Process Fundamentals

Working of Air Compressor – Types – Control Techniques

In this post, we will learn the working of the air compressor, types, and their different control techniques used in industries.

Every turnaround (TA) done CO2 Absorber corroded wall thickness weld building – a perennial problem resolved.

Renewing the CO2 stripper collapsed internal trays was a recurring and expensive turnaround job since plant commissioning a decade ago.

The author root cause analyzed the near miss incident of compressor anti-surge control to resume production and surge prevention.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Compressor near ½-RPM frequency high magnitude shaft vibrations.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Malfunctioning inlet check valves caused 5-year long chaos at each stop/trip of the compressor.

[RCA] Refrigeration Compressor Turbine Not-tripping when needed Trip Throttle Valve threatened potential compressor wrecks eliminated.

Root Cause Analysis: K-602 Process Air Compressor too frequent & too lengthy overhauls Eliminated. RCA problem and solution provided.

Steam Turbine Driven centrifugal compressors K-601’s IP case discharge temperatures gradually increases & lead to plant shutdown.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Persisting K-601 steam turbine driven centrifugal compressors Discharge Head 3‑monthly leaks.