Centrifugal Compressor Surge Prediction via Outlet Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surge detection methods for centrifugal compressors are complex, time-ineffective, and prone to delays, leading to potential damage due to their inability to predict imminent surge events effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves obtaining highest outlet pressure values through performance tests, measuring coolant flow rate and inlet guide vane opening percentage, calculating an outlet pressure value using a specific equation, and comparing it to highest corresponding values to predict imminent surge, thereby providing a basis for preparation and prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a surge detection method using single variable measurement and complicated logical determination processes is employed, then surge detection capability is achieved, but the system complexity increases and time delay occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential parameters (coolant flow rate and inlet guide vane opening percentage) needed for surge prediction, eliminating the need for complex multi-variable analysis and logical determination processes. This extraction approach maintains surge detection capability while significantly simplifying the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by calculating the outlet pressure value in advance using a simplified equation before surge actually occurs. By comparing this pre-calculated value with the highest outlet pressure value from performance tests, the system predicts imminent surge conditions, providing early warning without the time delay of complex detection methods.
2Measurement precision
If complicated logical determination processes are used to avoid false judgment, then measurement accuracy improves, but the time consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from analyzing multiple variables with complex logical processes to using a direct mathematical relationship between coolant flow rate, inlet guide vane opening percentage, and outlet pressure. This parameter transformation enables accurate surge prediction through simple calculation and comparison, eliminating time-consuming complex determination processes while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If surge detection is performed after surge occurrence, then surge can be identified, but damage to the compressor has already occurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by calculating the outlet pressure value using the equation with coolant flow rate and inlet guide vane opening percentage before surge occurs. By comparing this pre-calculated value with the highest outlet pressure value obtained from performance tests, the system identifies imminent surge conditions in advance, providing sufficient lead time for preventive action and avoiding compressor damage.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for predicting surge in a compressor is provided, which is applicable to a cooling apparatus equipped with a centrifugal compressor. A set of highest outlet pressure values is obtained by a performance test performed on the centrifugal compressor. A coolant flow rate value and an opening percentage value of inlet guide vanes of the centrifugal compressor are measured. An outlet pressure value of the centrifugal compressor is calculated with an equation using the measured coolant flow rate value and the measured opening percentage value. The outlet pressure value is compared with one of the highest outlet pressure values corresponding to the measured opening percentage value, and if the outlet pressure value is larger than or equal to the highest corresponding outlet pressure value, it confirms imminent surge in the centrifugal compressor, so as to provide a basis of preparation for surge elimination.