Compressor Types, Operation, and Efficiency

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Questions and Answers

Which statement best describes the primary function of a compressor?

  • To transfer heat between two fluids using mechanical motion.
  • To reduce the volume of a gas, thereby increasing its pressure. (correct)
  • To decrease the pressure of a fluid while maintaining its volume.
  • To convert thermal energy into mechanical energy.

When selecting a compressor, what is the most important parameter used for its classification?

  • The lubrication method used within the compressor's mechanism.
  • The type of gas being compressed, such as air or refrigerant.
  • The pressure ratio achieved between the inlet and outlet. (correct)
  • The compressor's power source; electric, gasoline, etc.

Which type of compressor generally achieves the highest efficiency under typical operating conditions?

  • An axial flow compressor. (correct)
  • A reciprocating compressor.
  • A screw compressor.
  • A centrifugal compressor.

Which thermodynamic process, when approximated in a compressor, requires the least amount of energy input?

<p>Isothermal (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using multi-stage compression instead of single-stage compression?

<p>To reduce the overall work required for compression, improving efficiency. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does intercooling, implemented in multi-stage compression systems, generally affect the power consumption of the compressor?

<p>Intercooling decreases the power consumption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For applications requiring extremely high pressure and relatively low flow rates, which type of compressor is generally the most suitable?

<p>Reciprocating compressor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a centrifugal compressor, which component is specifically designed to convert kinetic energy of the gas into pressure?

<p>Diffuser (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which parameter or metric is most appropriately used to assess the overall effectiveness of a compressor?

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs to the volumetric efficiency of a reciprocating compressor if the clearance volume is increased while other parameters remain constant?

<p>The volumetric efficiency decreases. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following operational problems is most frequently associated with reciprocating compressors?

<p>Liquid slugging (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a centrifugal compressor, what is the most significant consequence of surge?

<p>Increased operational efficiency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition is most likely to cause a compressor stall in an axial compressor?

<p>Excessive blade loading. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a variable inlet guide vane (VIGV) in a centrifugal compressor?

<p>Control surge. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a reciprocating compressor, how does increasing the compression ratio primarily affect the discharge temperature of the gas?

<p>Leads to a higher discharge temperature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lubrication system is most commonly used in screw compressors?

<p>Oil-flooded lubrication (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a labyrinth seal in an axial compressor?

<p>To minimize gas leakage between consecutive stages of the compressor. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most critical factor in determining whether to use an axial or centrifugal compressor for a specific application?

<p>Required pressure ratio and flow rate characteristics. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a reciprocating compressor system, what is the primary function of an unloader valve?

<p>To reduce the motor power consumption during periods of low demand. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common cause of excessively high discharge temperature in a compressor?

<p>Low suction pressure. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Compressor Function

Reduces gas volume, increasing its pressure.

Compressor Classification

Pressure ratio.

Least Energy Requirement

Isothermal process.

Multi-Stage Compression

To reduce compression work.

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Intercooling effect

Intercooling decreases power consumption.

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High-Pressure, Low-Flow

Reciprocating compressors.

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Centrifugal Compressor Pressure Increase

Diffuser.

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Compressor Efficiency

All of the above (Isothermal, Mechanical, Volumetric).

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Increased Clearance Volume

Volumetric efficiency decreases.

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Reciprocating Compressor Problem

Liquid slugging.

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Compressor Surge Consequence

Reverse flow and instability.

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Axial Compressor Stall

Excessive blade loading.

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VIGV Function

Control surge.

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Compression ratio and temp

Higher ratio leads to higher temperature.

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Screw Compressor Lubrication

Oil-flooded lubrication.

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Labyrinth Seal Purpose

To prevent gas leakage between stages.

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Compressor choice factor

Required pressure ratio and flow rate.

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Unloader Valve Purpose

Reduce motor power consumption.

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High Discharge Temp Cause

Low suction pressure.

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Safety Standards Organization

ASME.

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Study Notes

  • A compressor works by decreasing gas volume and increasing pressure.
  • Compressors are classified primarily by pressure ratio.
  • Axial flow compressors, in general, operate most efficiently.
  • Isothermal thermodynamic processes require the least energy for a compressor.
  • Multistage compression reduces compression work.
  • Intercooling decreases power consumption in a multi-stage compressor.
  • Reciprocating compressors suit high-pressure, low-flow applications.
  • A diffuser increases gas pressure in a centrifugal compressor.
  • All of Isothermal, Mechanical, and Volumetric efficiencies are parameters to evaluate efficiency of a compressor.
  • Volumetric efficiency decreases as clearance volume increases in a reciprocating compressor.
  • Liquid slugging is a common problem in reciprocating compressors.
  • Compressor surge in centrifugal compressors mainly causes reverse flow and instability.
  • Excessive blade loading can cause compressor stall in axial compressors.
  • A VIGV (variable inlet guide vane) controls surge in a centrifugal compressor.
  • A higher compression ratio results in a higher discharge temperature in reciprocating compressors.
  • Screw compressors are typically use oil-flooded lubrication.
  • Labyrinth seals in axial compressors prevent gas leakage between stages.
  • The choice between axial and centrifugal compressors depends on the required pressure ratio and flow rate.
  • An unloader valve in a reciprocating compressor reduces motor power consumption.
  • Low suction pressure can cause high discharge temperature in a compressor.
  • ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) establishes safety standards for pressure vessels and compressor casings.
  • ASME BPVC Section VIII covers the pressure vessel design of compressors.
  • ISO 1217 specifies performance testing of compressors.
  • NFPA 99 regulates medical gas systems in relation to medical air compressors.
  • API 618 provides guidelines for safe operation of reciprocating compressors.
  • OSHA regulations provide safety guidelines for workers regarding air compressors.
  • Liquid slugging is commonly associated with reciprocating compressors.
  • Reverse flow and instability are what compressor surge in a centrifugal compressor leads to.
  • Excessive blade loading an lead to a compressor stall in an axial compressor.
  • The required pressure ratio and flow rate are the primary factors influencing the choice between axial and centrifugal compressors.

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