Scroll Compressor Cooling

Aftercoolers for Scroll Compressors

Aftercoolers are critical for scroll compressors, cooling compressed air from temperatures up to 250°F and removing up to 75% of moisture content. They ensure system efficiency and deliver clean, dry air for sensitive applications in medical, dental, and food processing industries.

Built with durable materials like copper tubes and steel shells, these aftercoolers minimize pressure drops and support the oil-free operation of scroll compressors. Available in air-cooled and water-cooled configurations, they meet diverse industrial needs.

Understanding the Need for Aftercoolers in Scroll Compressors

Scroll compressors use orbiting scrolls to compress air, producing moderate heat (180-250°F) and moisture. Without aftercoolers, this hot, moist air can compromise air quality and damage sensitive equipment. Aftercoolers cool the air to 80-100°F, condensing moisture for removal, ensuring clean air for critical processes.

Effects of High-Temperature Compressed Air

High-temperature air from scroll compressors can affect system performance and air quality, particularly in sensitive applications. For example, a 50 CFM scroll compressor at 100 PSIG can introduce significant moisture without cooling, impacting medical or food processing equipment. Aftercoolers prevent these issues by cooling air and removing moisture.

Controlling Temperature in Scroll Compressor Systems

Temperature control is essential for scroll compressor performance. Aftercoolers use ambient air or cooling water to transfer heat from compressed air. A sufficient temperature difference between the air and cooling medium ensures efficient heat transfer, with water-cooled aftercoolers achieving approach temperatures of 10-15°F for precise cooling.

Regulative Cooling Processes

Regulative cooling for scroll compressors involves cooling compressed air to safe temperatures and removing moisture. Air is cooled from 250°F to 80°F, then passed through a moisture separator. This process reduces dryer loads and ensures high-quality air, supporting the oil-free requirements of scroll compressor applications.

Types of Aftercoolers for Scroll Compressors

Aftercoolers for scroll compressors are designed for compact, oil-free systems with moderate CFM outputs. The key types include:

Air-Cooled Aftercoolers

• Common for scroll compressors, using ambient air to cool air to within 15-20°F of ambient.
• Ideal for compact, portable systems in medical and dental settings.

Water-Cooled Aftercoolers

• Used for stationary scroll compressors with cooling water access.
• High-efficiency cooling with approach temperatures of 10-15°F, suitable for food processing and pharmaceuticals.

Integrated Aftercoolers

• Built into many scroll compressors for compact cooling solutions.
• Standalone aftercoolers may be added for higher CFM or critical applications.

Custom Aftercoolers

• Tailored for specific scroll compressor models, addressing unique cooling or space requirements.

These aftercoolers ensure efficient cooling, moisture removal, and system reliability for scroll compressors in sensitive industrial settings.

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