1. Compressor Housing:
- Air-tight casing that encloses the compressor's internal components and protects them from the surrounding environment.
2. Motor:
- Provides mechanical energy to drive the compressor. It can be electric, gasoline, or diesel-powered, depending on the type of refrigeration system.
3. Crankshaft:
- Connects the motor to the piston or rotating mechanism and converts rotary motion into reciprocating motion or vice versa.
4. Piston or Rotor:
- The heart of the compressor, it moves within a cylinder or scroll case to compress the refrigerant gas.
5. Cylinder or Scroll Case:
- Encloses the piston or rotor and provides a sealed space for the compression process.
6. Valves (Inlet and Outlet):
- Control the flow of refrigerant gas. Inlet valves allow the refrigerant to enter the compressor, and outlet valves release the compressed gas.
7. Piston Rings or Vanes:
- Create a tight seal between the piston and the cylinder, preventing refrigerant leakage.
8. Connecting Rods:
- Link the piston to the crankshaft, transmitting the piston's linear motion to the rotating motion of the crankshaft.
9. Oil Pump and Reservoir:
- Provide lubrication to the moving parts of the compressor, ensuring smooth operation and reduced wear.
10. Pressure Relief Valve:
- Safety mechanism that releases excess pressure from the system if it exceeds safe limits, preventing damage to the compressor.
11. Cooling Fins or Fan:
- Help dissipate heat generated during the compression process, maintaining an optimal operating temperature.
12. Vibration Isolation Mounts or Springs:
- Reduce vibration and noise caused by the compressor's operation.
13. Suction and Discharge Ports:
- Connection points for the refrigerant to enter and exit the compressor.
These are the main components of a refrigeration compressor, though specific designs and configurations may vary among different types and brands.