Summary

Linear compressors use a linear actuator to drive the piston directly in its reciprocating motion, eliminating several bearings that convert a rotation into a reciprocating motion in conventional reciprocating compressors. Additionally, the presence of side loads is minimized because the main forces in the mechanism are aligned to the axis of motion. Since the only sliding surface is the piston cylinder int erface, it is possible to use the refrigerant gas as a lubricant. The separation between piston and cylinder is provided bypassing a small mass flow of refrigerant at high pressure from the discharge chamber. The ratio of mass flow circulated back into the cylinder should be optimiz ed to avoid piston-cylinder contact, without affecting the overall performance of the compressor. [...]

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