Every year, countless tons of food are saved from spoilage thanks to the unsung hero behind the scenes: the commercial refrigeration compressor with its precise compression ratios. This critical component of the cold chain system efficiently manages the fluid—often water or a refrigerant—to maintain the necessary low temperatures. This critical component, known as commercial refrigerator compressors, is what keeps your local supermarkets and favorite restaurants stocked with fresh, safe-to-eat products through advanced refrigeration applications and technologies. These commercial compressors are essential in the refrigeration process. From compact units with high compression ratios humming in corner delis to massive screw compressors with optimal fluid handling dominating HVAC school training rooms, these devices vary wildly but share a common purpose—maintaining the chill that preserves and protects, all while managing oil levels and ensuring efficient flow rates. They’re not just boxes that buzz with commercial compressors; they’re guardians of gastronomy, warriors against waste, operating tirelessly with scroll and screw compressors in cold corners worldwide, all while maintaining an optimal compression ratio.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to upgrade your cooling system or a curious student at HVAC school, understanding how these compressors work is key to making informed decisions about refrigeration needs. Let’s dive into the frigid world of commercial refrigeration compressors and discover how size, power, and technology converge to keep our edibles impeccably icy.
Core Functions of Refrigeration Compressors in Commercial Settings
After exploring what commercial refrigeration compressors are, let’s delve into their essential roles. Commercial compressors are pivotal in maintaining product freshness and enabling the refrigeration cycle.
Maintain Low Temperatures
Keeping food fresh is crucial. The compressor in an enterprise refrigeration unit plays a key role here, often requiring specialized refrigeration fix services to maintain optimal performance. The commercial compressor works tirelessly to maintain low temperatures, ensuring that perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products stay fresh longer. Imagine a supermarket without a commercial compressor; shelves would be filled with spoiled items quickly. By controlling temperature precisely, these compressors help prevent food waste and protect public health.
For example, ice cream must be kept at -20°F to stay firm and hold its shape. A reliable compressor maintains this low temperature consistently despite frequent door openings which can cause fluctuations.
Circulate Refrigerant
The heart of any cooling system is its ability to handle energy by moving fluid around. In commercial refrigerators, the compressor circulates refrigerant through the system’s pipes and coils, a process often maintained by professional Refrigeration Fix Services. This process is vital for absorbing heat from inside the refrigerator and releasing it outside.
As the refrigerant travels through different components, it changes state from liquid to gas and back again. These phase changes are part of what keeps your drinks cold in a vending machine or your salad crisp in a restaurant’s display case.
A well-functioning compressor ensures that this circulation happens smoothly without hiccups or inefficiencies which could lead to increased energy bills or worse – a broken refrigerator full of spoiled food.
Compress Vapor
Pressure makes all the difference. When vapor inside the compressor is squeezed or compressed, its pressure rises along with its temperature. This might sound counterintuitive when you’re trying to cool something down! But it’s an essential step before releasing heat into the environment.
Once compressed, the hot vapor moves through condenser coils where it loses heat and turns back into a liquid form ready for another round of cooling action inside the fridge.
This process not only keeps everything chilled but also ensures that energy usage is as efficient as possible by recycling heat instead of wasting it.
Types and Applications of Commercial Refrigeration Compressors
Commercial refrigeration compressors are vital for cooling systems in various industries. They come in different types, each suited to specific applications.
Reciprocating Compressors
Reciprocating compressors are common in commercial refrigeration. They work by using pistons driven by a crankshaft to compress the refrigerant. Picture a small engine in your car, but instead of powering wheels, it’s chilling food.
These compressors excel in:
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Supermarkets
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Small cold rooms
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Restaurant kitchens
Their design makes them ideal for situations where the demand varies throughout the day. For example, a supermarket’s cooler needs to work harder during the day when doors are constantly opening and closing.
Screw Compressors
Screw compressors use two interlocking screws that rotate to compress gas. Think of two large drills twisting together, trapping and squeezing air between them.
They’re known for their durability and efficiency, making them perfect for:
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Large cold storage warehouses
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Industrial freezing facilities
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Food processing plants
Because they handle large volumes of refrigerant effectively, they keep vast spaces at consistent temperatures. A big warehouse storing frozen foods relies on enterprise refrigeration and its screw compressors to maintain its chilly climate 24/7.
Centrifugal Compressors
Centrifugal compressors operate differently. They use a rapidly rotating disk to fling refrigerant outward, increasing its pressure through centrifugal force—imagine spinning a bucket of water without spilling any.
These units are used in specialized applications like:
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Large-scale chilled water systems
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Chemical processing plants
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Central air conditioning systems for huge buildings
A skyscraper’s central cooling system might use this type to efficiently pump chilled water through its many floors.
Blast Freezing Uses
Blast freezing is an intense cooling process requiring robust compressors. It quickly brings down the temperature of food products to preserve freshness and quality.
For this purpose, reciprocating or screw compressors are typically employed because they can achieve:
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Ultra-low temperatures rapidly
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Better texture preservation in frozen foods
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Extended shelf life for perishable items
A seafood company might use blast freezers with these compressors right after harvest ensuring fish stays as fresh as possible until it reaches your plate.
Choosing the Right Compressor for Commercial Refrigeration
After exploring various types of compressors, it’s crucial to select one that aligns with your commercial needs. The right choice ensures efficiency and reliability in your refrigeration system.
Load Requirements Matter
The first step in choosing a commercial refrigeration compressor is understanding load requirements. A compressor must match the demands of your refrigeration tasks. If you run a large supermarket, you’ll need a robust system capable of cooling vast spaces efficiently. For smaller operations like boutique eateries, a less powerful compressor might suffice.
Consider the temperature ranges required for different products. Meat and dairy need lower temperatures than fruits and vegetables. Selecting a compressor that can’t reach low enough temperatures could lead to food spoilage, which is both costly and unsafe.
Temperature consistency is another factor. Some items are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. A high-quality compressor maintains consistent temperatures, preventing damage to delicate goods.
Compatibility Is Key
Next up is assessing compatibility with existing systems. It makes sense to choose a compressor that works well with what you already have in place. This avoids unnecessary costs and complications during installation.
Check if the new compressor supports the suction pressure levels of your current system. Mismatched pressure can cause inefficiency or even damage components over time.
Also, consider refrigerant types when evaluating compatibility. Different compressors work with specific refrigerants—some are more eco-friendly than others.
Maintenance and Longevity
Lastly, think about maintenance needs and longevity when picking a compressor for commercial use. A reliable unit reduces downtime due to repairs or breakdowns with planned maintenance.
Look at warranties as an indicator of lifespan expectations; longer warranties often suggest better durability.
Regular maintenance checks keep systems running smoothly but choose models known for easy upkeep. This means fewer disruptions in daily operations due to planned maintenance—a huge plus for any business owner!
Sizing and Capacity for Walk-In Freezer Compressors
Choosing the right compressor for your walk-in freezer is crucial. It ensures efficient operation and longevity of your commercial refrigeration system.
Calculate Cubic Space
When sizing a compressor, the volume of your walk-in freezer is a key factor. Measure length, width, and height to determine cubic space. This forms the basis of your capacity needs.
High-quality insulation reduces the load on the compressor. Check insulation R-value; higher numbers mean better performance. A well-insulated room requires a less powerful compressor.
Door Opening Frequency
The number of times doors open impacts temperature control. Frequent openings let warm air in, increasing workload.
Commercial settings with high traffic need robust compressors. Consider door type and sealing efficiency as well. Proper seals minimize cold air escape during openings.
Oversizing vs Undersizing
Getting the size right is a balancing act. Both oversizing and undersizing have downsides.
Oversized compressors cycle off too quickly, leading to inefficiency. They can cause more wear and increase energy costs over time.
Undersized units struggle to maintain desired temperatures. They run continuously, shortening lifespan and risking food safety.
Noise Levels in Commercial Freezer Compressors
After discussing the importance of sizing and capacity for walk-in freezer compressors, it’s crucial to consider another aspect that impacts daily operations: noise levels. Noise can affect the workplace environment and must comply with regulations.
Workplace Impact
Every commercial kitchen or facility values a comfortable working atmosphere. High noise levels from a commercial refrigeration compressor can lead to employee discomfort. It might even decrease productivity. Staff in noisy environments often report higher stress levels and difficulty concentrating.
Some employees may develop hearing-related issues over time. This is especially true if they are exposed to loud noises constantly without proper ear protection. Businesses need to be aware of corporate information as it can lead to health claims or staff turnover.
Noise pollution regulations also come into play. Many areas have strict guidelines on the maximum noise level allowed in workspaces. Exceeding these limits could result in fines or legal challenges for businesses.
Decibel Ratings
Compressors come with specific decibel (dB) ratings indicating their noise output level. These ratings help buyers understand how loud a unit will be when operational.
A quiet office typically has a background noise of about 40 dB, while a conversation at home ranges around 50 dB. In contrast, some commercial refrigeration compressors can operate at levels exceeding 60 dB, which is comparable to heavy traffic noise.
Selecting a compressor with a lower decibel rating is advisable for businesses concerned about noise control. Models vary widely, so reviewing technical specifications before purchasing is essential.
Soundproofing Solutions
Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate the issue of noisy compressors. Soundproofing solutions include:
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Installing sound blankets around the compressor.
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Placing the unit away from workspaces or customer areas.
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Using anti-vibration mounts to reduce noise transmission through building structures.
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Designating an enclosed space solely for housing refrigeration equipment.
Businesses sometimes overlook installations and sales strategies during initial setup but find them invaluable later on when addressing complaints regarding excessive noise.
Energy Efficiency in Industrial Refrigeration Compressors
After discussing noise levels, it’s vital to consider another crucial aspect of commercial refrigeration compressors: energy efficiency. This Service Catalog feature not only affects the environment but also has a significant impact on operational costs.
Operational Cost Impacts
Energy consumption is a major expense for businesses that rely on industrial refrigeration. These systems are often running non-stop, which means they can be one of the largest consumers of electricity within an organization. When companies invest in high-efficiency models, they see a decrease in their electricity usage. This reduction translates into lower utility bills month after month, providing long-term savings that can make a big difference to the bottom line.
For example, consider a large grocery store chain that operates hundreds of refrigerators 24/7. By switching to high-efficiency compressors, they could reduce their energy use by thousands of kilowatts per year—saving substantial amounts in operational costs.
High-Efficiency Models
High-efficiency commercial refrigeration compressors are designed with advanced technology to minimize energy waste. They often include features like variable speed fans and improved compression ratios which allow them to operate more effectively. A better compression ratio means the compressor can achieve the same cooling effect while using less energy.
These models may cost more upfront but provide significant savings over time through reduced energy bills. In many cases, these savings outweigh the initial investment within just a few years.
Businesses should consider adopting a strategic methodology by conducting an energy audit or consulting with experts who can recommend specific models that would best suit their needs while maximizing efficiency gains.
Governmental Energy Standards
When selecting a new compressor for your commercial refrigeration needs, governmental energy standards play an important role in guiding decisions. These standards, often assessed during Energy Performance Reviews, are set to encourage businesses to purchase equipment that consumes less power—embracing Green Building Techniques—and thus contributes less environmental strain.
In some regions, there might even be incentives or rebates available for companies that choose equipment meeting certain energy efficiency criteria. Staying informed about corporate information and these standards, along with potential financial benefits, helps businesses employ a strategic methodology to make smarter purchasing decisions while contributing positively towards sustainability goals and boosting newsletter subscriptions.
It’s essential for buyers to understand both current regulations and where those might head in the future so they can invest wisely in technology that won’t become obsolete or non-compliant too quickly.
Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Refrigeration Systems
After discussing energy efficiency, it’s crucial to address the environmental impact of commercial refrigeration compressors. The shift towards sustainability in refrigeration systems is not just about cutting costs but also about protecting our planet.
Natural Refrigerants Use
Refrigeration systems are essential for preserving food quality and maintaining cold chain integrity. Yet, traditional refrigerants have been harmful to the environment. Now, there’s a push for using natural substances like CO2 or ammonia. These natural refrigerants don’t deplete the ozone layer or contribute significantly to global warming.
For example, CO2 (carbon dioxide) is gaining popularity as a refrigerant due to its low environmental impact. It has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1, which is far lower than traditional HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons). Ammonia, another excellent choice, has been used effectively in industrial settings for years. It boasts zero GWP and superior thermodynamic properties that enhance system efficiency in energy handling.
Lower GWP Options
The move towards lower GWP options reflects the industry’s commitment to sustainability. Lower GWP refrigerants reduce environmental risks and align with international regulations aimed at combating climate change.
Manufacturers now offer hermetic and semi-hermetic compressors designed for these eco-friendlier alternatives. They operate at various temperatures suitable for different applications while minimizing their ecological footprint. By choosing these options, businesses can ensure they’re part of the solution in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Renewable Energy Integration
Commercial refrigeration systems can now integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. This synergy creates an environmentally responsible cold chain that reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Imagine a supermarket where all the fridges and freezers run on solar power generated from panels on the roof. Not only does this reduce electricity bills but also shrinks the store’s carbon footprint dramatically.
Integration with renewables isn’t just a concept; it’s becoming a reality in many parts of the world where sunlight or wind availability makes such solutions feasible and cost-effective.
Advanced Technologies in Commercial Refrigeration Compressors
Commercial refrigeration compressors are now smarter and more efficient. They adapt to demand, offer precision control, and integrate with modern technologies.
Smart Compressors
Smart commercial refrigerator compressors have changed the game. They use IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity to keep an eye on their own performance. What does this mean? Well, imagine a compressor that sends real-time data to your smartphone or computer. This communication portal allows for immediate adjustments and alerts if something goes wrong.
For instance, a smart compressor might notice it’s working harder than usual. It could be due to a door left open or a system leak. With IoT technology, you get notified instantly. You can fix issues before they lead to bigger problems like food spoilage or high energy bills.
Variable Speed Drives
Next up are variable speed drives (VSDs). These clever devices adjust how hard the compressor works based on what’s needed at any given time. If there’s less demand for cooling, like at night, the VSD slows down the compressor. When it gets busier and warmer during the day, it speeds back up.
Why is this cool (pun intended)? Because it saves energy! Instead of running full blast all day, commercial refrigeration adjusts its effort. This can lead to significant cost savings over time.
Digital Controls
Precision is key in commercial refrigeration. That’s where digital controls come in handy for refrigeration technologies. These controls manage temperatures with pinpoint accuracy ensuring your products stay fresh without wasting energy.
Digital controls also mean reliability is through the roof! Gone are the days of manual knobs that could easily be bumped or misadjusted leading to frozen lettuce or melted ice cream.
Maximizing Efficiency in Commercial Refrigeration
In commercial refrigeration, efficiency is key. Incorporating green building techniques, regular maintenance, and system upgrades can greatly reduce energy consumption.
Regular Maintenance Matters
A commercial refrigerator works hard to keep products cold. Like any machine, it needs regular check-ups. These check-ups prevent small issues from becoming big problems that waste energy. For example, a dirty condenser coil makes the compressor work harder. This uses more electricity.
Think of it like a car’s oil change schedule. Just as you wouldn’t skip an oil change for your vehicle, you shouldn’t neglect your refrigeration system’s maintenance needs.
Here are some maintenance tasks that save energy:
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Cleaning the condenser coils
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Checking the thermostat accuracy
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Ensuring door seals are tight
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Inspecting the insulation
Retailers who stick to a maintenance schedule often see lower utility bills, thanks to effective Energy Management Solutions. Regular Energy Performance Reviews can ensure efficient Installations and Sales, while Newsletter Subscriptions keep businesses informed on maintaining optimal energy use. Their equipment also tends to last longer.
Retrofitting Boosts Performance
Older refrigerators can be energy hogs. But they can learn new tricks! Retrofitting means adding modern parts to older systems. This improves their efficiency without replacing the entire unit.
For instance, installing a variable speed drive on the compressor adjusts its speed based on demand. This means less energy use during slower periods.
Upgrading fans and lighting within units can also make a difference:
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LED lights use less power than traditional bulbs.
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ECM (electronically commutated motor) fans are more efficient than standard motors.
These changes in our Energy Management Solutions enhance performance and cut down on operating costs, as reflected in our Service Catalog and Client Directory.
Insulation Is Key
The best commercial refrigeration compressor won’t help if warm air leaks in or cold air seeps out. Proper insulation and sealing are crucial in maintaining efficiency.
Insulation keeps the cold inside where it belongs. It reduces the workload on the compressor by maintaining consistent temperatures with minimal fluctuation—this aids in achieving optimal mass flow rate for cooling efficiency.
Sealing gaps around doors is just as important:
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Check gaskets regularly for wear and tear.
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Replace worn-out door sweeps.
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Use strip curtains to minimize air exchange when doors open frequently.
Every bit of thermal loss prevented translates into savings on energy bills for businesses using freezers and refrigerators extensively.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of commercial refrigeration compressors within HVAC System Services, you’ve seen how crucial they are for your business. From keeping perishables fresh to ensuring seamless operation, choosing the right compressor is like picking a trusted sidekick—it’s got to be reliable, efficient, and fit just right. You’ve learned about different types, how to size them up, and ways to keep energy costs down. Remember, it’s not just about staying cool; it’s about being smart with your green while going green, driven by your core motivation.
Ready to upgrade or install a new system? Don’t let decision paralysis freeze you in place. Dive in, select the best compressor for your needs, and watch your business chill out on the energy bills. Reach out to a professional for HVAC System Services today and take the first step towards a cooler, more sustainable future by accessing our Client Directory. Let’s make your cold storage solutions as smooth as ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main role of a commercial refrigeration compressor, such as hermetic compressors or scroll compressors, in managing refrigerant gas within coolers?
The heart of the system, a commercial refrigeration compressor’s main role is to pump refrigerant and maintain adequate pressure for heat exchange, keeping your goods perfectly chilled.
How do I choose the right hermetic or scroll compressor for my commercial fridge’s refrigeration applications?
Select a compressor based on your fridge’s size, temperature needs, and type of goods stored. It’s like picking the best engine for your car – it must fit and run efficiently, driven by your core motivation.
Can different compressors, with varying compression ratios and refrigeration technologies, be used for diverse applications in commercial settings, considering the suction pressure and fluid dynamics?
Absolutely! Compressors come in various types like scroll, screw, and reciprocating. Each has its own superpower—some are great sprinters for quick cooling while others are marathon runners for steady temps.
Why should I consider energy efficiency in a commercial refrigerator compressor, especially regarding its compression ratios, within the cold chain system where fluid dynamics play a crucial role?
An energy-efficient compressor saves you money faster than a sale at your favorite store. It slashes electric bills and reduces environmental impact.
Are there quiet options for walk-in freezer compressors?
Yes, some compressors hum along quietly like librarians at work. Look for models with low decibel ratings to keep noise levels down.
What advancements have been made in commercial refrigeration compressors?
Today’s compressors are smarter than ever—think smartphones but colder. They boast digital controls, variable speed drives, and IoT connectivity through a communication portal to maximize efficiency.
How can I make my commercial refrigeration more sustainable?
Opt for systems using natural or low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants. It’s like choosing a bike over a car—a greener choice for our planet.
The compressor is a vital part of your refrigeration system. But what exactly is it? What does it do? And how do you know which type is best for your equipment and system?
Here, we’ll explore all you need to know about industrial and commercial refrigeration compressors.
What is a refrigeration compressor?
A refrigeration compressor is an integral part of refrigeration equipment – industrial and commercial alike.
Its role is to transport the refrigerant – also known as the working fluid – through the refrigerant circuit. It does this by compressing the refrigerant coming in from the suction side and pushing it to high pressure and temperature.
The pressure and temperature changes that the refrigerant experiences cause it to absorb heat, boil and turn into gas – before releasing this heat and condescending back into a fluid.
This process is fittingly known as the vapour compression cycle.
Without the compressor, this journey wouldn’t take place, the refrigerant wouldn’t change state, and your refrigeration system wouldn’t be able to do its job of cooling. So, the compressor really is at the heart of the whole refrigeration process.
What are the different types of commercial refrigeration compressors?
There are two main types of refrigeration compressors: dynamic and positive displacement.
The difference lies in how they compress the refrigerant.
Dynamic compressors compress a refrigerant by increasing its speed, using a high-speed rotor. They then convert speed to pressure in the diffuser.
Meanwhile, positive displacement compressors compress the refrigerant by collecting it in a chamber and then reducing the chamber’s volume.
Positive displacement compressors are complex devices, but they’re much more straightforward from a control automation standpoint.
Dynamic compressors can stall, which can lead to a surge. Essentially, when the compressor stalls, it no longer has any force to resist the pressure increase it’s created so the gas starts to move to the area of lower pressure.
On the other hand, a positive displacement compressor isn’t prone to stall and can’t surge, so it requires much less attention.
Having said that, there are several different types of compressors that fall into the positive displacement category. These also fall into two main groups.
Reciprocating compressors
Also known as piston compressors, these use the reciprocating motion of a piston to compress the refrigerant inside the cylinder. The piston is moved using a crankshaft with an electric motor.
These compressors:
- Have a more constant flow thanks to inlet and exhaust valves
- Use silent-block to counter the high vibrations
- Have a connection for oil balancing
- Can be mounted on an individual, tandem, trio or tack basis
Reciprocating compressors come in three key types.
1. Hermetic
Hermetic compressors are used in small commercial applications.
You can easily identify them as they have a single case that’s completely sealed and contains both the compressor and drive motor. This prevents any potential refrigerant leaks from occurring.
That said, they have a couple of downsides. Firstly, refrigerants like ammonia can’t be used as they can damage the materials it’s made of. And secondly, these compressors can’t be repaired after a breakdown.
2. Semi-hermetic
Semi-hermetic compressors are mainly used in commercial settings.
They’re made up of two separate housings, which means this time you can access the compressor to maintain and repair it.
However, the motor and the refrigerant do come into contact, so not all refrigerants can be used with this kind of compressor. Plus, there’s a higher chance of refrigerant leaks occurring.
3. Open
Here, the motor and compressor are divided into two independent modules, linked by a mechanical transmission.
This means the compressor can be easily accessed for repair and maintenance, and the construction prevents vapours from overheating before they enter the cylinder. Better still, these compressors can accommodate any refrigerant fluid.
That said, they do come with a higher risk of refrigerant leaks.
Rotary compressors
This group of positive displacement compressors don’t have suction valves, which makes for a continuous compression flow.
These compressors also rely heavily on oil for lubricating and sealing.
There are several different types of rotary compressors – you can tell them apart by their differing motor movement. Here are three of the most common.
Paletas
Here, the movement of the motor shaft is driven by the refrigerant fluid itself, which fills the space between the compressor rotor and stator.
As the space decreases at the point of minimum diameter inside the compressor, the refrigerant gets compressed.
These compressors have a spring-loaded vane in a slot in the cylinder, hence why they’re also known as vane compressors. This spring divides the compressors’ suction phase and discharge chamber.
Scroll
Scroll compressor types are centred around the orbital movement of a spiral.
These compressors are constructed from two like-for-like spirals, known as the stator and the rotor. The stator, which is top and fixed, has an exhaust port at its centre. Meanwhile, the lower spiral, known as the rotor, orbits inside the stator.
As it does so, the movement of the fluid pockets within the walls causes it to move inwards, which then increases its pressure.
Screw
Screw type compressors are used in industrial applications for medium and high power ranges.
They’re formed of two conjugated rotors – one ‘male’ and one ‘female.’ The male rotor is coupled to the electric motor and forms lobes while the female rotor has alveoli. Meanwhile, a part called a slide opens and closes the access of the refrigerant to the rotors to vary the power.
These compressors have an oil separator and oil injection control, as they rely on a direct injection of oil at a controlled temperature to lubricate them. This oil also provides sealing and absorbs the heat of compression.
Choosing a commercial refrigeration compressor
Screw compressors are currently the most widely used type of compressor in industrial refrigeration – although reciprocating processors were the most popular not so long ago.
It’s your system designer’s job to determine the best compressor for your needs. But here are some factors to consider all the same.
1. Cooling capacity
A single screw can provide more cooling capacity than a reciprocating compressor. This is one of the reasons why screw compressors are proving most popular in industrial settings today.
However, it’s important to assess the cooling capacity of your system with your operating conditions in mind.
This includes:
- Minimum condensing temperature (which affects the lubrication of your compressor)
- Maximum condensing temperature (which affects the maximum compressor pressure)
- Maximum evaporation temperature (which affects high mass flow rate, connecting rods and excessive force on bearings)
- Low evaporating temperature (which affects low gas density and insufficient cooling of the engine)
2. Cost
Screw compressors cost more than reciprocating compressors.
However, only one screw compressor is usually needed, whereas above certain capacities, you may need several alternatives. This can make a screw compressor the lower-cost option overall.
On top of this, screw compressors typically come with low maintenance costs.
3. Energy efficiency
Reciprocating compressors are more efficient than screw compressors, both at full and part load.
This makes them a viable alternative to the more widely used screw compressor in industrial refrigeration.
Higher energy efficiency can lead to lower energy bills and reduce your impact on the environment.
4. Noise
Screw compressors tend to vibrate less than reciprocating compressors, as they’re not unbalanced in the same way. This can make them less noisy.
However, reciprocating compressors use silent-block to counter the high vibrations.
These are just factors to bear in mind – your system designer will be able to design a system for you that meets any necessary noise restrictions.
5. Size
Some compressors are more compact than others. So, if space is at a premium in your business premises, size could be a deciding factor.
For instance, hermetic compressors have just one case containing both the compressor and drive motor, and are usually used in small commercial applications.
6. Refrigerant choice
As we’ve touched upon already, not all refrigeration compressors can be used with every refrigerant.
Refrigerants largely fall into two groups: natural and synthetic.
Synthetic refrigerants, by which we’re largely referring to HFCs and HFOs, tend to be harmful F-gases, with a global warming potential (GWP) of several thousand. They also release dangerous ‘forever chemicals’ called PFAS into the environment, which poison wildlife and, in some areas, also endanger human health.
On the other hand, natural refrigerants are low-GWP, clean and non-toxic. They’re also high-performing and have become widely adopted by the refrigeration industry.
Choosing a compressor that can be used with natural refrigerants like propane and CO2 is the best way to lower your business’ carbon footprint. It will also protect your business from regulatory updates that could risk your refrigeration system becoming a stranded asset in the future.
Let us worry about refrigeration compressors for you
At Clade, we can design, manufacture, install and maintain your commercial refrigeration system for you so that you don’t have to worry.
Our system designers will take the time to understand your business’ needs, and will pick out the best compressor for you as part of a larger system design tailored to your requirements.
As a certified B Corp, we only work with natural refrigerants. So, when you work with us, you know you’re having a positive impact on both people and the planet.
