Modern heating and air conditioning systems come in many shapes and sizes depending on the applications they’re for, but it is the compressor that is probably the most important component in virtually all air conditioning systems across the globe. Compressors are in charge of transferring the air throughout the entire system, they eliminate humidity from the air, compress liquid, and remove and condense hot refrigerated gases within the HVAC system. That’s how important compressors are.
It’s no surprise that this is one of the fields of the air conditioning industry that’s seen the most development over the years, especially with the introduction of modern scroll compressors that perform the same tasks but in an improved and more efficient way. So, let’s take a closer look at what scroll compressors are, what different types exist, and what benefits they bring.
What Is a Scroll Compressor?
When it comes to the performance, the reliability, and the durability – there’s nothing better than a scroll compressor. They are the leading solution for industrial, commercial, and residential uses and their technology enables exceptional flexibility and very high operating efficiency.
Scroll compressors consist of two identical scrolls that are shaped like a spiral. One scroll is fixed and attached to the body of the compressor, while the other scroll is moving and follows a path clearly defined by the fixed scroll. This type of movement transports refrigerant vapor through pockets that get smaller and smaller while they get compressed. This results in the refrigerant reaching required pressure levels and temperatures before getting discharged.
What Are the Different Types of Scroll Compressors?
There are several different types of scroll compressors that function using the same underlying technology applied in various ways. Here are the main types of scroll compressors currently available on the market:
- Axially and radially compliant compressors
- Non-compliant compressors
- Single-stage compressors
- Dual-stage compressors
- Variable-speed compressors
What Are the Benefits of Scroll Compressors?
Among other types of compressors available today, scroll compressors stand out as the most technologically-advanced solution that brings numerous advantages to your customers. Here are the biggest advantages of scroll compressors:
Innovation
Scroll compressors are in charge of raising the technological bar across the entire air conditioning industry by providing a more durable, efficient, and effective alternative to standard AC compressors. Also, it comes in many different varieties, which offers your customers the chance to choose the type of compressor that suits their particular needs best. And that’s probably the most innovative thing about scroll compressors – their flexibility.
Flexibility and Performance
Speaking of flexibility, scroll compressors offer unmatched performance benefits that greatly stem from their innate flexibility to many different types of residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Scroll compressors come in varieties for different types of chillers, splits, and standard rooftop HVAC systems, making them an extremely versatile solution.
Durability
A scroll compressor features fewer moving parts when compared to standard heating and air conditioning compressors, which means there’s less to go wrong with them and they are a far more durable option for your customers.
Quiet Operations
Another benefit of the fewer number of moving parts is that scroll compressors are able to operate a lot more quietly than their traditional counterparts. They do not feature noisy valves that produce vibrations, and all your customers will probably hear is a slight hum as the compressor is doing its job.
Compact & Lightweight
Finally, one of the characteristics of scroll compressors that attribute to its versatility, flexibility, and efficiency is their compact design and small weight. Also, as the compressor is one of the most important components of an HVAC system, the small form factor of the scroll compressor allows the heating and cooling systems to become more lightweight and compact too.