Discussion on whether a spare unit is required for the cycle hydrogen compressor in hydrogenation units
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As the title suggests: We all know that for the circulators in hydrogenation units, if reciprocating pumps are used, a backup unit is necessary; whereas if steam turbines are used, no backup unit is required, as steam does not lose pressure instantly. The question now is whether a standby unit can be omitted if an electric centrifugal compressor is used Personally, I think it should work on the same principle as a reciprocating machine! However, a certain design team believes that there is no need to consider spare units for centrifugal compressors. Please share your opinions! Thank you
Electric centrifugal compressors are generally considered to have high reliability, with a lower likelihood of failure compared to reciprocating compressors; as a result, some designs may not include a backup unit. However, to ensure the continuity and stability of production, it is still recommended to have a backup compressor. .
The role of a standby centrifugal compressor is not significant. The reason is that the main unit is shut down, and it is not possible to maintain stable hydrogen pressure when the standby unit starts up.
For centrifugal steam turbine compressors, the basic design does not include a backup unit. Under conditions of adequate power supply at the plant, medium-pressure steam, dedicated nitrogen supply, and stability, with no external influences, the centrifugal compressor operates stably (as the compression ratio of such compressors is generally low, which reduces the likelihood of damage). As long as there are no errors in operation or inadequate maintenance, the centrifugal compressor remains stable, and it should be possible for it to operate throughout one maintenance cycle. If a backup unit is to be used, it is necessary to consider whether there is enough space available on site; moreover, the cost of purchasing the centrifugal compressor along with its associated accessories is quite high.
It enables preventive maintenance by switching to a backup unit online!
This post was last edited by JumpingWind001 on 2024-6-26 at 14:28. The motor of this device drives a centrifugal compressor; there is no backup unit provided. It’s okay; there are no inconveniences. Just like in our catalytic units, the earliest models were equipped with two main fans, one as the primary unit and one as a backup. Later, as the quality of the equipment improved, one main fan was sufficient.
Meeting normal operating requirements is sufficient; currently the failure rate of centrifuges is basically 0. It’s not possible to design for extreme scenarios, as that would result in excessively high costs
Taking into account factors such as equipment cost-effectiveness and stability, centrifugal compressors do have advantages such as fewer vulnerable components and reliable performance. Moreover, with the improvements in manufacturing techniques such as material processing and machining, generally, even for electric-driven ones, cycle hydrogen compressors are not equipped with backup units.
To put it simply, it’s a game of strategy; here’s an example that might not be appropriate. Do you drive? Do you know why there is only one seat belt in each position in the car? A set of centrifuge units costs several million – are you willing to spend that much extra money in an attempt to achieve an event with an extremely low probability of occurring?