Impact of higher inlet flow rate at the high-pressure cylinder inlet of a centrifugal compressor compared to that at the low-pressure cylinder inlet
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In the case of a centrifugal compressor where there is no return flow from the anti-surge valve, and no speed increase gearbox is installed in the unit, what impact will it have on the operation of the unit if the process requires 10,000 standard cubic meters of nitrogen to be introduced into the inlet pipeline of the high-pressure cylinder of the centrifugal compressor, while the inlet flow rate to the low-pressure cylinder remains unchanged?
If nitrogen is added additionally to the inlet pipeline of the high-pressure cylinder in a centrifugal compressor, resulting in a higher inlet flow rate in the high-pressure cylinder compared to that in the low-pressure cylinder, the effects on the compressor’s operation may include the following: 1. Increased load: The high-pressure cylinder will face a greater load due to the increased inlet flow rate, which may lead to an increase in the compressor’s power requirements. 2. Efficiency changes: An increase in flow rate may alter the operating point of the compressor, thereby affecting its efficiency. If it exceeds the design operating conditions, efficiency may decrease. 3. Rising temperature: An increase in flow rate can lead to an increase in the exhaust temperature of the compressor, thereby affecting the compressor’s temperature control and thermal load. 4. Surge risk: If the addition of nitrogen alters the balance between the high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders, it may increase the risk of surge. Even with surge valves in place, the surge problem may not be completely eliminated if it becomes impossible to restore the proper balance. 5. Mechanical stress: Changes in flow rate and pressure can lead to an increase in mechanical stress, affecting the stability and lifespan of the compressor. When adjusting the operating conditions of a compressor, its design parameters and the boundary conditions for safe operation must be taken into account comprehensively; professional technical support should be sought when necessary to ensure the safe and stable operation of the unit. .
Generally, the high-pressure cylinder and low-pressure cylinder refer to two compressors; if you want to add additional flow, it depends on whether the high-pressure compressor has enough capacity for that flow
The answer to this question is no. This unit is a combination of multiple compressors; it is recommended to understand its operation by breaking it down conceptually, and then the answer will become clear. I guess you’re trying to make the existing equipment work beyond its capacity without adding more equipment,,,,, that’s not possible. For reference.
In reality, this involves reducing the load on the low-pressure cylinder and increasing the load by 10,000 cubic meters on the high-pressure cylinder, but the high-pressure cylinder must not be overloaded!
It should be feasible to understand the cylinders separately. I don’t see any practical significance to it. Is it only the high-pressure part of the compressor unit? Is the low-pressure section unused? Or for something else? If it meets the requirements of all components of the unit, it should be possible. It's just that the density of the medium differs, which can be ignored. For reference.
An increase in the flow rate outside the high-pressure cylinder will raise the load on the centrifuge; if this value exceeds the designed limit, irreversible mechanical changes may occur. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer regarding the design