What is the use of a butterfly valve in axial compressor

In summary, the butterfly valve is there to reduce the exit flow area and prevent the direction of flow reversing and going back to the compressor.
  • #1
MattH150197
63
4

Homework Statement


In the image I have included it shows a diagram of the setup we used in a lab and you can see that at the right hand side there is a butterfly valve so I am wandering what would be the use of the valve in this situation. Since its after the compressor I was thinking that its there in case of surge to prevent the direction of flow reversing and going back to the compressor and maybe damaging it, is this right or is it for a another purpose. Thanks.
 

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  • #2
The butterfly valve is there to reduce the exit flow area . As the valve is closed more the back pressure on the compressor gets higher .

Not understanding how this works may account for the low value of pressure rise described in your previous posting . If the valve were wide open during a test the pressure rise across the compressor would be very small .

Note though that if the valve is closed too much the compressor may go into surge .
 
  • #3
Thanks for the quick response!
 
  • #4
Do you know anything about axial compressor theory and axial compressor performance charts ?
 
  • #5
Only the very basics, I am new to the subject.
 
  • #6
OK .
 
  • #7
I wonder if you could help me grasp the understanding of this, the image shows the instructions we were set for the experiment, in 4.) it says to close the butterfly valve one full revolution and in 5.) it says to continue closing it at one revolution intervals and you can see from the results set up we had in the other image we took 10 readings so does that mean at the beginning of each reading the valve would have been closed?
 

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  • #8
Not quite sure what you are asking about here ?

The instruction sheet tells you to perform a series of tests with each test being for a different steady state running condition .

For each test you preset the butterfly valve to required position and leave it set at that position for the duration of that test .

For each successive test the valve is closed more fully but for the duration of anyone test valve remains in a fixed position .
 
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  • #9
Yeah that makes sense thanks, the part confusing was where it says continue closing it at one revolution intervals which sounded like turn the valve 360 degrees between each interval which didn't make any sense. Thanks for clearing it up
 

1. What is a butterfly valve?

A butterfly valve is a type of valve that controls the flow of fluid by using a circular disc or vane that is positioned in the center of the pipe. The disc is connected to a rod at the top, which is turned by a handle or actuator to open or close the valve.

2. How is a butterfly valve used in an axial compressor?

In an axial compressor, a butterfly valve is typically used as a flow control valve to regulate the amount of air entering the compressor. It is often located at the inlet of the compressor and is used to adjust the airflow and pressure in the compressor based on the needs of the system.

3. What are the advantages of using a butterfly valve in an axial compressor?

Compared to other types of valves, butterfly valves have a simple design and are easy to operate. They also have a low pressure drop, which means less energy is required to operate them. In addition, butterfly valves are often more cost-effective and have a longer lifespan than other types of valves.

4. Are there any limitations to using a butterfly valve in an axial compressor?

While butterfly valves are commonly used in axial compressors, they do have some limitations. They may not be suitable for applications that require precise and accurate control of flow, as they are not as sensitive as other types of valves. They also have a limited range of operation and may not be able to handle extreme temperatures or pressures.

5. How can the performance of a butterfly valve in an axial compressor be optimized?

The performance of a butterfly valve in an axial compressor can be optimized by choosing the right size and type of valve for the specific application. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the valve can also help to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, using a well-designed control system can help to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the valve in the axial compressor.

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