A system and method for reducing temperature variation among components in a
multi-component
system. In this respect, component temperatures are controlled to remain relatively
constant (approximately within 5 C.) with respect to other components, while
allowing for multiple fluctuating heat loads between components. A refrigeration
system possessing a variable capacity (speed) compressor and a thermostatic expansion
valve is utilized to control the flow of refrigerant through the refrigeration
system. The temperatures of the components are reduced by metering the mass flow
rate of the refrigerant cooling the components to compensate for the heat load
applied to the refrigeration system. The temperature variation among the components
is reduced by supplemental heaters independently providing heat to each respective
component. In this regard, any relatively inactive, and therefore relatively cooler,
component with respect to other components, may be heated by that component's respective
supplemental heater, such that the temperature of the relatively inactive component
is not reduced below the specified temperature range.
