Breakthrough in Compressor Technology: Copeland Unveils New Oil-Free Compressor with Advanced Bearing System

In a recent announcement, Copeland has unveiled its latest innovation in the form of an oil-free centrifugal compressor featuring state-of-the-art self-levitating frictionless bearing technology specifically designed for chiller applications. This groundbreaking development is poised to revolutionize the industry by offering a reliable and efficient alternative to existing magnetic levitation bearing and refrigerant-lubricated ceramic compression technology.

Tailored for critical environments such as data centres, healthcare facilities, and large chiller and heat recovery applications, the new compressor boasts high reliability across varying load conditions and an extended operating range for high-ambient applications. The introduction of Aero-lift bearing technology enables the compressor shaft to self-levitate and operate independently without the need for traditional friction-based mechanisms or reliance on complex control systems.

Moreover, the compressor’s performance enhancements extend to power interruptions, allowing for seamless coasting, rapid shutdown, and restart capabilities to minimize disruptions. This innovative feature eliminates the necessity for backup auxiliary bearings, ensuring redundancy in critical scenarios. Additionally, the compressor is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, being decoupled from controls and variable frequency drive (VFD) to accommodate humid application environments that could potentially damage conventional control systems.

One of the most significant aspects of this new compressor platform is its compatibility with lower-GWP A2L HFCs and HFO refrigerants, including R1234ze, R515B, and R513A. Extensive testing has demonstrated a remarkable increase in both full-load and part-load efficiency, with up to a 10% improvement in air-cooled applications and a 40% boost in integrated part-load value compared to existing screw technology.

As part of its strategic plan, Copeland is actively collaborating with OEMs and consultants to introduce this pioneering technology in key regions such as the United States, Canada, and Latin America, with plans for global expansion in the near future.

This breakthrough in compressor technology represents a significant leap forward for the industry, offering enhanced efficiency, reliability, and adaptability to meet the evolving demands of diverse applications. With its advanced bearing system and superior performance capabilities, the new oil-free centrifugal compressor from Copeland is set to redefine standards and drive innovation in the field of chiller applications.