Patent ID: 6168404
Filing Date: 2001-01-02
Classification: F04C

Abstract:
A scroll compressor assembly comprising: a first scroll device having a first involute wrap element projecting from a first substantially planar surface; a second scroll device having a second involute wrap element projecting from a second substantially planar surface, and a third surface opposite said second surface, said first and second scroll devices in mutual engagement with said first involute wrap element projecting toward said second surface and said second involute wrap element projecting toward said first surface, said first and second surfaces substantially parallel; whereby relative orbiting motion of said first and second surfaces compresses fluids between said involute wrap elements; a first source of a first fluid under a pressure intermediate suction pressure and discharge pressure, said first source located between said engaged first and second scroll wrap elements; a frame partly defining a chamber containing a quantity of a second fluid under pressure, said chamber in communication with said second scroll device; and a valve in fluid communication with said first source of said first fluid and a second source of said second fluid substantially at discharge pressure, said chamber and said second source out of communication in a first valve position, said chamber and said second source in communication in a second valve position, said valve activated by the fluid pressure of said first source; whereby said first and second scroll wrap elements are maintained in controlled axial sealing engagement against said second and first surfaces, respectively.