Scroll compressor having axial compliance valve

Abstract

A scroll compressor assembly including 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 facing oppositely the second surface, the first and second scroll devices adapted for mutual engagement with the first involute wrap element projecting toward the second surface and the second involute wrap element projecting toward the first surface, the first surface positioned substantially parallel with the second surface, whereby relative orbiting motion of the first and second surfaces compresses fluids between the involute wrap elements, a first source of a first fluid under a pressure intermediate suction pressure and discharge pressure and located between the first and second scroll wrap elements, a frame partly defining a chamber containing a quantity of a second fluid under pressure, and a valve in fluid communication with the first source of the first fluid and a second source of the second fluid substantially at the discharge pressure, the chamber and the second source out of communication in a first valve position, the chamber and the second source in communication in a second valve position, the valve activated by the fluid pressure of the first source, whereby the first and second scroll wrap elements are maintained in controlled axial sealing engagement against the second and first surfaces, respectively.