Why Is It Called A Scroll Compressor?

scroll compressor is called a "scroll compressor" because of the geometry of its core components and its unique working principle, which can be analyzed from the following aspects:
I. Naming Basis: Structural Characteristics of scrolls
Geometric Shape of the scroll
The key components of the scroll compressor are rotating and stationary scrolls, both of which are composed of involute spiral blades. This spiral structure, in three dimensions, resembles a vortex (a spiral pattern like a tornado or shell) and is therefore known as a "scroll compressor."
Mathematical Principles
The spiral curve of the scroll is derived from the involute equation, whose mathematical expression is:
For base circle radius is r, for development angle. This curve ensures the continuous compression of multiple symmetrical crescent-shaped compression cavities when rotating and static scrolling grids are formed.
ii. How it works: Dynamic process of rolling motion
Composition of Compression Chambers
As the spinning scroll rotates (without rotation) in the center of the stationary scroll, the gap between the blades gradually narrows, forming a series of gradually closing cavities. These chambers move from the outside to the inside, decreasing in size and completing the process of gas intake, compression and emission.
Dynamic Analogy: Vortex Fluid Motion
During compression, the gas flows along a spiral path in the combustion chamber with a trajectory similar to that of a vortex fluid. The similarity of this dynamic further reinforces the rationale for the "scroll" name.
III. Technological Advantages and Naming Correlation
High High Sealing Efficiency
The spiral structure of the rolling body maintains a multiwirecontact seal during operation, and the leakage path resembles a spiral labyrinth, greatly reducing gas leakage and increasing volumetric efficiency (up to over 95%). This sealing characteristic is directly related to the "spiraling" shape of the scroll.
Low Vibration
The rotational rolling The translational motion distributes inertial forces evenly, the compression process is continuous and pulsating, and vibration amplitude is more than 40% less than reciprocating compressor. This smoothness is due to the symmetrical design of the scroll structure, which accords with the ``rotational symmetry"of the rolling structure.
Compact design
Inhalation / discharge valves are not required for Scroll compressors, and their moving parts consist only of rotating scrolls, eccentric axes and anti-rotating mechanisms, making them 60% smaller than reciprocating compressors of the same volume. This compactness is due to the stacked compression chamber layout of the scroll plates, which reflects the shape of the "3D scroll."
IV. INTRODUCTION Historical Sources: From Theory to Practice: Evolution of Nomenclature
Theoretical Origins (1905)
The concept of a scroll compressor was first proposed and patented by French engineer Créux. His design was based on isochoric compression theory, but it was not commercialized due to limitations of materials and manufacturing techniques at the time.
Technological Breakthrough (1970s)
With the development of CNC machining technology and high-precision bearings, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of Japan and Copeland of the United States have successfully mass-produced scroll compressors. The name gradually became the industry standard.
V. Comparison with Other Compressors: Nomenclature Logic
Compressor Type | Naming Basis | Advantages of Scroll Compressors
reciprocating motion | piston reciprocating motion | many moving parts, large vibration; Scroll has no reciprocating motion, smooth operation
Screw | Twin screw rotor meshing | Large size, high noise; Scroll compressor compact, low noise
Centrifugal | Impeller high-speed rotation | Requires high speed, suitable for large flow; Scroll can operate efficiently at low speed
Abstract: the name of ``rolling compressor"directly reflects the spiral shape and dynamic compression process of its core components. This nomenclature reflects both structural characteristics and technological advantages (high efficiency, low vibration, compactness). From mathematical principle to engineering application, the scroll design has achieved a breakthrough in refrigeration compression technology by simulating the natural spiral phenomenon.