Use of Flow conditioner on Axial Compressor inlet

[carlos81]

I’m working on the installation of a new axial compressor in an existing plant. Due to space limitations it was decided to put the inlet of the compressor in the bottom of the unit which doesn’t allow to have any straight pipe length.

One of the options is to install a flow conditioner in the suction of the compressor. The compressor manufacturer recommends installing a Mitred Vaned Elbow.

* Does anybody have experience with the design and use of this type of fitting? Is there any guidance for this?

* Does anybody can think about another solution to this problem? Inlet line comes from below ground to a 90° elbow that fits into the compressor suction.

Regards,

carlos81

 

[JJPellin]

We have a fitting of this type on the inlet to a high speed single stage overhung centrifugal compressor. It has worked very well. I have no idea if it would work as well on an axial flow machine since we have no compressors of that configuration. I have attached a sketch of the elbow we installed.

Johnny Pellin

 

[carlos81]

Hi Jhonny,

Thank you for your answer and the design provided.

Do you know if this elbow has been provided by a specialized vendor?

For the moment I have found only manufacturers of this kind of fittings but no company that design them according to the application.

Regards,
Carlos

 

[JJPellin]

Our fitting was designed by the compressor manufacturer. I am not aware of any other companies that I would recommend to do this design work.

Johnny Pellin