Compressors are the heart of any HVAC or refrigeration system, circulating refrigerant through the circuit and enabling heat exchange. When high-capacity or redundancy is required, systems often use Compressor Packs—modular assemblies that include multiple compressors operating in sequence or parallel.
This article explains the main types of compressor packs, their applications, and how Clivet—a European HVAC pioneer—utilizes these technologies to ensure high efficiency, reliability, and adaptability for commercial and industrial systems.
What is a Compressor Pack?
A compressor pack (also known as a compressor rack or compressor module) is a pre-assembled system featuring two or more compressors, connected to work together within an HVAC or refrigeration unit.
Key Advantages:
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Load sharing and staging
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Improved energy efficiency
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Redundancy for critical environments
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Easier maintenance and scalability
Clivet integrates advanced compressor packs in many of its modular chillers, VRF systems, heat pumps, and rooftop units, offering flexibility and control for a wide range of projects.
Main Types of Compressor Packs
Tandem Compressor Packs
Structure:
Two compressors of the same type and capacity work in parallel.
Benefits:
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Efficient part-load performance
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Suitable for mid-sized HVAC systems
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Lower vibration and noise
Clivet Example:
Clivet uses tandem rotary or scroll compressors in its modular air-cooled chillers and ELFOEnergy series, ensuring smooth capacity modulation.
Trio or Multi-Compressor Packs
Structure:
Three or more compressors in a single pack, usually with staggered startup and capacity control.
Benefits:
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Higher total capacity
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Optimized for large commercial or industrial applications
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Redundant operation if one compressor fails
Clivet Implementation:
Clivet integrates multi-compressor packs in its large capacity heat pumps and rooftop units, allowing precise control via microprocessor-based logic and inverter-driven lead compressors.
Inverter + Fixed-Speed Compressor Packs (Hybrid Packs)
Structure:
A combination of one inverter-driven compressor and one or more fixed-speed compressors.
Benefits:
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Excellent energy savings
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Smooth modulation
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Stable indoor temperature control
Clivet Feature:
This configuration is common in Clivet’s VRF outdoor units and heat pump systems, allowing fast adaptation to varying loads while minimizing power consumption.
Scroll Compressor Packs
Used For:
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Residential and commercial HVAC
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Modular chillers
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Rooftop units
Advantages:
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Compact and quiet
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High part-load efficiency
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Fewer moving parts
Clivet Innovation:
Clivet relies heavily on scroll compressor packs in its air-cooled and water-cooled chillers due to their durability, reduced service needs, and compatibility with R-32 and other eco-friendly refrigerants.
Screw Compressor Packs
Used For:
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High-capacity industrial chillers
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District cooling
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Large air handling systems
Advantages:
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Very high reliability
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Suitable for continuous operation
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Low noise at large capacity
Clivet’s Use:
In its industrial-grade systems, Clivet uses semi-hermetic screw compressors with stepless or inverter-based modulation, ensuring stable operation under variable loads.
Smart Control Systems in Clivet Compressor Packs
Clivet compressor modules are always paired with advanced digital control systems offering:
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Compressor rotation to equalize wear
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Load balancing and staging
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Real-time diagnostics
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BMS and IoT integration
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Energy consumption optimization
These features not only extend the lifespan of the equipment but also help in meeting green building and LEED standards.
Applications of Compressor Packs
Clivet compressor packs are ideal for:
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Hotels and resorts
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Office buildings and shopping malls
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Data centers
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Process cooling and pharmaceutical industries
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Multi-zone residential complexes