Scroll Compressor Flange Groove for Thermal Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In scroll fluid machines, deformation due to thermal expansion causes the fixed and orbiting scrolls to contact, leading to reliability issues and reduced compression efficiency, as existing solutions either increase clearance between wraps or fail to absorb deformation effectively.
Innovation Solution
A scroll fluid machine design incorporating a deformation-absorbing flange with a recessed groove and projecting part on the fixed scroll's flange, which absorbs thermal expansion deformation, preventing wrap contact and maintaining compression efficiency without increasing clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If machining for preventing wrap contact is made larger to accommodate maximum deformation at highest temperature, then reliability is improved, but clearance between wraps becomes large in operation modes below maximum temperature, reducing compression efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed with a deformation absorbing part that allows dynamic adjustment to thermal expansion. The groove structure enables the flange to deform elastically under thermal stress, automatically adapting the clearance between wraps to match actual operating conditions rather than using a fixed oversized clearance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state of the flange from rigid to flexible by introducing a groove that allows elastic deformation. This parameter change enables the flange to absorb thermal expansion dynamically, maintaining optimal wrap clearance across different operating temperatures without requiring excessive machining
2Stability of the object's composition
If flange is fastened to casing to secure fixed scroll, then structural stability is improved, but thermal expansion deformation cannot be absorbed, causing wrap inclination and contact
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed with non-uniform structure: the groove is provided only in specific regions while other areas maintain rigid connections to the casing. This local quality differentiation allows targeted deformation absorption in the groove region while preserving overall structural stability through the rigid portions
3Reliability
If clearance between wraps is enlarged to prevent contact under maximum deformation, then reliability is improved, but compression efficiency deteriorates in normal operation modes
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation absorbing groove enables the flange to dynamically adjust the clearance between wraps based on actual thermal conditions. During high-temperature operation, the groove deforms to maintain adequate clearance and prevent contact, while during normal operation the groove remains less deformed, maintaining optimal compression efficiency without excessive clearance
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design enhances reliability and maintains compression efficiency by preventing contact between the fixed and orbiting scrolls, even at non-maximum temperatures, by effectively managing thermal deformation through the recessed groove and projecting part, thereby reducing the need for excessive machining and improving overall compressor performance.
Implementation Method 1
deformation due to thermal expansion of the end plate
Implementation Method 2
deformation absorbing part which absorbs deformation due to thermal expansion of the end plate
Data Source
AI summary
A scroll fluid machine includes: a casing; a fixed scroll having an end plate, a spiral wrap part provided on the end plate, and a flange provided outside the wrap part and fitted to the casing; and an orbiting scroll having an end plate and a spiral wrap part provided on the end plate with a plurality of compression chambers formed in a space up to the wrap part of the fixed scroll, which is provided to perform an orbiting motion, wherein the flange is provided with a deformation absorbing part which absorbs deformation due to thermal expansion of the end plate. The scroll fluid machine is improved in reliability while the compression efficiency is maintained by preventing the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll from coming into contact with each other without increasing a clearance between the wrap parts of both scrolls.