A scroll compressor is used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems to compress refrigerant gas for cooling. The design of a scroll system has been in existence since the early 20th century, but precision machining techniques did not support commercial development until the 1970s. A scroll consists of two spiral sections, one stationary and one that orbits in a circle, creating a compression effect needed for refrigeration.

Refrigeration systems require a compressor to operate correctly, because refrigerant gas needs to be compressed, then expanded to reduce the gas pressure. This pressure drop, combined with the refrigerant changing from a liquid to a vapor, lowers the temperature of the gas circulating inside metal coils and provides cooling. Low-pressure gas then returns to the compressor, and the cycle is repeated until the desired temperature is reached.

A scroll compressor can be very durable, because there are few moving parts and the unit is not subject to some kinds of compressor damage. Reciprocating compressors using pistons can be damaged if liquid refrigerant enters, because liquid does not compress and can damage or even destroy a compressor. A scroll will accept some liquid, because the moving scroll section is not locked against the stationary part, and can shift slightly if liquid enters. The effect of liquid on a compressor is called "liquid slugging," and a scroll compressor is a good choice if slugging is likely.