Can a high liquid level in the propylene refrigerant collection tank cause high outlet pressure in the propylene refrigeration compressor?
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Gentlemen, can a high liquid level in the propylene refrigerant collection tank cause the high-pressure interlock shutdown of the propylene refrigeration compressor? At my previous workplace, we used to fill the propylene refrigerant collection tank to over 90% capacity, and there was no issue with high pressure at the compressor’s outlet. At my new workplace, however, engineers often say that a high liquid level in the collection tank can lead to such an interlock shutdown. Could it be that I’m missing something here?
If the liquid level in the condenser tank at the propylene compressor outlet is full, it will result in high outlet pressure, provided that the tank is indeed full. The outlet pressure has been raised too high; under normal conditions, a liquid level of 60-70% should not cause a pressure-high interlock. Too much is as bad as too little
Where is the outlet condenser located, above or below the reflux tank? Check the previous flowchart.
The high-high interlock is set mainly to prevent liquid from entering the propylene compressor and causing impact on the impeller.
Is what the poster is referring to the propylene refrigerant collection tank located after the cooler at the compressor outlet? We also have propylene units here. In my opinion, it’s not a problem if the liquid level is high; the main concern is that once the level gets too high, the flow of liquid propylene in the outlet cooler will be hindered. An excess amount of liquid propylene in the cooler reduces the heat exchange area for gaseous propylene, which can lead to pressure issues – hence the need for interlocks
From the compressor outlet to the condenser and then to the storage tank, are there control valves for the gas phase and the liquid phase? (It’s best to include a flowchart.)