Single Lube Pump for Turbo-Compressor Train Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional turbo-compressor trains require dual lube pumps for different types of bearings, leading to increased weight, maintenance costs, larger footprint, and higher lube oil consumption, which complicates the system and increases complexity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a single lube pump using synthetic oil for all rolling bearings within the turbo-compressor train, eliminating hydro-dynamic bearings and minimizing system complexity, weight, and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dual lube pumps are used for different types of bearings, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single lube pump that supplies lubrication to both rolling bearings and hydrodynamic bearings through a unified lubrication system. The pump is designed to handle the lubrication needs of different bearing types simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate pumps for each bearing type while maintaining reliable lubrication for all components.
2Reliability
If dual lube pumps are used for different types of bearings, then lubrication coverage is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of multiple lube pumps into a single unified pump system. By combining the lubrication function for both rolling and hydrodynamic bearings into one pump, the overall system weight is reduced while maintaining complete lubrication coverage for all bearing types through a integrated lubrication distribution network.
3Force
If hydro-dynamic bearings are used, then load capacity is improved, but lube oil consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the lubrication parameters for hydrodynamic bearings within the unified lubrication system. By adjusting oil pressure, flow rate, and distribution characteristics specifically for hydrodynamic bearing requirements, the system achieves adequate load capacity support while minimizing excessive lube oil consumption through precise parameter control.
4Manufacturing precision
If dual lube pumps are used for different types of bearings, then lubrication precision is improved, but maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single multi-functional lube pump that serves both rolling and hydrodynamic bearings. This unified approach reduces maintenance costs by eliminating the need to maintain multiple separate pump systems, while the pump is designed with adjustable capabilities to provide precise lubrication control for different bearing types through a single maintenanceable unit.
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 reduces weight, maintenance costs, and energy usage by up to 250 kW, while enhancing reliability and simplifying the system by using synthetic oil for all components, thus improving overall efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
In order to promote the rotational motion of these components and to minimize the friction, various bearing units are provided in the train
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
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AI summary
A turbo-compressor train (100) and a method for assembling a turbo-compressor train. The train includes a gas turbine engine (102, 104, 106) configured to transform thermal energy into mechanical energy; a centrifugal compressor (112) having a shaft (110) connected to a shaft (108) of the gas turbine engine; and a single lube pump (116) configured to provide synthetic oil to the gas turbine engine and the centrifugal compressor. The gas turbine engine, the centrifugal compressor and the single lube pump each has only rolling bearings.