Compressors
Compressors are mechanical devices which are used to increase the pressure of the
fluid while reducing its volume. They are similar to pumps in the sense that both are
employed to increase the pressure of the fluid and both transport the fluid through a
pipe. Compressors work by converting
Types of Compressors
The two main types of compressors are positive displacement compressor and
dynamic compressor.
Positive displacement pump
Positive displacement pumps employ reciprocating action. Reciprocating
compressors have pistons that are driven by a crankshaft. The intake gas enters the
suction manifold, then flows into the compression cylinder where it gets compressed
by a piston driven in a reciprocating motion via a crankshaft, and is then
discharged. They produce an intermittent discharge flow. They are preferred for low
capacities but large developed head. They have low speeds and may have trouble
in handling viscous fluids.
Dynamic compressors
Dynamic compressors use centrifugal action for compressing fluids. They increase
the pressure at the same time as the gas flows. The flowing gas accelerates to a
high velocity by the help of the rotating blades, after which the velocity of the gas is
transformed to pressure when it is forced to decelerate under expansion. They
produce steady flow. They are used when large capacities are to be handled. They
have high speeds and handle all types of fluids.
Selection procedure
1. Understand the application
2. Find out the details
3. Scope of the supply
Understand the application
1. Describe the purpose of compressor
2. Many compressors operate at more than one condition. Determine why and
how often the various conditions occur.
Find out the details
A wide variety of data is needed to determine what type of compressors are
needed.
A comprehensive understanding of the following data is required
1. Gas being handled
2. Pressure at suction and discharge
3. Capacity
4. Suction temperature
5. Site elevation
In addition, following data may also prove helpful
1. Normal operating conditions
2. Duty cycle
3. Availability of cooling water
Scope of Supply
Compressors have different meanings depending on frame of reference.
Manufacturer views compressor as compressor block only.
A user generally has a plant or product that is his primary concern. Within the plant
will be a process that requires a 'compressor' to accomplish its task. In this context,
the 'compressor' is needed to transport the gas at some point in the system to
another point in the system at a higher pressure. Such a 'compressor' is actually a
process or system in itself and almost always consists of systems.
Selection of compressors
A comprehensive understanding of existing conditions is necessary for proper
selection of compressors. Following questions are needed to be answered before
choosing the right compressor.
What is the compressed fluid being used for?
Type of work thats being done is one of the most important factors in determining
the proper compressor. Compressor equaling the duty cycle of specific requirement
should be purchased.
How much is the required pressure?
It is important to consider the pressure in order to determine if single stage or multi
stage compressor is needed.
What Size and type of tank required?
Size depends on overall type of usage. If unit is to sustain short usage period than
small tank size are needed. If long usage periods are to be sustained than large
tanks are needed.
What electrical requirements are needed?
It is an important factor for choosing the right compressor. Voltage will determine
the horsepower capacity available without expensive modifications.
What control system is required?
Compressors require one of the three control systems in order to regulate operation
in accordance with air demand:
1. Start/Stop Control is used for applications where air is not required
continually, allowing the compressor sufficient cooling time
2. Constant Speed Control restrict the compressor from excessively starting and
stopping.
3. Dual Control allows the operation in either start/stop mode or constant speed
control mode by adjustment of the compressor auxiliary valve
What are the fluid properties?
Fluid properties also play important part in choosing the right compressor. Viscosity,
specific gravity, solid content in the fluid are all needed to be considered before
choosing the compressor.
