Scroll compressors, also known as spiral compressors, have been around since the early 1900s. However, these impressive compressors have risen in popularity recently as they operate quietly, are super compact, and demand minimal maintenance. This makes scroll compressors ideal for sensitive applications and environments. In this article, we will explore what a scroll compressor is, how it works, and why it is different from other compressors.
What is a Scroll Compressor?
Scroll compressors are a type of positive displacement compressor that compresses air using two interlocking scrolls or spirals. One of the scrolls is stationary, while the other rotates around it. As the rotating scroll moves, the pockets between the scrolls decrease in volume, which compresses air. The compressed air is then discharged through the centre of the stationary scroll. The continuous compression process in scroll compressors eliminates the need for clearance volumes that waste energy in other types of compressors.
What’s the Difference between a Scroll Compressor and a Regular Compressor?
The main difference between a scroll compressor and a regular compressor is the way they compress air. Scroll compressors use a unique scroll design consisting of a stationary and a moving scroll, which traps and compresses air as it moves along the spiral path towards the centre. In contrast, regular compressors use pistons or vanes to compress air in a linear motion. This makes scroll compressors more efficient, with higher volumetric efficiency and lower noise level, but they have a lower capacity than screw compressors and, therefore, are suited to applications under 11Kw.
Types of Scroll Compressors
Scroll compressors are air-cooled, oil-free compressors designed to eliminate the risk of oil contamination in sensitive applications such as medical devices and food processing. By combining air-cooling mechanisms with oil-free operation, these compressors provide clean, high-quality air whilst ensuring reliability and optimal performance.
Benefits of Scroll Compressors:
- Energy Efficiency: Scroll compressors are more energy-efficient than other compressors because they have a higher volumetric efficiency. This means they can compress more air in a given time, reducing energy consumption and making them more environmentally friendly.
- Low Noise Levels: Scroll compressors are known for their quiet performance because of their continuous compression process and use of fewer components. This makes them suitable for environments where noise reduction is crucial, such as medical spaces or noise-sensitive industrial settings.
- Minimal Vibration: The design of scroll compressors minimises vibration during operation. This contributes to quieter performance and helps extend the lifespan of the compressor and connected components.
- High Reliability and Low Maintenance: Scroll compressors are more reliable than other compressors because they have fewer parts that are subject to wear and tear and are less prone to leakage. This means that they require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.
- Compact Design: Scroll compressors are more compact than other compressors, which makes them ideal for use in small spaces. They are also lighter than other compressors, which makes them easier to install and transport.
- Smooth Operation: The design of scroll compressors results in smooth and continuous compression, leading to a steady air supply and fewer fluctuations in pressure, which can be important for certain applications.
- Oil-Free: Oil-free compressed air prevents contamination of products, processes, and equipment, leading to higher product quality, reduced risk of contamination, and lower maintenance costs associated with oil filtration and disposal.
Why Choose a Scroll Compressor?
Scroll compressors’ unique features, such as low noise and vibrations, set them apart from traditional air compressors, making them ideal for sensitive environments, including medical equipment, laboratories, electronics, and food and beverage settings. They typically cost less than rotary screw compressors and have a more compact size. However, with their lower capacity, scroll compressors are more suitable for small-scale industries and applications. Their efficient and reliable operation and reduced maintenance requirements make them stand out in industries where downtime is costly. Find out more (link to PE scroll page)
We are Pneumatic Engineering, a Western Australian compressor sales and servicing company based in Welshpool with over 45 years of experience supplying compressed air solutions. We stand out in the industry for having the flexibility and expertise to source, fix and maintain any compressor equipment. Contact us today for a chat or to schedule a site meeting for a compressed air analysis with one of our highly trained staff!
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