Comparison of the influence of energy losses on efficiencies of a scroll compressor and a reciprocating compressor used in heat pumps

Abstract

This paper presents the comparison of the influence of energy losses on the efficiencies of a scroll compressor and a reciprocating compressor. The influences of the scroll compressor losses are estimated with an experimentally validated semi-empirical model. For the reciprocating compressor, data from the previous literature is used. Regarding isentropic efficiency, mechanical, electrical losses, and leaks have a similar influence on the two compressors of approximately 90%. Heat transfer and suction pressure losses are 7% more influential in the reciprocating compressor. Regarding volumetric efficiency, mechanical, electrical losses, and leaks are approximately 39% more influential in the scroll compressor, and the influence of suction pressure losses and heat transfer are 21% greater in the reciprocating compressor. It is concluded that the reciprocating compressor has a higher leaked mass flow rate.