Investigation of the axial rotor thrust in centrifugal compressors

Abstract EN

This article is a study, analysis, and determine accurately the axial rotor thrust for centrifugal compressors.

Are explained the factors that affect axial rotor for carbon dioxide compressor during operating conditions.

Also, the effect of the existence of fouling with gas, results in the accumulation of fouling on the internal surfaces of the impellers leading to an increase in axial rotor thrust and reduction of the performance of the compressor.

The relationship between axial rotor thrust and fouling ratio with time is discussed after complete overhaul for the carbon dioxide compressor.

The axial rotor thrust on the carbon dioxide compressor is reduced by placing balance drum on rotor of the compressor in the opposite direction of the axial force which is suitable for all operating conditions of the compressor.

The resultant axial force didn't exceed 50 % of rated bearing load, and the analysis method is then approved to be effective.

The residual thrust load for high pressure rotor for the compressor before modification at design operating condition is equal to 13.68 % of rated bearing load, while at the high load without fouling effect for the compressor is equal to 58.47 % of rated bearing load and compressor with fouling effect is equal to 110.9 % of rated bearing load.

When using the balance drum diameter Dt =158.6686 mm, the highest value of axial thrust force is equal to 93.193 % of rated bearing load.

When using the balance drum diameter Dt =174.595 mm, the highest value of axial thrust force is equal to 41.22 % of rated bearing load.

When using the balance drum diameter Dt =186.065 mm, the highest value of axial thrust force is equal to 73.35 % of rated bearing load.