Design Optimization For Scroll Compressor Thrust Bearing

Scroll compressor trend to have bigger capacity, higher working speed and wider application range. With such development, scroll compressor require more reliable bearing system. The purpose of this paper is to solve a real engineering problem-scroll compressor thrust bearing wear-out. This paper applied theoretical research results and engineering analysis finding on this case, presents an optimization design solution.In this paper, the theoretical foundation of scroll compressor thrust bearing lubrication was reviewed. Base on the theory, an engineering method which analyze thrust bearing lubrication status by examine orbiting scroll motion stability was introduced. To have stability of orbiting scroll, built scroll geometric model for compression chamber volume analysis. Then, based on the first law of thermodynamics introduced compression process thermodynamics model. Considered leakage and heat transfer impact in calculation. Later, calculated axial reaction force trace by orbiting scroll mechanical analysis. From the reaction force location on thrust bearing, we can concluded orbiting scroll motion status. From the motion status, determined whether the hydrodynamic oil-firm can be achieved on thrust bearing.Then optimized scroll sets design base on theoretical analysis result, and got orbiting scroll motion status after optimization. Qualified new design by FEA simulation and scroll compressor life test. The test results showed, there’s no serious wear on thrust bearing. The optimized design solution passed scroll compressor life test. Solved previous issue.The results of this paper also shows that check hydrodynamic lubrication status on thrust bearing by verify orbiting scroll stability is acceptable in engineering practice. This approach simplifies the process of solving Hydrodynamic equation by orbiting scroll mechanical analysis and FEA simulation, which much easier to implement in engineering application.