Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
(OP)
Hi,
Commercially available reciprocating compressors (multistage) are usually used for flow rates upto 1000CFM and similary for multistage centrifugal compressors the usual limit is around 10,000 CFM - see attachment in PDF.
Can anyone help me in explaining what are the usual issues with having Multistage Recips beyond 1000CFM? Are there a limitation on materials, Rod Load, power etc.
Similarly why are multistage centrifugal Compressors usually limited to around 10,000 CFM? What are the factors that limiting the flow rate.
Thanks.
Commercially available reciprocating compressors (multistage) are usually used for flow rates upto 1000CFM and similary for multistage centrifugal compressors the usual limit is around 10,000 CFM - see attachment in PDF.
Can anyone help me in explaining what are the usual issues with having Multistage Recips beyond 1000CFM? Are there a limitation on materials, Rod Load, power etc.
Similarly why are multistage centrifugal Compressors usually limited to around 10,000 CFM? What are the factors that limiting the flow rate.
Thanks.





RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
The selection of recips invloves limits with rod load, piston speed, valve losses, materials, frame torque limits, gas composition....
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
We have many four throw, four stage Ariels doing 1500 scfm to 5000 psi. We have one doing 1750 scfm. Limitations are as mentioned by dcasto.
It's possible that at the time that graph was made that was reality (also, it just says "typical"). I'm guessing that w/ advances in technology cylinders are getting more displacement relative to pressure rating these days so that you can get more flow out of your second, third, fourth... stages (and your first for that matter).
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
What is the source for the graph you attached? DCasto and DJV's numbers make a lot more sense. The 11,000 CFM single stage equates to almost a 5,500 CFM two stage or about a 3,6000 CFM three stage, and over 2,500 CFM is possible for a 4 stage (0-6,000 psig at sea level).
David
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
David
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation
Our 1st stage cylinder is 4.75" bore f/ our 1500 cfm machines. Not huge at all. Of course we feed it at 300 - 350 psig.
RE: Reciprocating Compressor / Centrifugal Compressor Flowrate Limitation