Bidirectional Gas Compressor Expander for Dual-Pressure Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas network devices are unidirectional, limiting their ability to flexibly respond to pressure demands in networks with different nominal pressure levels and preventing the use of gas networks for energy storage, leading to complex and costly installations.
Innovation Solution
A device capable of operating in both compression and expansion modes, connected to high and low pressure networks via bidirectional pipes with an inlet valve and non-return valve, allowing gas to be compressed from low to high pressure and expanded from high to low pressure, with a control unit determining the operational direction based on network pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate compression stations and expansion stations are installed to handle different pressure levels, then the gas network can maintain pressure balance, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a bidirectional apparatus that can function as both a compressor and an expander. This single device replaces the traditional need for separate compression stations and expansion stations, reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to handle pressure balance in both directions between high and low pressure networks
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of compression and expansion into a single integrated apparatus. By combining these previously separate functions into one device, the system achieves simpler installation and control while still providing comprehensive pressure management for the gas network
2Device complexity
If unidirectional compression or expansion devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot flexibly respond to varying pressure demands in both networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the bidirectional apparatus can switch between compression and expansion modes based on real-time pressure demands in the high and low pressure networks. The control system dynamically determines the operational direction, allowing the device to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining a relatively simple physical structure
Solution Approach 2:
The bidirectional apparatus serves multiple functions - it can compress gas from low to high pressure when the high pressure network needs gas, and expand gas from high to low pressure when the low pressure network needs gas. This multi-functionality provides flexibility without requiring separate specialized devices for each function
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional unidirectional devices are used, then installation is simpler, but energy storage capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional apparatus enables the gas network to function as an energy storage system by allowing gas to be compressed into the network when electrical energy is available and expanded when energy is needed. This single device supports both the traditional pressure management function and the new energy storage function, maintaining installation simplicity while adding versatility
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible response to pressure demands in dual-network systems, facilitates energy storage by using the gas network for electrical energy storage, and simplifies installations by eliminating the need for separate compressors and expanders, reducing costs and energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
the apparatus, when it is driven in one direction, compresses gas from the low pressure network to the high pressure network, and when it is driven in the other direction, expands gas from the high pressure network to the low pressure network
Implementation Method 2
a non-return valve is provided in parallel to this inlet valve, whereby this non-return valve allows a gas flow from the low pressure pipe to the high pressure pipe
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
Device for compressing and expanding gases, characterised in that the device (1) comprises an apparatus (2) that can be driven in two directions, whereby in one direction the apparatus (2) operates to compress a gas and in the other direction the apparatus (2) operates to expand a gas.