Compressor Energy Efficiency Analysis Method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Analyzing and optimizing energy use in multiple compressor systems is challenging due to the complexity of systems comprising different compressors with varying optimal pressures and lack of detailed design information from manufacturers, leading to inefficient operation and incorrect dimensioning.
Innovation Solution
A method that collects and plots data on specific energy consumption, constructs ideal specific energy consumption curves, and identifies measurement errors or system faults, enabling visualization and optimization of compressor combinations and operating modes to achieve best performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple compressors with different optimal pressures are operated in parallel, then the system can handle varying flow demands, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to lack of coordination and optimal operating point displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating points of individual compressors based on real-time flow demands and system conditions. The control method continuously monitors and recalculates optimal operating parameters, allowing compressors to adapt their performance characteristics dynamically rather than operating at fixed points, thereby maintaining energy efficiency across varying demand conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes key operating parameters (pressure, flow rate, power consumption) of individual compressors to achieve optimal system performance. By adjusting these parameters based on calculated ideal operating points and actual demand, the system resolves the contradiction between handling variable flow demands and maintaining energy efficiency.
2Use of energy by moving object
If compressor operating points are displaced to optimize total system performance, then energy efficiency improves, but system complexity increases due to coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control method implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors actual operating conditions, compares them with ideal operating points, and adjusts compressor parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control automates the optimization process, reducing the perceived complexity by providing clear guidance for operating point displacement without requiring complex manual coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-optimization by automatically calculating and adjusting compressor operating points based on measured system conditions. The control algorithm independently determines the optimal configuration and implements adjustments without external intervention, thereby managing system complexity through autonomous operation rather than requiring complex external control infrastructure.
3Ease of manufacture
If detailed design information from manufacturers is unavailable, then system analysis becomes difficult, but manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure reliable operation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces reliance on manufacturer design data with actual operational measurements and empirical analysis. By substituting theoretical design information with real-world performance data collected during operation, the system achieves accurate analysis without requiring detailed manufacturing specifications, thereby easing the analysis process while maintaining reliability through measurement-based optimization.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a method for analyzing, monitoring, optimizing and/or comparing energy used for producing a unit of mass or volume of compressed gas (Specific Energy Consumption) in relation to a common output flow in a multiple compressor system, said method comprising: - collecting measured data of common output flow and energy/power use and calculating the specific energy consumption in the multiple compressor system, - identifying which data points of measured specific energy consumption that affiliate to a certain compressor or compressor combination in the multiple compressor system and/or operating mode(s) of the multiple compressor system; and - plotting the data points of measured specific energy consumption that affiliate to a certain compressor or compressor combination in the multiple compressor system and/or operating mode of the multiple compressor system and marking affiliation of said data points to the certain compressor or compressor combination and/or operating mode.