Steam compressors convert low-temperature and low-pressure steam into high-temperature and high-pressure steam through mechanical work. Its core process follows the thermodynamic cycle, mainly including the following four processes:

Compression process: The compressor sucks in low-temperature and low-pressure steam and compresses it through mechanical action (such as impeller rotation or piston movement), significantly increasing its pressure and temperature. For example, a centrifugal compressor does work on the steam through a high-speed rotating impeller.
Condensation process: The high-temperature and high-pressure steam enters the condenser and condenses into a high-pressure liquid after exchanging heat with the cooling medium (water or air), releasing latent heat.
Expansion process: The high-pressure liquid is depressurized through a throttling device (such as an expansion valve), and part of the liquid is vaporized into low-temperature and low-pressure steam.
Evaporation process: The low-temperature steam absorbs heat from the environment in the evaporator, and after complete vaporization, it re-enters the compressor to complete the cycle.
Key parameters: The compression ratio (outlet/inlet pressure ratio) and temperature rise are the core indicators. For example, the compression ratio of a Roots compressor can reach 2, and the temperature rise can be 20°C.