In 2004, Denmark-based Danfoss A/S and Montreal-based Turbocor Inc. joined together to create Danfoss Turbocor Compressors Inc. This joint venture to introduced a new powerhouse into the industrial compressor market. What was of interest was the line of the latest model of Danfoss compressor. In particular, the companies were working together to produce and promote oil-free centrifugal refrigerant compressors.
What Is a Centrifugal Compressor?
Centrifugal compressors, also known as radial compressors, consist of three major identifying features. These are:
- Cast iron casing
- Steel shaft
- Cast aluminum alloy impeller
These devices compress the fluid by drawing it in using the impeller (a rotating disc). The generated centrifugal force (responsible for the specific name of this type of compressor) pushes the liquid to the extremities of the casing. It then exits. The diffuser translates velocity energy into pressure energy.
One of the most attractive aspects of this type of compressor is its lack of lubrication. Centrifugal compressors do not require oil or any form of lubrication. Moreover, these devices feature variable speeds and are excellent for extended period of operation. This makes them highly suitable for placement in large industrial plants.
Danfoss/Turbocor
Danfoss has always been a pioneer in compressor technology. A Danfoss compressor has always been one step ahead of the competition. The latest collaboration of Danfoss with Turbocor has resulted in the Danfoss Turbocor Variable Twin Turbo (VTT). This is the beginning of a series featuring nominal capacity ranges of between 200 and 350 tons. It has design and technological implications for the HVAC industrial compressor manufacturing industry. The VTT models are:
- Oil-free
- Variable-speed
- Magnetic-bearing
- Highly efficient – as a result of a patent pending technology IntraFlow™ providing it with the highest full- and part-load efficiency industry-wide
- Have an extended stable operating range
- Expanded control electronics – These now allow communications to occur utilizing a diverse amount of media including
- USB, Ethernet and wireless channels
- Shaft speed detection
- Motor cooling
- Drive cooling
- Condensation protection
- Superior turndown
The technology also allows for the remote downloading of various firmware as well as configuration updates.
The Danfoss Compressor: Advancing further with Turbocor
The Danfoss Group continues to work diligently to improve its capabilities and manufacture some of the best compressors available globally. By entering a joint venture with Montreal Canada’s Turbocor, Inc., they are continuing to improve their position in the marketplace. By combining the expertise that produced the Danfoss compressor with the latest technology provided by Turbocor, they have continued to improvise while providing the latest advancements in centrifugal compressors for widespread industrial application.
