What causes liquid accumulation in the inlet separator of a centrifugal ice machine?
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I would like to ask the experts here: Our company uses centrifugal ammonia cryogenic machines to supply liquid ammonia for low-temperature methanol washing cooling. The ammonia that vaporizes in the ammonia cooler returns to the inlet of the cryogenic machine where it is compressed again for reuse. However, recently there have been no abnormal fluctuations in production; the liquid level in the ammonia cooler is very low (around 30%). Yet, liquid is starting to accumulate in the separator at the inlet of the cryogenic machine. The liquid ammonia pump located below this separator pumps out ammonia once per hour. The following actions have already been taken； Check that the level gauge is functioning properly ； No change in the liquid level of the ammonia cooler, neither decreased nor increased ； Check that the LMMC production is stable with no fluctuations ； Reduce the temperature control valve at the inlet by one level to increase the temperature near the gas; the effect is not significant ； Reducing the speed of the chiller, opening the anti-surge valve, raising the inlet air temperature, and increasing the inlet air pressure yield little effect. Are there any other organizations that have encountered a similar situation and managed to resolve it? Please share your experiences.
No individual inspection was carried out; instead, after the major maintenance, the system was pressurized, and by checking the pressure drop, it was determined that there was no leakage in the ammonia cooler
Take a sample of the medium in the liquid ammonia pump and analyze it to see if there is methanol in it If the methanol content is high, it means the ammonia cooler is leaking
Turn the valve down a bit when it’s turned on; give it a try. A low refrigeration capacity is sufficient; or if there is liquid accumulation in the separator, slightly open the flash tank valve.
We use propylene for cooling, and we’ve encountered this problem as well. I wonder if your company has resolved this issue yet
We use propylene for cooling, and we’ve encountered this problem as well. I wonder if your company has resolved this issue yet
The engine speed should be reduced to lower the intake pressure
Increasing the speed is an effective method, but the speed of the chillers in my facility is already very high; this leads to increased energy consumption and is not conducive to the long-term operation of the units
Lower the liquid level in the ammonia cooler; it should not exceed 40%. Bubbling inside the ammonia cooler can easily lead to liquid being carried along with the gas