On Thursday 6 April, the SAIMC branch held its third Technology Evening for 2017 at Honeywell in Secunda. PJ Truter from Sasol presented on the topic ‘What is compressor surge and how does one prevent it?’
Johan Maritz (left) thanks PJ Truter after the presentation.
Compressors can be categorised into two groups: positive displacement machines and dynamic machines. The phenomenon of compressor surge is only applicable to dynamic machines, such as axial and centrifugal compressors. A compressor surge event can be simply described as a flow reversal through the machine. The indication of compressor surge is an increase in suction pressure, decrease in discharge pressure and a rapid flow reduction through the machine. High levels of vibration can also be expected on surging machines. The effects of surge can be damaging to compressor bearings and seals and should be prevented. Prevention of compressor surge is achieved with a recycle or spillback loop consisting of an anti-surge controller, recycle value and associated instrumentation. The anti-surge controller will utilise the recycle loop when the compressor approaches the surge region. The surge region is the area to the left of the compressor map or operating envelope and should be avoided.
The branch thanks PJ for an excellent presentation and for showing us how to prevent compressor surge in practice.
All instrumentation and control related artisans, technicians and engineers are welcome to attend the monthly Technology Evenings, the planned dates for the rest of the year are as follows: 6 July, 3 August, 7 September, 12 October and 2 November. Presentations earn CPD points for ECSA registered persons and enquiries can be directed to branch chairman Johan Maritz at [email protected] or 082 856 3865.
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