General installation and maintenance instructions
SCROLL ENCLOSURE AIR COMPRESSOR
Manual n° 5.18396. VERSION 0 – GB
09/2007
Page 6 / 22
3.1. Compression
cycle
The Oil-less Rotary Scroll Air Compressor is based on the theory of scroll compression. A scroll is a free standing,
intricate spiral bounded on one side by a solid, flat plane or base. A scroll set, the basic compression element of a scroll
compressor, is made up of two identical spirals which form right and left hand parts. One of these scroll components is
indexed or phased 180° with respect to the other so the scrolls can mesh. Crescent-shaped gas pockets are formed and
bounded by the spirals and the base plate of both scrolls. As the moving scroll is orbited around the fixed scroll, the
pockets formed by the meshed scrolls follow the spiral toward the center and diminish in size. The moving scroll is
prevented from rotating during this process so the 180° phase relation-ship of the scrolls is maintained. The
compressor’s inlet is at the outer boundary of the scrolls. The entering gas is trapped in two completely opposite gas
pockets and compressed as the pockets move toward the center. The compressed gas is discharged through the outlet
at the center of the fixed scroll so no valves are needed.
3.2. Tip
seal
The tip seal on the scroll compressor is self-lubricated and allows the unit to operate efficiently without oil and expensive
filtration. The tip seal should be replaced every 10 000 hours (5 000 hours for high pressure models) of operation.
3.3. Bearings
The bearings on the scroll compressor are regreaseable to allow extended compressor life. Service should be performed
every 10,000 hours (5,000 hours for high pressure models) of operation.
3.4.
Air cooled after-cooler
The air cooled after-cooler on the scroll compressor is a series of deep alloy cooling fins and a high output cooling fan.
These cooling features allow the scroll compressor to provide a maximum discharge air temperature of 17°C above the
ambient temperature.
3.5.
Dry type inlet filter
The inlet filter on the scroll compressor assures 99% of particulate free air is admitted to the unit. Change every 2 500
hours or more often in dirty locations. These filters can be accessed from the front panel.
3.6.
Cooling air cleanable filter screen
The cooling air cleanable filter screen on the scroll compressor is located on the rear of the unit and should be cleaned
periodically.
3.7.
High temperature shutdown switch
The high temperature shutdown switch on the scroll compressor protects the unit when an unusually high temperature in
the air end is detected. The compressor will shutdown when this high temperature is detected.
SECTION 4.
INSTALLATION
4.1. Installation
site
The scroll compressor must be located in a clean, well lit and well ventilated area. A contaminated area can clog the
intake filter and/or intake metal mesh.
The area should be free of excessive dust, toxic or flammable gases, moisture and direct sunlight.
Never install the compressor where the ambient temperature is higher than 40°C or where humidity is high. High
humidity will cause electrical short circuit and rusting of components.
Clearance must allow for safe, effective inspection and maintenance. 1 meter of clearance for sides, 1 meter clearance
from the top is recommended.
If necessary, use metal shims or levelling pads to level the compressor. Never use wood to shim the compressor.
