US20190178250A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20190178250A1
Application number: US16/210,503
Authority: US
Inventors: Jack Morris DeFord; Charles Penzone Dagenfield; Steven Baker
Original assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies Inc
Current assignee: Copeland LP
Priority date: 2017-12-13
Filing date: 2018-12-05
Publication date: 2019-06-13
Also published as: CN109973388B; CN109973388A; CN209654237U

Abstract

A polymeric composite insert component for a scroll compressor comprises a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle. The insert component comprises an annular body and an axial projection. The annular body comprises a first annular inner surface defining a first centrally-disposed opening having a central axis. The annular body has a first side configured to engage a partition plate and a second side configured to engage a floating seal assembly. The axial projection extends from the first side of the annular body. The axial projection is configured to engage the partition plate. The insert component is configured to fluidly seal first and second interfaces during operation of the compressor. The first interface is defined between the first contact surface and the partition plate. The second interface defined between the second contact surface and the floating seal assembly.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/598,217, filed on Dec. 13, 2017. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to polymeric composite insert components for compressors and more specifically, to polymeric composite insert component designs for providing a fluidic seal between a partition and a floating seal assembly in a scroll compressor, and methods of assembling the polymeric composite insert component to a scroll compressor.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Scroll machines in general, and particularly scroll compressors, are often disposed in a hermetic shell that defines a chamber within which a working fluid is disposed. A partition within the shell often divides the chamber into a discharge pressure zone and a suction pressure zone. In a low-side arrangement, a scroll assembly is located within the suction pressure zone for compressing the working fluid. Generally, these scroll assemblies incorporate a pair of intermeshed spiral involute portions, one or both of which orbit relative to the other, so as to define one or more moving chambers which progressively decrease in size as they travel from an outer suction port towards a central discharge port. An electric motor is normally provided which operates to cause this relative orbital movement.

The partition within the shell allows compressed fluid exiting the central discharge port of the scroll assembly to enter the discharge pressure zone within the shell, while simultaneously maintaining the integrity between the discharge pressure zone and the suction pressure zone. The partition normally includes a seal, such as a floating seal assembly. The seal interacts with the partition and with the scroll member defining the central discharge port, so as to maintain a pressure differential within the compressor. Conventional air conditioning scroll compressors typically rely upon the floating seal package's ability to form a metal-to-metal face seal with a portion of the partition, such as a partition plate (e.g., muffler plate) or the shell, during compressor operation. This sealing interface provides separation of the high pressure side and low pressure side of the compressor. It is important to maintain a fluid seal between the floating seal assembly and the partition plate during operation of the compressor. However, the components at the sealing interface may have potential issues with maintaining sealing conditions under all compressor operating conditions and further many suffer from excessive wear that may cause loss of sealing capabilities. The present teachings provide a polymeric composite insert component having improved sealing capability.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

In various aspects, the present disclosure provides a polymeric composite insert component for a scroll compressor. The polymeric composite insert component comprises a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle. The polymeric composite insert component comprises an annular body and an axial projection. The annular body comprises a first annular inner surface. The first annular inner surface defines a first centrally-disposed opening. The first centrally-disposed opening has a central axis extending therethrough. The annular body has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The first side comprises a first contact surface configured to engage a partition plate. The second side comprises a second contact surface configured to engage a floating seal assembly. The axial projection extends from the first side of the annular body. The axial projection is configured to engage the partition plate. The polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal both a first interface and a second interface during operation of the scroll compressor. The first interface is defined between the first contact surface and the partition plate. The second interface is defined between the second contact surface and the floating seal assembly.

In various aspects, the present disclosure provides a scroll compressor comprising a polymeric composite insert component, a partition plate, and a floating seal assembly. The polymeric composite insert component comprises a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle. The polymeric composite insert component comprises an annular body and an axial projection. The annular body has a first annular inner surface defining a first centrally-disposed opening. The first centrally-disposed opening has a central axis extending therethrough. The axial projection extends from the annular body. The partition plate comprises a second centrally-disposed opening. The second centrally-disposed opening is aligned with the first centrally-disposed opening with respect to the central axis. The floating seal assembly has a third centrally-disposed opening. The third centrally-disposed opening is aligned with the first centrally-disposed opening and the second centrally-disposed opening with respect to the central axis. The polymeric composite insert component is disposed between the partition plate and the floating seal assembly. The polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal both a first interface and a second interface during operation of the scroll compressor. The first interface is defined between the polymeric composite insert component and the partition plate. The second interface defined between the polymeric composite insert component and the floating seal assembly.

In various aspects, the present disclosure provides a method of assembling a scroll compressor. The method includes aligning a first centrally-disposed opening of a polymeric composite insert component with a second centrally-disposed opening of a partition plate along a central axis. The polymeric composite insert component comprises a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle. The polymeric composite insert component defines an annular body comprising the first centrally-disposed opening having the central axis extending therethrough. The method further includes orienting a plurality of circumferentially-disposed tabs on the polymeric composite insert component toward the partition plate. Each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality projects axially from a side of the annular body. Each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality comprises a fixed end connected to the annular body, a free end opposite the fixed end, an arm extending between the fixed end and the free end, and a radially-outwardly extending lip disposed at the free end. The method further includes contacting a sloped surface of the free end of the lip of each respective circumferentially-disposed tab with the partition plate. The method further includes translating the polymeric composite insert component toward the partition plate and causing the lips of the respective circumferentially-disposed tabs of the plurality to deflect radially inwardly until the lips snap radially outwardly and engage the partition plate to retain the polymeric composite insert component on the partition plate. A surface defined by the side of the annular body engages the partition plate. The polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal an interface defined between the surface and the partition plate during operation of the scroll compressor.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view through a center of a scroll compressor having a conventional design;

FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view showing a floating seal assembly as inFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing an upper seal plate forming a portion of the floating seal assembly as inFIG. 1;

FIGS. 4A-4C show a polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.FIG. 4A shows a top isometric view of the polymeric composite insert component;FIG. 4B shows a bottom isometric view of the polymeric composite insert component;FIG. 4C shows a partial sectional view taken atline4C-4C ofFIG. 4A;

FIGS. 5A-5B show a scroll compressor having a polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.FIG. 5A is a partial sectional view of the scroll compressor;FIG. 5B is an isometric section view of the polymeric composite insert component;

FIGS. 6A-6B show the polymeric composite insert component ofFIGS. 5A-5B.FIG. 6A is a top view of the polymeric composite insert component;FIG. 6B is a bottom view of the polymeric composite insert component;

FIG. 7 is a partial sectional view of the polymeric composite insert component and partition plate ofFIGS. 5A-5B;

FIG. 8 is a partial sectional view of another polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the polymeric composite insert component being fixed to a partition plate;

FIGS. 9A-9B show another polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.FIG. 9A is a top isometric view of the polymeric composite insert component;FIG. 9B is a side view of the polymeric composite insert component taken atline9B-9B ofFIG. 9A;

FIGS. 10A-10B show yet another polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.FIG. 10A is a top isometric view;FIG. 10B is a sectional view taken atline10B-10B ofFIG. 10A; and

FIGS. 11A-11C show yet another polymeric composite insert component according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.FIG. 11A is a top isometric view;FIG. 11B is a sectional view taken atline11B-11B ofFIG. 11A; andFIG. 11C is a sectional view taken atline11C-11C ofFIG. 11A.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Throughout this disclosure, the numerical values represent approximate measures or limits to ranges to encompass minor deviations from the given values and embodiments having about the value mentioned as well as those having exactly the value mentioned. Other than in the working examples provided at the end of the detailed description, all numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, including the appended claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” whether or not “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicates that the stated numerical value allows some slight imprecision (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. In addition, disclosure of ranges includes disclosure of all values and further divided ranges within the entire range, including endpoints given for the ranges.

In various aspects, the present teachings provide a polymeric composite insert component for sealing an interface between a floating seal assembly and a partition (e.g., a partition plate, a muffler plate, or a shell) in a compressor, such as a scroll compressor. In certain variations, this disclosure provides a polymeric insert component that can be coupled to the partition or the floating seal assembly. In certain aspects, the polymeric insert component comprises a polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer. In certain aspects, the polymeric insert component comprises a composite material including a polymer and at least one reinforcement material distributed within the polymer. Such a thermoplastic composite provides greater ability to conform to the partition and the floating seal assembly to enhance sealability and seal performance. For example, a thermoplastic composite in the polymeric composite insert component can provide high strength, while enhancing flexibility and elasticity at the interface. More particularly, the polymeric composite insert component conforms to the partition and the floating seal assembly during operation of the compressor, including during deformation of the partition at high loads. Thus, the polymeric composite insert component may increase overall compressor efficiency.

By way of background, a conventional hermeticrefrigerant scroll compressor10 is described in the context ofFIG. 1. Thescroll compressor10 comprises a generally cylindricalhermetic shell12 having welded at the upper end thereof acap14 and at the lower end thereof abase16. Thecap14 is provided with a refrigerant discharge fitting18 which may have the usual discharge valve componentry therein (not shown). Other major elements affixed to theshell12 include a transversely extending partition, which is shown here as apartition plate22, which is connected about its periphery along the same joint that cap14 is attached to shell12. A stationary main bearing housing orbody24 is suitably secured to shell12, and alower bearing housing26 also having a plurality of radially-outwardly extending legs, each of which is also suitably secured to shell12. Amotor stator28 is disposed withinshell12. Flats between the rounded corners on themotor stator28 provide passageways between thestator28 andshell12, which facilitate the flow of lubricant from the top of theshell12 to the bottom.

A drive shaft orcrankshaft30 having aneccentric crank pin32 at the upper end thereof is rotatably journaled in abearing34 in themain bearing housing24 and asecond bearing36 in thelower bearing housing26.Crankshaft30 has at the lower end a relatively large diameter concentric bore38 which communicates with a radially-outwardly-inclined smaller diameter bore40 extending upwardly therefrom to the top of the crankshaft. Disposed within bore38 is astirrer42. The lower portion of theinterior shell12 is filled with lubricating oil, and thebore38 serves to pump lubricating fluid up thecrankshaft30 and into thebore40, and ultimately to all of the various portions of the compressor which require lubrication. Thecrankshaft30 is rotatively driven by an electricmotor including stator28,windings44 passing therethrough, and arotor46 press-fitted on thecrankshaft30.

An upper surface ofmain bearing housing24 is provided with a flatthrust bearing surface50 on which is disposed anorbiting scroll member54 defining the usual spiral vane orinvolute portion56. Projecting downwardly from the lower surface of orbitingscroll member54 is acylindrical hub58 having a journal bearing therein and in which is rotatively disposed adrive bushing60 having aninner bore62 in which crankpin32 is drivingly disposed. Thecrank pin32 has a flat on one surface which drivingly engages a flat surface (not shown) formed in a portion ofbore62 to provide a radially-compliant driving arrangement. AnOldham coupling64 is positioned between and keyed to orbitingscroll member54 and anon-orbiting scroll member66 to prevent rotational movement of orbitingscroll member54.

Thenon-orbiting scroll member66 is also provided having a non-orbitinginvolute portion68 positioned in meshing engagement with orbitinginvolute portion56 of orbitingscroll member54. Thenon-orbiting scroll member66 has a centrally-disposeddischarge passage70 communicating with an upwardly-open recess72 which is in fluid communication with adischarge muffler chamber74 defined by thecap14 and thepartition plate22 through an opening defined by thepartition plate22. It should be noted that while the exemplary design only shows thepartition plate22, which can serve as a muffler plate, a variety of conventional known designs can alternatively be attached to theshell12 or partition, including an assembly of plates or components or an external shell/housing.

Thus, the orbitinginvolute portion56 and non-orbiting involute portion68 (of the twoscroll members54,66) are arranged together with the

scroll involute portions

56,68 being rotationally displaced 180° from one another. Thescroll compressor10 operates by orbiting theinvolute portion56 of orbitingscroll member54 with respect to the otherinvolute portion68 of stationarynon-orbiting scroll member66, thus making moving line contacts between the flanks of the respective

involute portions

56,68, thus defining moving isolated crescent-shaped pockets of fluid. The moving fluid pockets carry the fluid to be handled from a first zone in the scroll machine where a fluid inlet is provided, to a second zone in the machine where a fluid outlet is provided. The volume of a sealed pocket changes as it moves from the first zone to the second zone. At any one instant in time there will be at least one pair of sealed pockets; and where there are several pairs of sealed pockets at one time, each pair will have different volumes. In thecompressor10, the second zone is at a higher pressure than the first zone and is physically located centrally in thecompressor10, the first zone being located at the outer periphery of thecompressor10.

Two types of contacts define the fluid pockets formed between thescroll members54,66: (1) axially extending tangential line contacts between the spiral faces or flanks of the

involute portions

56,68 caused by radial forces (“flank sealing”), and (2) area contacts caused by axial forces between the plane edge surfaces defined by terminal edges ortips52 of each

involute portion

56,68 and the opposite end plate (“tip sealing”). For high efficiency, optimizing sealing for both types of contacts is important.

One of the difficult areas of design in a scroll-type machine concerns the technique used to achieve tip sealing under all operating conditions, and also at all speeds in a variable speed machine. Conventionally, this has been accomplished by (1) using extremely accurate and very expensive machining techniques, (2) providing theinvolute portion tips52 with spiral tip seals, which are diifficult to assemble and often unreliable, or (3) applying an axially restoring force by axial biasing theorbiting scroll member54 or thenon-orbiting scroll member66 towards the opposing scroll using compressed working fluid.

The utilization of an axial restoring force typically entails one of the two

scroll members

54,66 being mounted for axial movement with respect to the other scroll member. This can be accomplished by securing thenon-orbiting scroll member66 to amain bearing housing24. Second, a biasing load applied to the axially movablenon-orbiting scroll member66 urges thenon-orbiting scroll member66 into engagement with theorbiting scroll member54. This can be accomplished by forming achamber76 on the side of thenon-orbiting scroll member66 opposite to theorbiting scroll member54, placing a floatingseal assembly78 in thechamber76 and then supplying a pressurized fluid to thischamber76. The source of the pressurized fluid can be the scroll compressor itself. Thus, anannular recess80 can be formed innon-orbiting scroll member66, within which is disposed the floatingseal assembly78. The

recesses

72 and80 and floatingseal assembly78 cooperate to define axial pressure biasing chambers which receive pressurized fluid being compressed by

involute portions

56 and68, so as to exert an axial biasing force onnon-orbiting scroll member66 to thereby urge thetips52 of respective

involute portions

56,68 into sealing engagement with the opposed end plate surfaces.

With reference toFIGS. 1-3, a conventional floatingseal assembly78 is shown which has a coaxial sandwiched construction that comprises an annular base plate orlower seal plate90 conventionally formed out of a metal, such as cast iron or aluminum. Such floatingseal assemblies78 generally function as a valve to enable or prevent flow of high-pressure refrigerant gas from a high-pressure discharge area to the low-pressure suction/inlet area in thecompressor10. At normal operating conditions for thecompressor10, the valve is closed and a face seal minimizes bypass of gas from a discharge side to an inlet/suction side. The valve will, however, open in response to a high discharge-to-suction pressure ratio in thecompressor10 to prevent system failure.

Thus, in the design shown inFIGS. 1-3, theannular base plate90 has a plurality of equally-spaced upstanding integral projections or posts92. Disposed onbase plate90 is an annular inner gasket or seal94 and an annular outer gasket orseal95. On top of

seals

94,95 is disposed an annularupper seal plate96 having a plurality of equally-spacedholes97 receivingprojections92. Upperannular seal plate96, which is conventionally formed of a metal, such as grey cast iron, has disposed about the periphery thereof an upwardly projecting planar seal lip that defines a sealing lip or faceseal98. The floatingseal assembly78 is secured together by swaging the ends of eachprojection92 as indicated at100.

Theoverall seal assembly78 therefore provides three distinct seals, namely, an inside diameter seal at102, an outside diameter seal at104 and a top or face seal at106.Seal102 isolates fluid under intermediate pressure in the bottom ofrecess80 from fluid under discharge pressure inrecess72.Seal104 isolates fluid under intermediate pressure in the bottom ofrecess80 from fluid at suction pressure withinshell12.Seal106 isolates fluid at suction pressure withinshell12 from fluid at discharge pressure inrecess72 across the top of floatingseal assembly78.FIG. 1 illustrates awear ring108 attached to partition plate22 (that in alternative embodiments which are not shown, could be attached to a separate partition plate attached to shell12 or partition), which providesseal106 between face seal98 (of plate96) and wearring108. In lieu ofwear ring108, the lower surface ofpartition plate22 can be locally hardened by nitriding, carbo-nitriding or other hardening processes known in the art to form thepartition plate22 against which theface seal98 can interface.

The diameter ofseal106 is chosen so that there is a positive upward sealing force on floatingseal assembly78 under normal operating conditions, at normal pressure ratios. Therefore, when excessive pressure ratios are encountered, the floatingseal assembly78 will be forced downwardly by discharge pressure, thereby permitting a leak of high side discharge pressure gas directly across the top of floatingseal assembly78 to a zone of low side suction gas. If this leakage is great enough, the resultant loss of flow of motor cooling suction gas (aggravated by the excessive temperature of the leaking discharge gas) will cause a motor protector (not shown) to trip, thereby de-energizing the motor. The width ofseal106 is chosen so that the unit pressure on the seal itself (e.g., betweenface seal98 and wear ring108) is greater than normally encountered discharge pressure, to promote consistent sealing. The discharge pressure ofcompressor10 urges the inner lip seal portion ofseal94 into engagement withnon-orbiting scroll member66 to form the inside diameter seal at102.

Thus, conventional floating seals, like floatingseal assembly78, can be an assembly of two metal plates and one or more polymer sealing rings. Thelower seal plate90 is often formed of as-cast aluminum (or other metals) including thevertical posts92 that fit through holes oropenings100 in theupper seal plate96.Upper seal plate96 is often formed of cast iron (or other metals). Theupper seal plate96 has theface seal98 feature incorporated into its top surface that interacts with a partition plate22 (e.g., muffler plate) to formseal106 whenever the two components are in contact. The polymer seals94,95 are located by and held between the two

seal plates

90,96. The assembly process for conventional seal assemblies involves stacking the pieces together and then plastically deforming the aluminum posts92 such that the top ends locally spread out over thelower seal plate90 to form a rigid and secure attachment.

When assembled, the one or more polymer seals94,95 are retained by the two

seal plates

90,96 in a first plane and the sealing interface with thenon-orbiting scroll member66 occurs along a surface of thenon-orbiting scroll member66 that is generally perpendicular to the plane of retention by the two

plates

90,96. Thus, the one or more polymer seals94,95 bend through an approximately 90° angle to achieve their sealing.

In various aspects, the present teachings provide a polymeric composite insert component for improved sealing between a partition and a floating seal assembly in a compressor, such as a scroll compressor. The polymeric composite insert component is disposed between the partition and the floating seal assembly. The polymeric composite insert component may be formed of a composite that includes a polymer and a reinforcement or lubricating phase. The polymeric composite insert component may provide a fluid seal at a first interface between the partition and the polymeric composite insert component and at a second interface between the polymeric composite insert component and the floating seal assembly. The polymeric construction enables the insert component to conform to the partition and the floating seal assembly more effectively than the metal-to-metal joint of the compressor described inFIGS. 1-3, particularly during operation of the compressor.

Operation of the compressor, especially at high loads, may cause the partition to deform. Such deformation may act on the component(s) engaging the partition to create respective areas of high pressure and low pressure on the component. In the example described inFIGS. 1-3, thedeformed partition22 acts on the floatingseal assembly78 to create respective high and low pressure areas on a top surface of thepartition22. The metal interface surfaces of thepartition22 and the floatingseal assembly78 may be too inflexible to provide a continuous interface and fluidic seal when the partition deforms. The resulting imperfect seal may create leak paths and lead to a lower overall compressor efficiency.

In various aspects, the polymeric composite insert component according to the teachings of the present disclosure may be relatively elastic. Thus, it can form a more compliant interface and an improved seal compared to a metal-to-metal interface. In certain embodiments, a first contact surface of the polymeric composite insert component that engages the partition may be provided with a waveform shape that compliments the deformation of the partition to create a relatively uniform contact pressure and further improve sealing at the first and the second interfaces. In certain other embodiments, the first contact surface of the polymeric composite insert component may be provided with a circumferential protrusion, such as a circumferential barrel, to increase pressure at the first and the second interfaces.

The polymer resin of the polymeric composite insert component may be further provided with a reinforcement or lubricating phase (e.g., reinforcing or lubricating filler particles or fibers) that forms a polymeric composite, which is particularly advantageous for use as a part of a seal component in a scroll member, such as the polymeric composite insert component. A “composite” can refer to a material which includes a polymer resin or matrix having a plurality of reinforcing or lubricating particles distributed throughout as a reinforcement phase. Composite polymer matrices provide additional strength and structural integrity, while providing superior wear resistance for use as a seal material.

In various aspects, suitable polymers include a thermoplastic resin, which provides a heat-resistant matrix for at least one or more distinct reinforcing or lubricating particles to form the composite that forms the insert component. Suitable thermoplastic polymers can be selected from the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) family. In certain variations, the polyaryletherketone (PAEK) thermoplastic polymer can be selected from the group consisting of: polyetherketone (PEK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetheretheretherketone (PEEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetheretherketoneketone (PEEKK) polyetherketoneetheretherketone (PEKEEK), and polyetheretherketonetherketone (PEEKEK) and combinations thereof. In other variations, the thermoplastic matrix material may comprise polyamide imide (PAI), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polyphthalamide (PPA), or polyether imide (PEI) alone or as combined with any of the other suitable thermoplastic polymers discussed just above. In certain variations, the thermoplastic polymer is selected from the group consisting of: a polyaryl ether ketone (PAEK) or other ultra-performing polymer including, but not limited to poly(phenylene sulphide) (PPS), poly(sulphone) (PS), polyamide imide (PAI), or polyimide (PI). In certain variations, a particularly desirable carrier material or thermoplastic polymer is an ultra-performance, high temperature thermoplastic resin, such as a member of the polyaryl ether ketone (PAEK) family like polyetheretherketone (PEEK). In various aspects, the polymer includes a thermoset resin. Suitable thermoset resins include epoxy, polyester, phenolic, and imides, such as polyamide imide (PAI) and polyimide (PI) (which may be formulated as thermoplastic or thermoset).

Reinforcing or lubricating particles for the composite material of the insert component may include inorganic materials, metals, or high performance polymeric materials (particles or fibers). The reinforcing particles or fillers can be any number of anti-friction/anti-wear compounds including, but not limited to inorganic fillers, organic fillers, and polymeric particles used as fillers. Thus a solid material in particulate form (e.g., a plurality of solid particles) that contributes to a low coefficient of friction or provides additional tribological or synergistic properties to the overall anti-wear material composition, while reinforcing the resin in the composite, is particularly desirable. In various aspects, the composite material of the insert component includes at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle. In certain variations, a suitable composite for the insert component comprises a first reinforcing or lubricating particle and a second reinforcing or lubricating particle distinct from the first reinforcing or lubricating particle. In yet other variations, the composite for the insert component may comprise three or more distinct reinforcing and/or lubricating particles.

In certain variations, the composite of the insert component comprises a plurality of reinforcing particles that are distinct from one another. In certain variations, the insert component comprises at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle selected from the group consisting of: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), tungsten disulfide (WS₂), antimony trioxide, hexagonal boron nitride, carbon fiber, graphite, graphene, lanthanum fluoride, carbon nanotubes, polyimide particles (or powderized polyimide polymer), polybenzimidazole (PBI) particles, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, a first reinforcing particle and a second reinforcing particle distinct from the first reinforcing particle can be independently selected from the group consisting of: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles (or powderized PTFE), molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) particles, tungsten disulfide (WS₂), antimony trioxide, hexagonal boron nitride particles, carbon fibers, graphite particles, graphene particles, lanthanum fluoride, carbon nanotubes, polyimide particles (or powderized polyimide polymer), polybenzimidazole (PBI) particles (e.g., fibers), and combinations thereof. In certain preferred variations, three distinct reinforcing or lubricating particles are independently selected from the group consisting of: poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE), graphite, carbon fiber, antimony trioxide, carbon nanotubes, polyimide, and combinations thereof. In certain variations, a first reinforcing or lubricating particle comprises poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) particles, while a second reinforcing or lubricating particle comprises graphite, and a third reinforcing or lubricating particle comprises carbon fiber.

Referring toFIGS. 4A-4C, one embodiment of a polymericcomposite insert component200 according to certain aspects of the present disclosure is shown. A polymericcomposite insert component200 includes anannular body202 and an axial projection. The axial projection comprises a plurality of circumferentially-disposedtabs204. The circumferentially-disposedtabs204 project from theannular body202. Theannular body202 has an annularinner surface206 that defines a centrally-disposedopening208. Acentral axis210 extends longitudinally through the centrally-disposedopening208. Theannular body202 includes afirst side212 and asecond side214 opposite thefirst side212.

Theannular body202 includes an annularouter surface216. Thefirst side212 of theannular body202 includes atab surface218 and afirst contact surface220. Thefirst contact surface220 is disposed in a radially outward position from thetab surface218. Thefirst contact surface220 may be substantially planar. Thesecond side214 includes asecond contact surface222. Thesecond contact surface222 may be substantially planar. Thesecond contact surface222 may be disposed substantially parallel to thefirst contact surface220 such that the first and the second contact surfaces220,222 are substantially perpendicular to thecentral axis210. Thetab surface218 has afirst height224 with respect to thesecond contact surface222 in an axial direction parallel to thecentral axis210. Thefirst contact surface220 has asecond height226 with respect to thesecond contact surface222 in the axial direction. Although thefirst height224 is shown as less than thesecond height226 inFIG. 4A, in various other embodiments, the first and the

second heights

224,226 may be equal or thesecond height226 may be greater than thefirst height224. Theannular body202 should have a minimum thickness to provide a sufficient seal. The minimum thickness may be dependent upon load, contact pressure, and stress.

Thetabs204 are circumferentially-disposed about thecentral axis210. Thus, each of therespective tabs204 may be disposed at an equal distance from thecentral axis210 and spaced at a pre-determined distance around thetab surface218 ofannular body202. Thetabs204 project from thetab surface218 and extend along atab axis228 that is substantially parallel to thecentral axis210. Eachtab204 has a fixedend230 and afree end232. Thefixed end230 joins thetab204 to theannular body202. Thefree end232 can be radially-inwardly flexed toward thecentral axis210. As will be discussed in greater detail in other embodiments, thetabs204 may be flexed radially inwardly when the polymericcomposite insert component200 is assembled to a partition of a scroll compressor.

Eachtab204 may include anarm234 and alip236. Thearm234 extends between thefixed end230 and thefree end232. Thelip236 is disposed at thefree end232 and extends radially outwardly from thearm234. As best shown inFIG. 4C, thearm234 has an arc-shaped cross section in a transverse plane perpendicular to thetab axis228. Thus, a radially-inward arm surface238 and a radially-outward arm surface240 are each curved. The radially-inward arm surface238 may be continuous with the annularinner surface206.

Thelip236 may include athird contact surface242 that extends radially outwardly from the radially-outward arm surface240. Thethird contact surface242 may be substantially perpendicular to the radially-outward arm surface240. Asloped surface244 extends from thethird contact surface242, radially inwardly toward thefree end232 of thearm234. Anupper lip surface246 extends between thesloped surface244 and the radially-inward arm surface238.

With reference toFIGS. 5A-7, a portion of ascroll compressor260 is shown. Thescroll compressor260 includes apartition plate262 and a floatingseal assembly264 that may be similar to thepartition plate22 and floatingseal assembly78 of thecompressor10 ofFIG. 1. Thescroll compressor260 further includes a polymericcomposite insert component266 that is coupled to thepartition plate262 and engages the floatingseal assembly264. Although the polymericcomposite insert component266 is shown as being disposed between thepartition plate262 and the floatingseal assembly264, in other embodiments, the polymericcomposite insert component266 may be disposed between thepartition plate262 and a non-orbiting scroll (see e.g.,non-orbiting scroll66 ofFIG. 1). Various components of the floatingseal assembly264 are the same as those shown inFIGS. 1-3. For brevity, floating seal assembly components previously discussed in the context ofFIGS. 1-3 will not be reintroduced in subsequent discussion of the figures, unless pertinent to the features discussed herein.

The polymericcomposite insert component266 includes anannular body268 and circumferentially-disposedtabs270 similar to theannular body202 and circumferentially-disposedtabs204 ofFIGS. 4A-4C. Theannular body268 includes a first annularinner surface272, a first centrally-disposed opening274 (FIG. 5B), and acentral axis276 similar to the annularinner surface206, centrally-disposedopening208, andcentral axis210 ofFIGS. 4A-4C. Theannular body268 further includes afirst side278 disposed toward thepartition plate262 and asecond side280 disposed toward the floatingseal assembly264. Afirst contact surface282 of thefirst side278 is defined by acircumferential barrel284 and engages thepartition plate262. Asecond contact surface286 is substantially planar and engages theface seal98 of the floatingseal assembly264.

Each of the circumferentially-disposedtabs270 includes atab axis288, afixed end290, afree end292, anarm294, and alip296 similar to thetab axis228, fixedend230,free end232,arm234, andlip236 of the polymericcomposite insert component200 ofFIGS. 4A-4C. Eacharm294 includes a radially-outward arm surface298 similar to the radially-outward arm surface240 of the polymericcomposite insert component200 ofFIGS. 4A-4C. Eachlip296 includes athird contact surface300 and anupper lip surface302 similar to thethird contact surface242 andupper lip surface246 of the polymeric composite insert component ofFIGS. 4A-4C.

Thepartition plate262 includes a second annularinner surface304 defining a second centrally-disposed opening306 (FIG. 5B). The first and second centrally-disposed

openings

274,306 are coaxial such that they are both aligned with thecentral axis276. Thepartition plate262 further includes atop surface308 and abottom surface310 opposite thetop surface308. Thetop surface308 is oriented toward a discharge muffler chamber (see, e.g., dischargemuffler chamber74 ofFIG. 1) and thebottom surface310 is oriented toward the polymericcomposite insert component266.

Thefirst contact surface282 of theannular body268 of the polymericcomposite insert component266 at least partially engages thebottom surface310 of thepartition plate262. The circumferentially-disposedtabs270 project through the second centrally-disposedopening306 of thepartition plate262. The radially-outward arm surface298 at least partially engages the second annularinner surface304 of thepartition plate262. Thelips296 of the circumferentially-disposedtabs270 extend radially outwardly to engage aninner diameter312 of thetop surface308 of thepartition plate262. More specifically, the third contact surfaces300 of thelips296 engage thetop surface308 of thepartition plate262 to retain the polymericcomposite insert component266 on thepartition plate262. While the polymericcomposite insert component266 is shown as being fixed to thepartition plate262, a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that it could alternatively be fixed to the floatingseal assembly264. In such an embodiment, the circumferentially-disposedtabs270 of the polymericcomposite insert component266 would project through a third centrally-disposed opening313 (FIG. 5B) of the floatingseal assembly264 to couple the polymericcomposite insert component266 to the floatingseal assembly264 in a similar manner as described above with respect to thepartition plate262.

In various aspects, the present teachings provide a method of attaching the polymericcomposite insert component266 to thepartition plate262. The polymericcomposite insert component266 is brought to abottom side314 of thepartition plate262 so that thefirst side278 of the polymericcomposite insert component266 is orientated toward thebottom surface310 of thepartition plate262. Thecentral axis276 of the polymericcomposite insert component266 is aligned with the second centrally-disposedopening306 of thepartition plate262. The polymericcomposite insert component266 is translated toward thepartition plate262 in anupward direction316 substantially parallel to thecentral axis276. The upper lip surfaces302 of thetabs270 engage thepartition plate262 to deflect thetabs270 radially inwardly toward one another and toward thecentral axis270. Thelips296 slide along the second annularinner surface304 of thepartition plate262 until they clear the second centrally-disposedopening306 of thepartition plate262. Thelips296 then snap radially outwardly so that the radially-outward arm surface298 engages the second annularinner surface304 and thethird contact surface300 engages thetop surface308 of thepartition plate262.

Although thefirst contact surface282 and thethird contact surface300 are both shown as being in contact with thepartition plate262, in other embodiments, the simultaneous contact of both thefirst contact surface282 and thethird contact surface300 with thepartition plate262 is unnecessary. In one example, the circumferentially-spacedtabs204 of polymericcomposite insert component266 may omit thelip236 altogether. This configuration is possible because of a relatively small clearance between the floatingseal assembly264 and thepartition plate262. In this configuration, thearms294 may be long enough to cover the relatively small clearance.

When thecompressor260 is in operation, thepartition plate262 may become deformed, particularly under high loads. Some deformation of thepartition plate262 may also occur when the compressor is not in operation (e.g., due to the cold rolling manufacturing process used to form the partition plate, press fit of thepartition plate262 to theshell12 or thecap14, or welding thepartition plate262 to the shell12). Deflection of thepartition plate262 may cause a non-uniform pressure distribution at afirst interface318 defined between thebottom surface310 of thepartition plate262 and thefirst contact surface282 of the polymericcomposite insert component266. The non-uniform pressure distribution at thefirst interface318 leads to a corresponding non-uniform pressure distribution at asecond interface320 defined between thesecond contact surface286 of the polymericcomposite insert component266 and theface seal98 of the floatingseal assembly264. The non-uniform pressure distributions at thefirst interface318 and thesecond interface320 can result in non-contact areas at the

interfaces

318,320, thereby creating leak paths and reducing overall compressor efficiency.

In one example, thepartition plate262 may include one or morelower stiffness regions322. Thelower stiffness region322 may be a relatively flat lobe for mounting a pressure relief valve and a temperature relief valve (not shown), by way of non-limiting example. Thelower stiffness region322 deflects in adownward direction324 parallel to thecentral axis276 and opposite theupward direction316. Downward deflection of thepartition plate262 creates relatively a high pressure region at thefirst interface318 at the circumferential position of thelower stiffness region322. Another higher pressure region may be present at a circumferential position opposite the lower stiffness region322 (i.e., about 180° from thelower stiffness region322 with respect to the central axis276). The deflection of thepartition plate262 may also create corresponding lower pressure regions that are disposed between the higher pressure regions (e.g., about 90° from each the higher pressure regions, when there are two higher pressure regions). The higher pressure regions and lower pressure regions may be present at both thefirst interface318 and thesecond interface320.

Inward deflection of thepartition plate262 at the second annularinner surface306 may also cause decreased contact between thetop surface308 of thepartition plate262 and thethird contact surface300 of thelips296. With reference toFIG. 7, thetab270 is shown engaging thepartition plate262. Aplane334 is disposed perpendicular to thecentral axis276. Atab angle336 is defined between theplane334 and the radially-outward arm surface298. Thetab angle336 may be about 90°.

Referring now toFIGS. 9A-9B, another polymericcomposite insert component360 is shown. The polymericcomposite insert component360 includes anannular body362 and an axial projection comprising a plurality of circumferentially-disposedtabs364 extending therefrom. Theannular body362 has an annularinner surface366 defining a centrally-disposedopening368. Acentral axis370 extends through the centrally-disposedopening368. Theannular body362 has afirst side372 and asecond side374 opposite thefirst side372. Thefirst side372 includes afirst contact surface376 and thesecond side374 includes asecond contact surface378.

The circumferentially-disposedtabs364 may be similar to the circumferentially-disposedtabs270 ofFIGS. 5A-7. Theannular body362 includes a plurality of circumferentially-disposedopenings380. The circumferentially-disposedopenings380 are disposed adjacent to and in a radially outward position from the respective plurality of circumferentially-disposedtabs364. Theopenings380 may decrease a stiffness of thetabs364 at afixed end382 to enable thetabs364 to more readily flex radially inwardly when the polymericcomposite insert component360 is assembled to a partition or a floating seal assembly.

The polymericcomposite insert component360 may further include an anti-rotation feature (not shown). The anti-rotation feature may prevent the polymeric composite insert component from rotating about thecentral axis370 with respect to the partition plate. By way of non-limiting example, the anti-rotation feature may include a hole, notch, slot, or other receptacle that engages a protrusion in the partition plate. Alternatively, the protrusion may be present on the polymericcomposite insert component360 and the receptacle may be present on the partition plate.

In other embodiments, thefirst side422 may include different geometry to complement and conform to expected deflection of the partition plate. In one example, thefirst side422 may have other quantities of alternating peaks and valleys, such as three peaks and three valleys, four peaks and four valleys, or ten peaks and ten valleys. In another example, thefirst side422 may a sloped surface having a single high point (i.e., a single peak). In yet another example, thefirst side422 may have a single discrete hump or protrusion that does not extend circumferentially around the entirefirst side422.

In still other embodiments, thesecond side424 may be non-planar. For example, thesecond side424 may have geometry to complement and conform to expected deflection of the floating seal assembly. In one example, thesecond side424 may include a circumferential waveform shape having alternating peaks and valleys, similar to thepeaks386 andvalleys384 of thefirst side422 shown inFIGS. 9A-9B. In another example, thesecond side424 may have a discrete high point or low point.

Referring toFIGS. 10A-10B, yet another polymericcomposite insert component410 is shown. The polymericcomposite insert component410 includes anannular body412 and a plurality of circumferentially-disposedtabs414 extending therefrom. Theannular body412 has an annularinner surface416 defining a centrally-disposedopening418. Acentral axis420 extends through the centrally-disposedopening418. Theannular body412 has afirst side422 and asecond side424 opposite thefirst side422. Thefirst side422 includes afirst contact surface426 and thesecond side424 includes asecond contact surface428. The circumferentially-disposedtabs414 may be similar to the circumferentially-disposedtabs270 ofFIGS. 5A-7. Theannular body412 includes a plurality of circumferentially-disposedopenings430 similar to the circumferentially-disposedopenings380 ofFIGS. 9A-9B.

Thefirst contact surface426 may define acircumferential protrusion432. Thecircumferential protrusion432 may be disposed in a radially outward position from the circumferentially-disposedtabs414. Thecircumferential protrusion432 may be hump or barrel-shaped. Thecircumferential protrusion432 may increase average pressure between the polymericcomposite insert component410 and a partition plate by decreasing average contact area. The increased pressure reduces leak paths to provide a better fluid seal.

In some embodiments, thefirst contact surface426 may include more than onecircumferential protrusions432. For example, thefirst contact surface426 may include a first circumferential protrusion and a second circumferential protrusion disposed in a radially outward position from the first circumferential protrusion. Thus, a circumferential void space may be disposed between the first circumferential protrusion and the second circumferential protrusion. The inclusion of multiple circumferential protrusions may further improve the fluid seal.

With reference toFIGS. 11A-11C, yet another polymericcomposite insert component440 is shown. The polymericcomposite insert component440 includes anannular body442 and an axial projection including a plurality of circumferentially-disposedtabs444. Theannular body442 may be similar to theannular body268 ofFIGS. 5A-7. Thus, theannular body442 may include an annularinner surface446 defining a centrally-disposedopening448.

Each of the circumferentially-disposedtabs444 includes afixed end450 and afree end452. The circumferentially-disposedtab444 includes acircumferential connector454 disposed at thefixed end450, anarm456 extending between thefixed end450 and thefree end452, and acircumferentially extending lip458 disposed at thefree end452. Thetab444 is connected to the annularinner surface446 of theannular body442 by thecircumferential connector454.

The free ends452 of thetabs444 can flex radially inwardly when the polymericcomposite insert component440 is assembled to a partition plate or a floating seal assembly. Thetabs444 have a rectangular cross section at a transverse plane perpendicular to a central axis460 of theannular body442. Thetabs444 having a rectangular cross section have a lower stiffness than thetabs204 ofFIGS. 4A-4C, which have arc-shaped cross sections. Thus, thetabs444 having a rectangular cross section exhibit less resistance to flexing radially inwardly during assembly to the partition plate or the floating seal assembly. Furthermore, a flex axis for thetabs444 fixed to the annularinner surface446 is lower compared to thetabs204 fixed to thetab surface218 ofFIGS. 4A-4C. Thus, thetabs444 have a longer lever arm than thetabs204 and can therefore be radially-inwardly flexed with less effort.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A polymeric composite insert component for a scroll compressor comprising a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle, the polymeric composite insert component comprising:

an annular body comprising a first annular inner surface defining a first centrally-disposed opening that has a central axis extending therethrough, the annular body having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first side comprising a first contact surface configured to engage a partition plate and the second side comprising a second contact surface configured to engage a floating seal assembly; and

an axial projection extending from the first side of the annular body, the axial projection being configured to engage the partition plate, wherein the polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal both a first interface defined between the first contact surface and the partition plate, and a second interface defined between the second contact surface and the floating seal assembly during operation of the scroll compressor.

2. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 1, wherein the axial projection comprises a plurality of circumferentially-disposed tabs configured to engage the partition plate to couple the polymeric composite insert component to the partition plate, each respective circumferentially-disposed tab projecting axially from the first side of the annular body.

3. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 2, wherein each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality further comprises a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being connected to the annular body and the free end being configured to flex in a radially inward direction toward the central axis.

4. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 3, wherein each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality comprises an arm extending between the fixed end and the free end, and a radially-outwardly extending lip disposed at the free end, the arm being configured to extend through a second centrally-disposed opening in the partition plate, and the lip having a third contact surface configured to engage the partition plate.

5. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 4, wherein each arm comprises a radially-outward arm surface configured to engage a second annular inner surface of the partition plate, and a tab angle is defined between the radially-outward arm surface and a transverse plane substantially perpendicular to the central axis, the tab angle being less than or equal to about 90°.

6. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 2, wherein each respective circumferentially-disposed tab has a rectangular cross section in a transverse plane substantially perpendicular to the central axis.

8. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 7, wherein:

the second contact surface is substantially planar;

the annular body has a first thickness at the first and the second circumferential locations; and

the annular body has a second thickness at the third circumferential location and the fourth circumferential location, the second thickness being greater than the first thickness.

9. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 1, wherein the first contact surface of the annular body includes a circumferential protrusion.

10. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 1, wherein:

the polymer is a thermoplastic polymer selected from the group consisting of: polyaryletherketone (PAEK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetheretheretherketone (PEEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyetheretherketoneketone (PEEKK) polyetherketoneetheretherketone (PEKEEK), polyetheretherketonetherketone (PEEKEK), poly(phenylene sulphide) (PPS), poly(sulphone) (PS), polyamide imide (PAI), polyimide (PI), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyetherimide (PEI), and combinations thereof; and

the at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle is selected from the group consisting of: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), tungsten disulfide (WS₂), antimony trioxide, hexagonal boron nitride, carbon fiber, graphite, graphene, lanthanum fluoride, carbon nanotubes, polyimide, polybenzimidazole (PBI), and combinations there.

11. The polymeric composite insert component ofclaim 1, wherein the polymer is a thermoset polymer selected from the group consisting of: epoxy, polyester, phenolic, and imides, such as polyamide imide (PAI) and polyimide (PI).

12. A scroll compressor comprising:

a polymeric composite insert component comprising a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle, wherein the polymeric composite insert component further comprises:

an annular body having a first annular inner surface defining a first centrally-disposed opening having a central axis extending therethrough; and

an axial projection extending from the annular body;

a partition plate comprising a second centrally-disposed opening, wherein the second centrally-disposed opening is aligned with the first centrally-disposed opening with respect to the central axis; and

a floating seal assembly having a third centrally-disposed opening, wherein the third centrally-disposed opening is aligned with the first centrally-disposed opening and the second centrally-disposed opening with respect to the central axis, the polymeric composite insert component is disposed between the partition plate and the floating seal assembly, and the polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal a first interface defined between the polymeric composite insert component and the partition plate, and a second interface defined between the polymeric composite insert component and the floating seal assembly during operation of the scroll compressor.

13. The scroll compressor ofclaim 12, wherein the axial projection comprises a plurality of circumferentially-disposed tabs projecting axially from the annular body, and the circumferentially-disposed tabs extend through the second centrally-disposed opening to engage the partition plate to couple the polymeric composite insert component to the floating seal assembly.

14. The scroll compressor ofclaim 13, wherein each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality comprises a fixed end connected to the annular body, a free end configured to flex in a radially-inward direction toward the central axis, an arm extending between the fixed end and the free end, and a radially-outwardly extending lip disposed at the free end, the lip engaging the partition plate to couple the polymeric composite insert component to the partition plate.

15. The scroll compressor ofclaim 14, wherein each arm comprises a radially-outward arm surface configured to engaged a second annular inner surface of the partition plate, and an angle is defined between the radially-outward arm surface and a transverse plane substantially perpendicular to the central axis, the angle being less than about 90°.

16. The scroll compressor ofclaim 14, wherein each respective circumferentially-disposed tab has a rectangular cross section in a transverse plane perpendicular to the central axis.

17. The scroll compressor ofclaim 13, wherein the polymeric composite insert component comprises a first contact surface at the first interface, the first contact surface including a circumferential protrusion disposed in a radially outward position from the plurality of circumferentially-disposed tabs.

19. The scroll compressor ofclaim 12, wherein:

the at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle is selected from the group consisting of: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂), tungsten disulfide (WS₂), antimony trioxide, hexagonal boron nitride, carbon fiber, graphite, graphene, lanthanum fluoride, carbon nanotubes, polyimide, polybenzimidazole (PBI), and combinations thereof.

20. A method of assembling a scroll compressor comprising:

aligning a first centrally-disposed opening of a polymeric composite insert component with a second centrally-disposed opening of a partition plate along a central axis, wherein the polymeric composite insert component comprises a polymer and at least one reinforcing or lubricating particle and defines an annular body comprising the first centrally-disposed opening having the central axis extending therethrough;

orienting a plurality of circumferentially-disposed tabs on the polymeric composite insert component toward the partition plate, each respective circumferentially-disposed tab of the plurality projecting axially from a side of the annular body and comprising a fixed end connected to the annular body, a free end opposite the fixed end, an arm extending between the fixed end and the free end, and a radially-outwardly extending lip disposed at the free end;

contacting a sloped surface of the free end of the lip of each respective circumferentially-disposed tab with the partition plate; and

translating the polymeric composite insert component toward the partition plate and causing the lips of the respective circumferentially-disposed tabs of the plurality to deflect radially inwardly until the lips snap radially outwardly and engage the partition plate to retain the polymeric composite insert component on the partition plate, and a surface defined by the side of the annular body engages the partition plate, wherein the polymeric composite insert component is configured to fluidly seal an interface defined between the surface and the partition plate during operation of the scroll compressor.