Compressor HVAC: Description and Operation

Description

The compressor is the power unit of the A/C system.
It is located on the side of engine block and driven by a V-belt of engine.
The compressor changes the low pressure and low temperature refrigerant gas into the high pressure and high temperature refrigerant gas.

Variable Swash Plate Compressor
The compressor has a swash plate that rotates to reciprocate pistons, which compress refrigerant.
The variable swash plate compressor controls the swash plate angle to change the refrigerant displacement. It achieves precise cooling capability control in accordance with vehicle interior and driving conditions.
The internally controlled variable swash plate compressor changes the swash plate angle by a MCV (Mechanical Control Valve) in accordance with fluctuation of a suction pressure.
The externally controlled variable swash plate compressor changes the swash plate angle by an ECV (Electric Control Valve) in accordance with an electrical signal from the heater & A/C control unit.
This enables stable temperature control and improved driving feeling.

ECV control diagram