Which type of compressor typically has the smallest displacement for a given operating condition?

Which type of compressor typically has the smallest displacement for a given operating condition?

• A. Centrifugal
• B. Reciprocating
• C. Rotary
• D. Screw

Answer: (C)

The rotary compressor is known for having the smallest displacement for a given operating condition when compared to centrifugal, reciprocating, and screw compressors. This is largely due to its design and operational principles. Rotary compressors typically utilize a mechanism where two rotors move against each other within a tight tolerance, allowing them to compress the gas with minimal waste of volume. This compact design allows for efficient operation with smaller displacement, meaning they can perform effectively while occupying less space. In contrast, centrifugal compressors generally require a larger size because they rely on high-speed rotating impellers to generate pressure, making them less space-efficient for the same output compared to rotary designs. Reciprocating compressors involve pistons and cylinders, which take up more space and have more mechanical complexity leading to larger displacement for the same performance. Similarly, screw compressors, while efficient, also tend to be bulkier due to their design involving two intertwined helical rotors, further increasing their displacement relative to rotary compressors. Thus, the efficiency and compactness in displacement that rotary compressors provide for various operational conditions make them the ideal choice when a smaller displacement is desired.

The rotary compressor is known for having the smallest displacement for a given operating condition when compared to centrifugal, reciprocating, and screw compressors. This is largely due to its design and operational principles.

Rotary compressors typically utilize a mechanism where two rotors move against each other within a tight tolerance, allowing them to compress the gas with minimal waste of volume. This compact design allows for efficient operation with smaller displacement, meaning they can perform effectively while occupying less space.

In contrast, centrifugal compressors generally require a larger size because they rely on high-speed rotating impellers to generate pressure, making them less space-efficient for the same output compared to rotary designs. Reciprocating compressors involve pistons and cylinders, which take up more space and have more mechanical complexity leading to larger displacement for the same performance. Similarly, screw compressors, while efficient, also tend to be bulkier due to their design involving two intertwined helical rotors, further increasing their displacement relative to rotary compressors.

Thus, the efficiency and compactness in displacement that rotary compressors provide for various operational conditions make them the ideal choice when a smaller displacement is desired.