Simulations of small reciprocating refrigeration compressors have been carried out by using one-, two- and three-dimensional formulations. In all approaches, the valve dynamics was described through a one-degree of freedom model, whereas a finite volume methodology was employed to discretize the governing flow equations. The valve dynamics and the time dependent flow field were coupled and solved simultaneously. Experimental data are used for an assessment of the accuracy of each model. The three-dimensional formulation allowed the inclusion of actual suction and discharge geometries in the simulation and served as the baseline to verify whether simpler and computationally less expensive models can satisfactorily predict the compressor performance. Results included in the analysis are p-V and T-V diagrams, valve displacement and pressure pulsation in the valve suction chamber.
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