Compressor (Gas/Air)

Bare-shaft compressor suitable for motor or transmission drive.  

A fixed volume of gas is drawn in through the suction port(s), transferred to the discharge port(s) and collapsed to nett-zero volume. Discharge commences once downstream pressure is achieved. Effective from 100rpm and standard 2,4 and 6 pole motor speeds, fixed or variable. Inertial forces oppose gas load, so for a given pressure ratio, the correct combination of speed and rotor mass can be used to offset peak gas forces.

In operation the compression parts spend half their cycle in the hot (compression) side and half in the cold (induction) side; therefore downstream temperature is extremely low and very close to ideal, leading to high isentropic efficiencies of +80%.

The non-contact compression chambers run in close proximity, sufficient effect a seal.  The absence of contact friction negates the need for lubrication or oil within the compression chambers.

An analytical study on the effects of oil flood predict a class leading specific power of 5.5kW @ 7barg (1,500 rpm), from a range of machines 5kW and above.

Oil-free tests conducted at the University of Bath validate performance across a range of speeds and pressure conditions. Our collaborative paper documenting the study was presented at the 2019 ICCS (11th International Conference on Compressors and their Systems) and can be found below.

The roticulating concept air compressor: experimental and numerical investigation