Piston compressor issues
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I have a question – I’m not very familiar with piston compressors, so I hope you won’t mind. Can the return valve of a piston compressor be closed completely? Is surge only a phenomenon that occurs in centrifugal compressors?
The return valve of a reciprocating compressor generally cannot be closed completely; a flow rate of about 5% is required. Reciprocating compressors do not experience surge, but they have pulsating vibrations.
The return valve can be fully closed, but the outlet valve must be fully open. Prevent pump stalling. Surge will not occur.
Close the return valve while opening the outlet valve, and open the return valve while closing the outlet valve. Otherwise, pressure will build up.