How Submarine Air Conditioners and Refrigerators Work During Submersion Without Air Input

While most people associate air conditioning with the process of cooling air, submarine air conditioning systems serve a special purpose. They are designed to maintain the necessary temperature and humidity levels within the submarine, even when submerged, without the constant input of air. This article explores how these systems work and how they maintain the comfort and habitability of submarine environments.

Submarine Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Principles

The air conditioning systems in submarines are fundamentally different from those in residential or commercial settings. Instead of directly cooling the air, submarine air conditioners function as water chillers. This means that the system uses chilled water to achieve its cooling effects.

How Water Chillers Work in Submarines

Submarines are equipped with large air conditioners that serve as water chillers. This chilled water is then distributed throughout the vessel via a network of underground pipes, feeding a series of spot coolers. Each spot cooler has an integrated electric heater, which allows the system to not only cool but also dehumidify the air. This dual function is crucial for maintaining comfortable and healthy living conditions within the submarine.

Seawater Cooling Systems

The key to this setup is the use of seawater as a coolant. Seawater is used to cool the condensers of the refrigeration systems. Since seawater is naturally much colder than the typical air temperatures in a submarine, it can effectively remove the heat from the refrigeration process. This allows the submarine to maintain a comfortable internal temperature even when submerged.

Adapting to Variable Temperatures

Given the dynamic nature of a submarine's environmental conditions, the climate control systems must be highly adaptable. When the outside temperature of the seawater is changing, the system may need to switch from cooling to heating the air. For example, on warmer days, the seawater is used to cool the condensers, while on colder days, the engine cooling water may be used to heat the sub and cold seawater to cool internal areas.

Refrigerating Seawater for Food Storage

In addition to maintaining habitable conditions, submarines need to ensure that food storage remains within safe temperatures. The methods used for food storage are similar to those found in a standard refrigerator. Air-cooled coils are used to maintain cold temperatures within the food storage compartments. This prevents the spoilage of food and ensures that it remains safe for consumption.

Conclusion

The air conditioning and refrigeration systems in submarines are designed to work in a unique and challenging environment. By utilizing the natural coldness of seawater, these systems can provide the necessary temperature and humidity control needed to maintain a comfortable living space underwater. Understanding these systems is key to appreciating the engineering and technological advancements that enable humans to live and work in such extreme conditions.

Keywords: submarine air conditioning, submarine refrigeration, seawater cooling