Scroll Compressor VS Reciprocating Compressor-Everything You Need To Know About Them

Differentiating between a scroll compressor and a reciprocating compressor is a tough job for some.

You may be thinking about knowing which one among them is better so that you can choose one!!!

We are now going to be showing you a comparative analysis of the Scroll Compressor VS Reciprocating Compressor. In the end, we shall let you know our verdict.

Scroll Compressor

These compressors are specially designed to work in a circular motion instead of the regular up-down cylinder movement.

Scroll compressors are popular for their usage in HVAC(heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems.

There are two scrolls present on the compressor, one remains motionless and another scroll rotates using the swing link.

They are reliable and efficient compressors compared to other types.

Usefulness of a scroll compressor:

A scroll compressor has gained popularity by its application in commercial products.

The rightfulness of a scroll compressor and the minimum emitted sound have proven to be beneficial for many electronic manufacturing companies.

• Cooling Capacity

Scroll compressors are used in air conditioners as they have a great cooling capacity.

The small and transportable compressors are efficient and create less sound which improves customer feedback for the companies.

• Working Capacity

A scroll compressor has the ability to work properly even after heating.

We see many compressors that stop working after heating but for a scroll compressor, it isn’t the case! The working mechanism allows them to work properly and faultlessly in every aspect.

• Energy Efficiency

In terms of providing output energy compared to input, scroll compressors have their reputation intact.

The energy efficiency of scroll compressors is always spot on. They consume less and deliver more energy.

At full speed, their efficiency ranges from 83%-93%.

• Reduced Noise

Scroll compressors do not make that much of a noise. They are quiet, efficient, and work perfectly for any electrical or commercial equipment.

We all have seen Air Conditioners (ACs), do they make a lot of noise? No, they don’t.

ACs have scroll compressors installed in them and these compressors make them create less noise and are comfortable for us.

• Liquid Resistant

Scroll compressors can resist any type of liquid to an extent. The materials using which they are made are resistant to liquid.

Although they are not fully resistant to liquid. Any parts of the scroll compressor cannot be damaged using liquid substances

Reciprocating Compressor

Reciprocating compressors are suitable compressors to use for big construction sites and companies.

These compressors have a cylinder present in which a piston moves around in reciprocating motion.

Many oil refineries, automobile companies, and pharmaceutical companies use these types of compressors for their work.

Usefulness of a reciprocating compressor:

Reciprocating compressors are big in size and have a lot of usefulness. Mainly these are used to compress air and supply them at high pressure.

• Flexible Option

Reciprocating compressors come in with both oil-filled and oil-free types.

Also, we can use them as a tank or as a cylinder. You don’t have to depend on a single type for reciprocating cylinders.

• High Pressure Exertion

Looking for high-pressure output, reciprocating compressors are the best ones for you.

They can exert pressure up to 30,000 PSI, but they also can emit low pressure of 30-60 PSI depending on the input.

• Efficiency

These compressors can provide high energy compared to low input. It makes them more efficient for companies where high pressure is required by inputting low energy.

Comparative Analysis

In comparison between scroll compressors and reciprocating compressors, scroll compressors work great for modern-day electronic appliances and reciprocating compressors are excellent for companies, oil refineries, etc.

In terms of greater cooling capacity, scroll compressors are the best. Although reciprocating compressors compress gas but cannot supply enough cooling compared to scroll compressors.

Reciprocating compressors are excellent in terms of efficiency and cost management. They are affordable and can provide high efficient energy compared to scroll compressors.

We all hate high sounds, speaking of which, scroll compressors are fewer sound producers compared to reciprocating ones.

Frequently Asked Question/s

• Which compressor is more expensive?

Ans: Based on the comparison, scroll compressors are a bit more expensive than reciprocating compressors.

• Can you replace a scroll compressor with a reciprocating compressor?

Ans: Yes, you can. But make sure to contact someone skilled enough to do so.

• Can we rely on scroll compressors?

Ans: They are quite reliable compressors. These types of compressors are mainly used in Air Conditioning systems.

• How long do reciprocating compressors last?

Ans: They usually last around 12-14 years.

Final Verdict

As you have read our comparative analysis, it is clear that both the compressors are tremendous in their field of operation. But if we were to choose any one of them, we would go with scroll compressors, as they are easy to transport and small in size. They also run quieter and smoother than the reciprocating compressor.