Abstract: A high side hermetic scroll compressor passes the discharge gas along the interior of the shell and is thereby cooled prior to being subjected to a centrifugal separation to remove the oil before being discharged from the compressor. The separated oil is returned to the sump via a fluid path isolated from the discharge gas.

Abstract: A scroll compressor can be provided with different wrap thicknesses to compensate for the different material properties of the orbiting and fixed scroll elements. The concept of different wrap thicknesses also aids in the select-fitting of parts and in the provision of and adjustment of a clearance or spacing between the wrap elements. Additionally, in the manufacture of a scroll compressor, the total wrap thickness of the two wraps is kept constant within narrow tolerances while the individual wrap thicknesses are allowed to vary over a predetermined range. The cutting tools used are sized such that even if they differ in their cutting diameters, the combined cutting diameters, and therefore the total wrap thicknesses, are constant within narrow tolerances. This permits the tools to be used and resharpened until their cutting diameters fall below the minimum acceptable diameter.

Abstract: An orientation insensitive scroll compressor is assembled by assembling the internal compressor as on an assembly which is inserted into a middle shell. The tubes are inserted and then the top and bottom shells are partially inserted into the middle shell and secured in place.

Abstract: Lubrication oil is supplied to provide a thrust force tending to keep the fixed and orbiting scroll means together in opposition to the forces acting thereon due to compressing gas between the wraps.

Abstract: A scroll compressor is run with a clearance between the wraps and oil is injected between the wraps for sealing. In addition to providing a sealing function, the oil also provides a lubrication function prior to injection.

Abstract: In a high side scroll compressor, the motor is located above the scrolls and the oil sump and discharge gas are isolated from each other. The compressor can be used in an orientation that can range between vertical and at least 20.degree. of horizontal.

Abstract: A scroll compressor can be provided with different wrap thicknesses to compensate for the different material properties of the orbiting and fixed scroll elements. The concept of different wrap thicknesses also aids in the select-fitting of parts and in the provision of and adjustment of a clearance or spacing between the wrap elements. Additionally, in the manufacture of a scroll compressor, the total wrap thickness of the two wraps is kept constant within narrow tolerances while the individual wrap thicknesses are allowed to vary over a predetermined range. The cutting tools used are sized such that even if they differ in their cutting diameters, the combined cutting diameters, and therefore the total wrap thicknesses, are constant within narrow tolerances. This permits the tools to be used and resharpened until their cutting diameters fall below the minimum acceptable diameter.