Tell what type of compressor.

by Wei

Hi,

The website is great and I got lots of info from it, great job!

I have a question, when you look at a compressor, how can you tell what type is it (Rotary-Vane-Reciprocating-Screw) by its shape?

Many thanks!

Wei

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Hi Wei:

Thanks for your kind comments.

Unless they are fairly substantive units, and the actual compressor part of the unit is exposed, it's pretty hard to tell one type of compressor from another.

Usually you can spot the Reciprocating compressors due to the heat sink fins on the compressor head (or heads in the case of a twin), but not if they too are inside a cabinet.

Little compressors might be reciprocating, might be diaphragm, and might even be vane or rotary screw.

Some of the bigger rotary screw and vane compressors are indistinguishable from the outside due to the machine shrouding. You need to check the specifications label and, if necessary, check the model number with the manufacturer to be sure.

Bill