The difference between screw compressor and scroll compressor

Screw compressors and scroll compressors are two common types of compressors, which are significantly different in terms of structure, working principle and application scenarios.

structure and working principle:

screw compressor: screw compressor is mainly composed of a pair of parallel configuration of the male and female rotor (screw). The two rotors mesh with each other in the body to form a unique working chamber. With the rotation of the rotor, the volume of the working chamber changes continuously, thus realizing the process of air suction, compression and discharge. Screw compressor has the characteristics of few parts, high stability and long service life.

Scroll compressor: The main components of the scroll compressor are two involute scroll coils with the same shape but the angular phase position is staggered by 180 °. When the eccentric shaft rotates clockwise, the gas enters the suction chamber from the suction port, and is successively ingested into the outer crescent-shaped air chamber communicating with the suction chamber. With the closure of these peripheral crescent-shaped air cavities and no longer in communication with the suction cavity, the closed volume is gradually transferred to the center of the fixed volume and continues to shrink, the gas is continuously compressed and the pressure increases. Scroll compressor has the characteristics of small torque change, high balance, small vibration, stable operation and low noise.

Application Scenarios:

screw compressor: Screw compressors are most frequently used in large central air-conditioning hosts, and are also widely used in other scenarios that require high air volume and high pressure. The energy efficiency of the screw machine is relatively high. Under the same cooling capacity, the screw machine saves more than 25% of the energy than the piston machine. In addition, the screw compressor also performs well in terms of operability, power balance and adaptability, and is suitable for a variety of working conditions.

Scroll compressors: Scroll compressors are used in low-power scenarios, such as small refrigeration units (including modular machines, home air conditioners, etc.). It is more efficient at low gas volume, less noise, and can reduce the impact on the production environment. In addition, the structure of the scroll compressor is relatively simple and the maintenance cost is low.

In summary, the screw compressor and the scroll compressor each have their own advantages and applicable scenarios. When selecting, it should be based on specific needs (such as gas volume, pressure, energy efficiency, etc.) and budget and maintenance costs and other factors to consider.