Scroll Air Compressors: Choosing the Right Technology
Meet the performance and air purity requirements of your application by selecting the right air compression technology. Rotary scroll air compressors are modern solutions when it comes to oil free compressed air applications, they provide quiet, reliable operation. Let JHFOSTER experts who specialize in air compression systems help guide your selection process.
Scroll Compressors:
Oil-less scroll compressors serve specialized applications due to their oil free pump design, distinct working principles and operating mechanisms.
Scroll Compressor Working Principle
Mechanism: Scroll compressors use one fixed spiral (the scroll) and one orbiting spiral to trap and compress air. This design creates a crescent-shaped cavity that is gradually reduced, leading to compression. Self lubricating tip seals provide efficient flow without oil in the chamber.
Application focus: Ideal for low- to mid-volume needs where 100% oil-free air is non-negotiable, such as medical, lab and dental applications, as well as industrial applications such as supplying oil free compressed air to 3d printers.
Scroll Compressors: Pros, Cons and Performance
Scroll Compressor Pros
- Inherently oil-free: Scroll compressors deliver the cleanest air possible without extensive filtration.
- Quiet operation: Extremely low vibration and sound levels, ideal for placement near workers or labs.
- Continuous duty: Designed for continuous duty operation.
- Energy efficient: Efficient oil free design with simple start-stop operation during low demand periods
- Packaged systems: Including multiple compressors, dryers and filtration, offer built-in redundancy for critical applications.
Scroll Compressor Cons
- Limited CFM: This is the main disadvantage of scroll compressors. CFM limitations make them unsuitable for large-scale industrial use.
- Pressure limits: Scroll compressors generally max out at lower pressures compared to rotary screw models.
- Maintenance needs: Most scroll compressors require an overhaul at 10,000 hours.
When to choose a Scroll Compressor? Aligning with JHFOSTER’s Expertise
Rotary scroll compressors are a proven, effective technology and when applied properly will provide optimal performance. JHFOSTER’s expertise lies in helping you choose the right oil-free or oil-flooded rotary compressor system for your specific application.
When is a scroll compressor better?
Scroll compressors are the ideal choice when air quality is critical, such as a 100% oil-free requirement, and the volume requirement is modest (typically under 50 CFM). They are also the best choice when low noise is a necessity. Scroll compressors are the most cost-effective and reliable option for smaller, localized clean-air applications.
Your Compressed Air Partner
At JHFOSTER, we provide the necessary expertise to evaluate your application and your air demand and ensure you invest in the right technology. Contact us today to speak with a compressed air expert about upgrading to a more efficient and effective oil-flooded or oil-free compressed air system for your operation.
