s suction outlet.
I
MPORTANT: The Mueller accumulator heat exchanger utilizes a special “pancake” heat exchange
coil. The use of a generic (spiral) accumulator heat exchanger will severely reduce cooling capacity of
the E-Star OESE condensing unit and may cause premature compressor failure. Use genuine Mueller
replacement parts only.
FIGURE 9: ACCUMULATOR HEAT EXCHANGER
12
Section 6.0 – Accumulator Heat Exchanger
Suction Outlet
Oil Return Orifice
Heat Exchanger
Liquid Inlet
Suction Inlet
Liquid Outlet
The baffle in the suction inlet
directs the refrigerant to the
outer wall of the accumulator.
