Posts Tagged: variable displacement compressor
The 3 Types of Automotive AC Compressors
Automotive AC System Compressor Guide Quick Summary Carmakers install three types of AC compressors: • Piston compressors (fixed and variable displacement) • Scroll compressors • Rotary vane compressors. Each one compresses the refrigerant differently, but the biggest real-world difference lies in how they control output and efficiency. Fixed-displacement compressors cycle on and off, while variable-displacement compressors adjust output continuously. Scroll and rotary designs offer smoother, quieter operation. Knowing how each works is the key to diagnosing failures, avoiding repeat compressor damage, and choosing the right replacement. The 3 Types of … Read More
How To Diagnose a Variable Displacement AC Compressor
Variable Displacement AC Compressor Problems and Fixes Quick Summary A variable displacement AC compressor adjusts cooling by varying the piston stroke, not by cycling the clutch on and off. In other words, this clutchless compressor runs all the time and “de-strokes” when cooling isn’t needed. The compressor control valve regulates the piston stroke length. The valve is a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) solenoid that allows or restricts refrigerant flow to the advance or retard side of the swash plate. The pulse width is determined by the HVAC control head based on the … Read More