Abstract: A scroll compressor includes first and second scroll members having wraps interfitting to define compression chambers. As is known, a back pressure chamber is defined to hold the two scroll members in contact with each other. A valve is positioned to selectively block flow of refrigerant into the back pressure chamber, but is condition responsive to change the flow of refrigerant into the back pressure chamber dependent on conditions within the compressor. In one embodiment, the valve normally blocks a second tap which communicates with discharge pressure. If an elevated temperature is reached the valve moves to an open position and refrigerant can flow from the discharge pressure chamber into the back pressure chamber. In another embodiment, the valve selectively closes a lower pressure tap.

Abstract: A scroll compressor includes first and second scroll members having wraps interfitting to define compression chambers. As is known, a back pressure chamber is defined to hold the two scroll members in contact with each other. A valve is positioned to selectively block flow of refrigerant into the back pressure chamber, but is condition responsive to change the flow of refrigerant into the back pressure chamber dependent on conditions within the compressor. In one embodiment, the valve normally blocks a second tap which communicates with discharge pressure. If an elevated temperature is reached the valve moves to an open position and refrigerant can flow from the discharge pressure chamber into the back pressure chamber. In another embodiment, the valve selectively closes a lower pressure tap.

Abstract: A scroll compressor has a non-orbiting scroll axially secured within an end cap without being mechanically fixed to the end cap. The compressor is of the sort wherein the back pressure chamber is defined behind the orbiting scroll. In one embodiment a spring biases the non-orbiting scroll toward the orbiting scroll. In other embodiments the non-orbiting scroll is force fit within the end cap.

Abstract: An improved scroll compressor has condition responsive lubricant volume flow. The lubricant is preferably delivered to a tap positioned adjacent the suction chamber such that lubricant is delivered into the scroll compressor in a quantity which is desirable for normal operation of the scroll compressor. A valve is associated with the tap, and restricts the flow of lubricant through the tap to a first more restrictive non-actuated position. If operational conditions within the scroll compressor indicate that a greater lubricant flow would be desirable, the valve moves to an actuated position at which it is less restrictive to the flow of lubricant.

Abstract: A scroll compressor is provided with a valve plate which selectively blocks communication between a tap and the back pressure chamber. The valve plate is configured such that it blocks communication during portions of the orbiting cycle and allows communication at other portions. In this way, a scroll compressor designer is able to select the portions of the compression cycle at which refrigerant is delivered to the back pressure chamber. A more consistent and stable operation of the scroll compressor can thus be achieved.

Abstract: A scroll compressor includes a plurality of components which are force-fit together. The components include the separator plate, a pressure relief valve mounted in the separator plate, and a discharge tube. By force-fitting these components, the necessity of welding operations in the interior of the scroll member is eliminated. This will reduce the occurrence of weld splatter, which is undesirable. Further, the assembly of the scroll compressor is simplified by this invention.

Abstract: A scroll compressor is provided with a motor protector mounted at a location remote from the motor. The motor protector is of the sort which operates to stop operation of the motor both when the temperatures in the scroll compressor increases, and when the electrical characteristics of the power supplied to the motor depart from those from which are expected. Preferably, the motor protector is mounted in the non-orbiting scroll. Further, the invention includes means to increase the sensitivity of this motor protector to conditions indicative of an outdoor fan failure. In several embodiments, these means include a valve which opens to communicate hot discharge pressure refrigerant over the valve. In one other embodiment, this means is a heat sink operable to take heat away from the motor protector. In this last embodiment, when the volume flow of refrigerant decreases, the amount of heat taken away also decreases.

Abstract: A scroll compressor has a non-orbiting scroll axially secured within an end cap without being mechanically fixed to the end cap. The compressor is of the sort wherein the back pressure chamber is defined behind the orbiting scroll. In one embodiment a spring biases the non-orbiting scroll toward the orbiting scroll. In other embodiments the non-orbiting scroll is force fit within the end cap.

Abstract: An improved method of providing lubricant to a drive flat interface between the eccentric pin and the slider block in a scroll compressor includes a notch for delivering the lubricant into the slider block bore. The notch preferably extends at a remote end of the slider block from the orbiting scroll. The notch communicates lubricant from a lubricant reservoir formed between a crankcase and the orbiting scroll boss. Further, the drive flat on the eccentric pin is preferably provided with a chamfer such that lubricant exiting the notch collects in a reservoir. The chamfer ensures that lubricant will be driven along the interface surface by ensuring that centrifugal forces will drive the lubricant only in one direction along the interface surface. In an alternative embodiment, the eccentric pin is simply constructed to provide this same feature.

Abstract: A low cost protective clutch member is positioned adjacent an end of the drive shaft in a scroll compressor. The device is a thin washer having a tab which is selectively driven against the housing stop when the compressor is driven in a forward direction, but is movable into a notch in the shaft when the shaft is driven in a reverse direction. The tab prevents rotation of the shaft when in the notch.

Abstract: A variable size is provided for a discharge port in a scroll compressor. The variable size is movable dependent on conditions within the scroll compressor to achieve a desired pressure ratio based upon operational conditions in the compressor or an associated refrigerant cycle. In one embodiment a plunger moves axially to increase or decrease the size of a discharge port. In a second embodiment, the plunger rotates about an axis and has a groove that is selectively aligned with the port to increase or decrease the effective size of the port.

Abstract: A scroll compressor has a non-orbiting scroll axially secured within an end cap. The compressor is of the sort wherein the back pressure chamber is defined behind the orbiting scroll. In one embodiment a spring biases the non-orbiting scroll toward the orbiting scroll. In other embodiments the non-orbiting scroll is force fit within the end cap.

Abstract: A scroll compressor has a non-orbiting scroll axially secured within an end cap. The compressor is of the sort wherein the back pressure chamber is defined behind the orbiting scroll. In one embodiment a spring biases the non-orbiting scroll toward the orbiting scroll. In other embodiments the non-orbiting scroll is force fit within the end cap.

Abstract: An improved bearing for a sealed compressor incorporates a bearing mount mounted radially outwardly of the bearing. Oil supply passages extend through the bearing mount to supply lubricant to the bearing. A magnet is positioned outwardly of the bearing mount, and will collect magnetic debris within the lubricant. The positioning of the magnet adjacent to the oil supply passages provides adequate removal of the debris in an efficient way.

Abstract: A sealed compressor includes a lower end cap with a u-shaped hump extending around its periphery. A weld reinforcement which is preferably a ring is welded between inner and outer legs of the u-shaped hump. The weld reinforcement ring bears a good deal of stress from internal pressures, and results in a more long-lasting housing.

Abstract: A sealed compressor includes a lower end cap with a u-shaped hump extending around its periphery. A weld reinforcement which is preferably a ring is welded between inner and outer legs of the u-shaped hump. The weld reinforcement ring bears a good deal of stress from internal pressures, and results in a more long-lasting housing.

Abstract: A compressor diagnostic system incorporates a control which receives a plurality of data streams about various operational features of the compressor. As an example, both temperature and pressure of the suction and discharge refrigerant are taken and sent to the control. Moreover, information with regard to the power being supplied to the motor is taken and stored. All of this information is utilized at a control which compares the information to expected values and determines a fault based upon the evaluation. Moreover, in another feature of this invention, much of this data is stored, and maintained at the compressor. In the event of a compressor failure, this stored information will provide a maintenance worker with a good indication of why the compressor failed.

Abstract: A scroll compressor includes an oil supply cross-hole extending radially outwardly to the outer peripheral surface of the base of the orbiting scroll. The cross-hole supplies lubricant against the crankcase towers such that lubricant is supplied to both the Oldham coupling and the seals for the back pressure chamber. The cross-hole is preferably positioned to be between 80° and 90° downstream from the beginning of the orbiting scroll wrap. In this position, adequate oil will be supplied to lubricate the Oldham coupling and the seal, while at the same time, it is unlikely that an undue amount of lubricant will be allowed into the scroll compressor chambers.

Abstract: A system includes a motor mounted within a housing and a compressor pump unit. A single-phase PSC motor includes a switch assembly which selectively connects primary or alternate windings. During normal load operation, when maximum efficiency is desired, the switch is placed in one position, then during high load operation, when maximum torque output is needed at maximum a load point, the switch is placed in the closed position. In effect, the number of main winding turns is decreased and the motor is strengthened. As the auxiliary capacitors are also now connected in parallel, the net effect is an increase in the total auxiliary capacitance, which also serves to strengthen the motor. Another embodiment provides a switch for a three-phase WYE connected motor. In yet another embodiment, a three phase delta connected motor switch is provided.

Abstract: An improved heat shield for a scroll compressor is provided with a non-cylindrical end portion caught between the end cap and the non-orbiting scroll. In several embodiments, the portion provides a seal between the discharge chamber and a suction chamber. In one embodiment the portion of the heat shield is serpentine. In another embodiment the portion of the heat shield is generally u-shaped. In further embodiments the portion includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced clips. Several other embodiments are also disclosed.