Compressor Inlet Air Conditioning via Dehumidifier and Cooler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial compressor systems face inefficiencies in removing water and controlling temperature upstream of the compressor, leading to suboptimal performance and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A compressor system with a control system that removes water and transfers heat from air prior to compression using a dehumidifier, oil cooler, and regenerator, ensuring the air is dry and at a suitable temperature for efficient compression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If water removal and temperature control are not performed upstream of the compressor, then the compressor system structure remains simple, but water precipitation occurs and thermodynamic efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing water removal and temperature control measures upstream of the compressor, before the air enters the compression stage. The dehumidifier and cooler are positioned in the inlet air path to pre-condition the air, preventing water precipitation during compression and improving thermodynamic efficiency without compromising system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary devices including a dehumidifier, cooler, and heat exchanger that act as mediators between the ambient air and the compressor. These intermediary components condition the air by removing moisture and controlling temperature, thereby preventing water precipitation and improving compression efficiency while maintaining system reliability
2Loss of energy
If water and temperature control components are added upstream of the compressor, then thermodynamic efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into integrated components. The dehumidifier and cooler are combined with the inlet air path, and heat exchangers are integrated into the existing air handling system. This merging approach reduces the number of separate components while achieving water removal and temperature control to improve thermodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the inlet air conditioning system to serve multiple functions: the dehumidifier removes moisture, the cooler controls temperature, and the heat exchanger recovers heat from the compression process. This multi-functionality allows the system to improve thermodynamic efficiency while minimizing the addition of separate components
3Productivity
If air is not conditioned prior to compression, then the system operates simpler, but compressor performance deteriorates due to water precipitation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by conditioning the air upstream of the compressor through water removal and temperature control. The dehumidifier and cooler prepare the air before compression, preventing water precipitation that would otherwise reduce compressor performance and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors monitor air conditions and system performance, and the control system adjusts the dehumidifier and cooler operation accordingly. This feedback control ensures optimal air conditioning to maximize compressor performance while maintaining system efficiency
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
This solution enhances thermodynamic efficiency by preventing water precipitation and maintaining optimal temperature, thereby improving compressor performance and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a dehumidifier operable for removing water from the air upstream of the compressor
Implementation Method 2
a cooler operable for cooling the air upstream of the compressor by transferring heat from the air to a heat transfer medium
Implementation Method 3
a compressor operable for compressing the air
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a compressor system operable for compressing a working fluid such as air. A conditioner is positioned upstream of the compressor to reduce the humidity and may in certain forms control a temperature of the working fluid entering the compressor. An aftercooler and an oil cooler is positioned downstream of the compressor. A first heat exchange system may direct water from a source through the conditioner to the aftercooler and oil cooler. An oil heat exchange circuit directs oil from the compressor to the oil cooler and then to a regenerator prior to reentry into the compressor. A control system is operable for controlling portions of compressor system to provide inlet air to the compressor at a desired temperature and humidity.