High-Pressure Compressor with Equal-Volume Working Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-pressure compressors are limited in compressing gases with strongly differing input pressures to the required 70 bar, as they typically achieve only a compression ratio of 1:5 in single-stage operation, restricting the introduction of natural gas into high-pressure pipelines.
Innovation Solution
A high-pressure compressor with at least three working spaces of equal volume, allowing optional switching between single-stage and multi-stage operation, where one working space can be connected in series to achieve higher compression ratios of 1:3 or 1:4, utilizing a 3-path valve for efficient operation and a cooling device with condensate separator for enhanced performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If several working spaces are connected in parallel to achieve high conveying performance, then the conveying performance is improved, but the compression ratio is limited to about 1:5
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures the connection topology of working spaces from parallel to series arrangement based on operating conditions. The patent employs switching valves to enable the compressor to operate in parallel configuration for high conveying performance or in series configuration for high compression ratio, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each working space is designed to serve multiple functions - it can operate independently in parallel mode for high flow applications, or be connected in series with other working spaces for high compression applications. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware configuration to achieve both high conveying performance and high compression ratio as needed.
2Stress or pressure
If the compression ratio is increased to compress gas to 70 bar, then the gas can be introduced into high-pressure pipelines, but the conveying performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression process is segmented into multiple stages, with each working space functioning as a separate compression stage. By dividing the overall compression task across multiple working spaces connected in series, the system achieves high output pressure (70 bar) while maintaining reasonable conveying performance, as each stage contributes incrementally to the total compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between parallel and series configurations based on the required output pressure and conveying performance. When high pressure is needed, working spaces are connected in series; when high conveying performance is prioritized, they operate in parallel, allowing optimal performance for each operating condition.
3Loss of energy
If working spaces have different volumes to optimize multi-stage compression, then compression efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All working spaces are designed with identical volume and construction, creating a homogeneous system. This simplifies the device complexity significantly, as identical components can be manufactured and maintained more easily. The patent achieves efficient multi-stage compression using equal-volume working spaces connected in series, avoiding the need for complex different-sized chambers while maintaining compression 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 configuration enables efficient compression of gases to 70 bar, achieving high conveying performance in single-stage and efficient compression in multi-stage operations, allowing introduction of gas into high-pressure pipelines, even in remote areas with limited gas line systems.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling device 10 as well as a condensate separator 11 are provided in the central gas output line 9
Data Source
AI summary
A high-pressure compressor (1) for compressing gases, which has at least two working spaces (3, 3′) and is optionally adjustable between a single-stage operating position, in which the gas to be compressed is compressed in one single stage, and a multi-stage operating position, in which at least one working space (3′) is connected in series with at least one further working space (3), wherein at least three working spaces (3, 3′) are provided which all have the same working volume.