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1.2 Scroll Compressor Operating Characteristics
Panasonic scroll compressor is designed with fixed eccentric and tip seals for axial sealing, resulting in low
sound level and minimal gas leakage and therefore excellent efficiency. Separation of suction gas from the
discharge side reduces heat transfer, further improving efficiency.
The Figure 1-3 below describes the scroll compression process:
First orbit; SUCTION gas enters at the perimeter of the scroll elements and is sealed as the scrolls rotate
approximately one revolution.
Second orbit; During the COMPRESSION process, the gas is further compressed towards the center of the
scroll elements to an intermediate pressure.
Third orbit; In the DISCHARGE orbit, the gas is further compressed to discharge pressure and then exits at
the center through the discharge port.
With a three step simultaneous process of suction, compression and discharge and two gas pockets in each
step that are 180 degrees apart, the compression process is balanced and very smooth, resulting in high
efficiency, low sound/vibration and excellent reliability.
First Orbit: SUCTION
Second Orbit: COMPRESSION
Third Orbit: DISCHARGE
Figure 1-3