Check Valves For Compressor Protection - A User's View.
Abstract
The paper summarizes experience of the results of check valve operation (and maloperation) over a number of years, concentrating on data gathered during the last three years in an olefine plant. Continuous tape recording is employed, and variables such as speed, pressures, valve position and vibration can be made available for study after a machine trip. Much concern was caused by the discovery of very rapid decelerations in the ethylene and HP process gas compressors. Careful analysis proves that reverse rotation can occur after rapid deceleration, and speeds over 4000 rpm in reverse have been detected. Observed deceleration rates are compared for typical frictional rundowns and process pressure driven rundown, with and without reverse rotation occurring. The physical details are explained by reference to the tape records. Calculation of the process energy levels and machine internals are used to show the magnitude of the driving forces and to establish limits to the processes. The concept of limiting runaway speed in reverse is introduced. Finally, recommendations are made for check valve characteristics and location to minimize the risk of problems due to inefficiency or maloperation.
Description
LecturePg. 45-52
Subject
TurbomachinesCollections
Citation
Andrews, Frank; Carrick, Harald B. (1983). Check Valves For Compressor Protection - A User's View.. Texas A&M University. Turbomachinery Laboratories. Available electronically from https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /163684.