The Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division of German automotive components manufacturer ZF has unveiled its latest electrification technology, an air compressor for commercial vehicles.

The e-comp Scroll is an oil-free, low-noise and minimal vibration air compression system for medium and heavy-duty hybrid, electric and fuel cell trucks, buses and coaches. Its reduced maintenance requirements contribute to lower operational costs than other electric air compressor technologies, according to the company.

As EVs operate more quietly than traditional internal combustion engine-powered vehicles, the noise generated by conventional piston compressors becomes more noticeable. The e-comp Scroll solves this by using the motion of interlocking scrolls to compress air, minimizing vibration while limiting noise emissions to around 67 dB(A) at the nominal operation point of 250 liters per minute. That is comparable to the noise level in an office environment.

Powered by an integrated electric motor, the e-comp Scroll efficiently compresses air up to 12.5 bar system pressure in a single stage and is capable of running at variable speeds to meet application demand.

The system also features an inverter and liquid cooling shell, which maintains the discharge temperature below 90° C (194° F).

“By offering an oil-free, low-noise and low-vibration air compression system, we are addressing the technological challenges posed by zero-emission targets for electric vehicles,” said Paweł Porczyński, Head of Product Line, Chassis Solutions for ZF CVS. “The design of the e-comp Scroll ensures efficient air compression while significantly reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) through low maintenance resulting from elimination of oil lubrication. By automatically switching off between compression cycles, the e-comp Scroll saves energy while enhancing the overall experience for the driver, passengers and other road users alike.”

Source: ZF