Abstract: A rotary-type fluid compressor is disclosed. The compressor includes a housing having a vane groove therein which is fitted with a vane. The vane is comprised of a specific soft nitrided hardened steel material which includes 0.50 to 1.30% carbon by weight, 11.0 to 20.0% chromium by weight, with the balance being Fe. The hardened steel material can be further improved by the inclusion of one or both of 0.1 to 1.50% Mo and/or 0.07 to 0.15% by weight of V. Specific characteristics relating to the mating member over which the vane slides are also disclosed. Due to the particular material utilized for producing the vane and the characteristics of the mating member over which the vane slides, improved results are obtained with respect to wear resistance.

Abstract: An improved vane for a rotary fluid compressor for which the rate of abrasive wear is matched to that of the mating rotor. The vane is made from a steel material consisting of 0.7-1.3 wt % of C, 13-20 wt % of Cr, and at least one of 0.3-1.5 wt % of Mo and 0.07-0.15 wt % of V, the balance being iron. Alternatively, the material may further contain not more than 1.0 wt % of Si and not more than 1.0 wt % of Mn. A vane so formed is ideal, in abrasion characteristics, for use with a Mo-Ni-Cr cast iron rotor.