AIR COMPRESSOR
PROBLEM:
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Inlet flow distortions can cause the compressor to operate at less than the factory rated flow, head, and efficiency and non-uniform flow can cause Interstage hunting.
SOLUTION:
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The compressor will operate closer to the factory rated flow, head, and efficiency.
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The compressor will have a lower suction piping pressure drop.
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The compressor will have reduced energy operating costs and will operate more efficiently.
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Less vibration, noise and turbulence.
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Lower compressor maintenance.
The operation and performance of centrifugal and axial compressors are sensitive to the flow velocities and flow distributions at their inlets. The ASME Power Test Code for compressors (PTC-10) requires a fully developed uniform
flow velocity profile when it enters the compressor OR there has to be a minimum straight run of three pipe diameters before the inlet, to produce a flat velocity profile. In field operations, however, compressors do not always have this ideal suction piping configuration.
Poor field suction piping includes single, double and triple elbows immediately upstream of the compressor, which create a considerable amount of flow turbulence and distortion. For example, large multistage axial or centrifugal compressors (i.e. a refrigeration compressor) that supply high pressure systems, can have upstream turns in the suction piping which result in non-uniform mass and flow profiles approaching the splitter in the compressor casing.
Flow Conditioning Solutions placed on the inlet side of an elbow, produces a flat velocity profile and an even distribution of process gas at the elbows exit. This allows the compressor to more closely approach its factory test inlet conditions and performance curves.
Applications Flow Conditioners for large and small operations utilizing compressed air systems from pneumatic tools to pipeline transportation. Transportation of liquids, pressurization of tanks, cooling, molding of petroleum products like plastics, and synthesis of petrochemicals.
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Petroleum Refining — By boosting the pressure of processed gas, a catalytic reaction used in the refining process will occur.
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Petrochemical Synthesis — Petrochemicals such as methanol, ammonia, ethylene, ethylene glycol and urea often rely on a specific pressurization of air and gas in the manufacturing processes.
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Gas injection — Increasing gas pressures and injecting oil layers can help promote the recovery of crude oil.
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Pipeline transportation — Utilizing gas and compressed air is common in transporting gas through pipelines. Pressures need to be maintained, which requires some form of compressor system to work correctly.
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Shell Refining in Washington – Special designed Flow Conditioning Solution for use on two elbows coupled together at the inlet of the compressor.
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Amoco Refining in Indiana – Flow Conditioning Solution for use on a compressor unit.
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Arco Refining in California – Flow Conditioning Solution for use on a FCCU compressor unit
