dc.description.abstract | This paper describes extensive measurements on high-pressure radial compressors with rated discharge pressures of more than 400
bar (5800 psi). The purpose of the measurements was to deterine m the damping behavior of the entire machines as a function of several parameters such as discharge pressure, bearing distance, labyrinth types, or configurations of anti-swirl devices. In the past, most of the rotordynamic damping measurements have been carried out by universities on test rigs specially designed
to measure labyrinth forces, which are mainly responsible for the change in damping at high pressures. Unfortunately, all these tests have been carried out at pressure levels far below the levels of industrial applications. Thus, the presented tests on complete compressors, ready for offshore applications, are certainly unique. The tests showed a generally conservative prediction of the damping. At higher pressures, a drop of the first natural frequency of the shaft was encountered. This effect could be attributed to the used labyrinth type. | en |