Understanding Centrifugal Compressor Flow Rates

In summary, the conversation is about understanding centrifugal compressors and their specifications. The question is whether the rated flow of a centrifugal compressor is under full working load or in a no-load condition. An example is given to clarify the concept, using a hypothetical cylinder and piston with a load attached externally. The conversation also touches on the difference between ACM/s and SCM/s in terms of gas volume measurement.
  • #1
linguist
10
0
I need some help in understanding a few things about air compressors & in particular Centifugal Compressors, could someone help me out with this please.
This is not homework, just me trying to understand.

If a Centrifugal compressor is rated at "just for example only" 10bar pressure @ 100 m^3/min, is this the rated flow out of an open hose or nozzle into the atmosphere, no load condition?

Or is this under full working load?

As an example only so I can understand more clearly using the compressor specs above.

If we have a hypothetical cylinder of 100 m^3 volume fitted with a piston inside, the piston has a load attached externally at the other end.
The pressure needed to move the piston & the load is say 9 bar, how long will it take for the piston to move the total length of the cylinder & for the compressor to fill the full volume of the cylinder.
In other words what would the flow rate be of the compressor in this situation.

A working example of the calculation to work this out would be very helpful.

Thanks
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
You need to know whetther the flow rate quoted is in ACM/s or SCM/s that is actual cubic meters / sec or standard cubic meters / sec. ACM is the volume of the gas at the stated pressure SCM is the volume of the gas at standard pressure (and temperature) use absolute pressure and temperature. Very very roughly 100 ACM at 10 bar A will be 1000 SCM.
 
  • #3
Thanks Jobrag.

I see what your saying.

Thanks again

Cheers
 

1. What is a centrifugal compressor?

A centrifugal compressor is a type of mechanical device that uses centrifugal force to compress gases and increase their pressure and temperature. It is commonly used in industrial processes, such as in oil refineries and natural gas pipelines, to move and compress large volumes of gases.

2. How do centrifugal compressors work?

Centrifugal compressors work by converting the kinetic energy of a gas into potential energy. The gas enters the compressor at a low velocity, is accelerated by the rotating impeller, and then exits at a high velocity. This high-velocity gas is then directed into a diffuser, where it is slowed down and the kinetic energy is converted into pressure.

3. What is the relationship between flow rate and pressure in a centrifugal compressor?

The flow rate and pressure in a centrifugal compressor are inversely related. This means that as the flow rate increases, the pressure decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is governed by the compressor's performance curve, which shows the maximum flow rate at a given pressure ratio.

4. How is the flow rate of a centrifugal compressor measured?

The flow rate of a centrifugal compressor is typically measured in standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) or cubic meters per hour (m3/h). This can be done using various methods, such as using a flow meter or by calculating it based on the compressor's performance curve and operating conditions.

5. What factors affect the flow rate of a centrifugal compressor?

The flow rate of a centrifugal compressor can be affected by several factors, including the rotational speed of the impeller, the size and design of the impeller and diffuser, the gas properties (such as density and viscosity), and the compressor's operating conditions (such as inlet temperature and pressure). Changes in these factors can impact the compressor's performance and flow rate.

Similar threads

  • General Engineering
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • General Engineering
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
20
Views
609
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
518
Back
Top