A centrifugal compressor is a device necessary for compressing and supplying various gases under pressure. This technological device has a fairly simple design and consists mainly of a rotor and a housing. Modern centrifugal compressors can be with open or hermetic drive, one- or two-stage.
The air cooling system in devices of this type can be either external or internal, carried out by means of air or water. In combination with high-quality components and a high-strength mechanical part, the centrifugal compressor compares favorably with serviceability, compactness and reliability. Separately, it is worth noting the low operating costs.
The main advantages of such a device as a centrifugal compressor are a longer overhaul time period, in comparison with other types of compressors, and air supply that does not contain traces of oil. The latter is very important because it prevents the possibility of contamination of the system, eliminates the problems associated with the organization of disposal of contaminants, reduces the risk of ignition of pipelines and filter maintenance costs.
The disadvantages include the low depth of regulation of the production process and the need for complex installation. For this reason, centrifugal compressors are most often used in enterprises operating on the principle of continuous air consumption during a continuous cycle. For example, in industries related to chemical technologies. In addition, a good centrifugal compressor has a rather high price, unlike, for example,
piston- type
compressors , which are much cheaper. However, in this case, the cost is not the main criterion for choosing in favor of one or another equipment. The thing is that the operation of reciprocating compressors is associated with much higher costs than the maintenance of centrifugal devices. That is why many enterprises prefer the latter.
One of the most important issues with centrifugal compressors is choosing the right refrigerant. Of great importance here is the
speed of sound, directly related to the peripheral speed of a given technological device, and specific volume. As a rule, preference is given to refrigerants of small capacity (in order to obtain high efficiency under operating conditions). It is possible to adjust the performance indicators of centrifugal compressors using inlet guide vanes that rotate in such a way as to direct steam at the right angle directly to the rotating wheel. This method is less effective than, for example, changing the speed, however, it allows you to organize work in a fairly wide range.
Today, such a product as a centrifugal compressor has found its application in a variety of gas turbine units, oil refining, mining, paper and metallurgical industries of modern industry. In addition, they are used in organizing transportation of natural gas, in turbojet engines, compressor stations, as well as for boosting aircraft engines.