There are various types of refrigeration compressors, which can be classified into multiple categories based on their working principles, structural forms, application scenarios, and other dimensions. The performance and adaptability of products in different categories vary significantly, and accurate classification is the basis for selection and application. The most mainstream classification method in the industry currently is based on working principles, mainly divided into two categories: volumetric refrigeration compressors and centrifugal refrigeration compressors, with volumetric compressors occupying the mainstream market share.
The positive displacement refrigeration compressor compresses refrigerant vapor by changing the working chamber volume. Its core advantage is that it is suitable for medium and low temperature, small and medium-sized refrigeration scenarios, with a relatively simple structure and strong operational stability. It can be further divided into piston type, screw type, vortex type, rolling rotor type, etc. Piston compressors have a long history, high pressure resistance, adaptability to multiple working fluids, and are mostly used in industrial refrigeration and large-scale air conditioning; Screw compressors have a compact structure, low vibration, and high energy efficiency, and are widely used in medium and large-scale scenarios such as central air conditioning and industrial refrigeration; Vortex compressors have low noise, smooth operation, and high volumetric efficiency, making them the mainstream choice for household air conditioning and small commercial refrigeration equipment; The rolling rotor compressor has a small volume and light weight, and is suitable for lightweight equipment such as small refrigerators and mobile air conditioners.
Centrifugal refrigeration compressors transfer kinetic energy to the refrigerant through high-speed rotating impellers, achieving steam compression. They are suitable for large-scale refrigeration scenarios and have the characteristics of large refrigeration capacity, high efficiency, and smooth operation. They are mostly used in large central air conditioning, industrial refrigeration units, etc. However, their adaptability to changes in operating conditions is weak, and the initial investment cost is high. In addition, according to the cooling method, it can be divided into air-cooled and water-cooled types, and according to the sealing form, it can be divided into open, semi closed, and fully closed types. Different classification dimensions can help accurately match application needs.
