What are the bottom rings on a compressor piston known as?

The bottom rings on a compressor piston are best known as oil scraper rings. Their primary function is to control the amount of oil that is scraped off the cylinder wall into the combustion chamber, ensuring that there is adequate lubrication while preventing excessive oil from entering the combustion process. This is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of the compressor as it balances the need for lubrication with the need to minimize oil consumption.

Using oil scraper rings helps maintain the correct oil film thickness on the cylinder walls and prevents oil from mixing with the refrigerant. If too much oil were to enter the combustion chamber, it could lead to issues such as increased emissions and decreased efficiency. Therefore, understanding the role of oil scraper rings is essential for effective compressor operation and maintenance in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.