Speed control and flow variation of centrifugal compressors
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Is the outlet valve fully open under the rated operating conditions of the (natural gas) centrifugal compressor? If the compressor speed is reduced during normal operation, will both the flow rate and pressure decrease? After reducing the speed, how can the flow rate be brought back to normal operating conditions (ignoring pressure changes)?
The flow rate and outlet pressure are approximately proportional to the rotational speed; reducing the rotational speed results in a decrease in both the flow rate and outlet pressure. To increase flow, either increase the speed or open the anti-surge valve.