T or F: A reciprocating compressor has less vibration than a scroll compressor.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Depends

Answer: (A)

Vibration levels come from how the compressor moves gas and how the mechanical forces are transmitted to the frame. A reciprocating compressor uses pistons on a crankshaft, which creates pulsating gas flow and strong mechanical impulses as each stroke changes direction. Those impulses translate into noticeable vibration and often require anti-vibration mounts. A scroll compressor, on the other hand, has two spirals where one scroll orbits and continuously compresses gas in a smooth, sealing motion. That design minimizes pulsations and mechanical shocks, giving lower vibration and quieter operation. So the statement that a reciprocating compressor has less vibration than a scroll compressor isn’t correct; reciprocating units typically vibrate more.