Surge Avoidance For Compressor Systems.

Abstract

This tutorial explains the surge phenomenon as well as the precursors of surge and the damage that surge can cause to the equipment. Then, methods to keep the compressor system from surge, i.e., modern surge control systems, are discussed. This includes the necessary instruments, algorithms used, as well as the piping layout required. Sizing considerations for valves and other system components, in particular methods to correctly estimate allowable upstream pipe volumes, are described. Surge control systems for single body and multibody or multisection compressors will be explained and attention will be given to the integration of the surge control system with other aspects of the station and unit control. In a look forward, new methods for surge detection and detection of system changes prior to surge are covered.