Balancing Valve Layout for Divider Block Lubrication Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Divider block systems in natural gas compressors often operate with differential pressures, leading to differential pressure short stroking (D.P.S.S.), resulting in inadequate lubrication of compressor components and premature wear and failure due to incorrect oil delivery.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable balancing valve, referred to as the 'Equalizer,' is installed in each lubrication line to equalize discharge pressures across all outlets, ensuring accurate lubricant delivery to compressor components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If balancing valves are not installed in divider block systems operating above 1000 psi, then the system structure remains simple and easier to manufacture, but differential pressure short stroking occurs resulting in inaccurate lubricant delivery and premature component wear
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the lubrication distribution into separate controllable segments by installing individual balancing valves at each outlet of the divider block. This allows independent pressure regulation for each lubrication line, ensuring accurate lubricant delivery to each compressor component despite varying pressure requirements, while maintaining modular simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The balancing valves enable adjustment of pressure parameters at each outlet of the divider block. By changing the pressure parameters individually at each lubrication point, the system achieves accurate lubricant delivery across different pressure zones (cylinder injection, packing injection, suction flushing) without compromising overall system simplicity
2Reliability
If balancing valves are installed to equalize discharge pressures, then component longevity increases and reliability improves, but the device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The balancing valves equalize the discharge pressures across all outlets of the divider block, creating equipotential pressure conditions. This ensures that each lubrication line operates at the correct pressure level, preventing differential pressure short stroking and ensuring reliable lubrication delivery to all compressor components including rings, rods, packing, and cylinders
Solution Approach 2:
The balancing valves are designed to be adjustable and self-regulating, allowing the system to automatically maintain proper pressure balance. The valves enable the system to self-correct pressure imbalances without external intervention, ensuring continuous reliable operation and extending component life through consistent proper lubrication delivery
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
The solution ensures 100% accurate oil delivery to compressor components, reducing premature wear and failure, thereby increasing the reliability and longevity of compressor components.
Implementation Method 1
An adjustable balancing valve, referred to as the 'Equalizer,' is installed in each lubrication line to equalize discharge pressures across all outlets
Data Source
AI summary
A system is described in which the outputs of a divider block are pressure balanced to prevent differential pressure short stroking of divider valve pistons. An adjustable pressure valve with inlet and outlets linear aligned that can be installed in-line with individual outlets of divider valves.