Page 7
The counterclockwise orbiting scroll draws gas into the outer
crescent shaped gas pocket created by the two scrolls (figure
9 − 1). The centrifugal action of the orbiting scroll seals off the
flanks of the scrolls (figure 9 − 2). As the orbiting motion contin-
ues, the gas is forced toward the center of the scroll and the
gas pocket becomes compressed (figure 9 − 3). When the
compressed gas reaches the center, it is discharged vertically
into a chamber and discharge port in the top of the compres-
sor (figure 8). The discharge pressure forcing down on the top
scroll helps seal off the upper and lower edges (tips) of the
scrolls (figure 8). During a single orbit, several pockets of gas
are compressed simultaneously providing smooth continuous
compression.
The scroll compressor is tolerant to the effects of liquid return.
If liquid enters the scrolls, the orbiting scroll is allowed to sepa-
rate from the stationary scroll. The liquid is worked toward the
center of the scroll and is discharged. If the compressor is re-
placed, conventional Lennox cleanup practices must be used.
Due to its efficiency, the scroll compressor is capable of draw-
ing a much deeper vacuum than reciprocating compres-
sors. Deep vacuum operation can cause internal fusite
arcing resulting in damaged internal parts and will result
in compressor failure. Never use a scroll compressor
for evacuating or pumping−down" the system. This
type of damage can be detected and will result in denial
of warranty claims.
The scroll compressor is quieter than a reciprocating com-
pressor, however, the two compressors have much differ-
ent sound characteristics. The sounds made by a scroll
compressor do not affect system reliability, performance,
or indicate damage.
See compressor nameplate and ELECTRICAL DATA
table on page 2 for compressor specifications.
1
2
3
4
SUCTION
POCKET
SUCTION
ORBITING SCROLL
STATIONARY SCROLL
SUCTION
SUCTION
DISCHARGE
POCKET
SUCTION
INTERMEDIATE PRESSURE
GAS
CRECENT SHAPED
GAS POCKET
HIGH PRESURE GAS
FLANKS SEALED
BY CENTRIFIGUAL
FORCE
MOVEMENT OF ORBIT
FIGURE 9