Experimental Evaluation of the Transient Behavior of a Compressor Station During Emergency Shutdowns

Abstract

The transient behavior of compressor stations, particularly under rapidly changing conditions, is of vital interest to operators. Predicting transient behavior is an important factor in avoiding damage during events such as emergency shutdowns. A limited number of “accidental” data sets from compressor manufacturers and users are available in the public literature domain. A variety of simulations and modeling approaches have been presented over the last few years at industry conferences. The available experimental data is not of sufficient quality and resolution to properly compare predictions with analytical results or simulations available in current software packages. Necessary information about the compressor, the driver, the valves, and the geometry of the system is often missing. Currently utilized software has not been adequately validated with full-scale realistic benchmark data, as this data is not available in the public domain. Modeling procedures and results of surge control system simulations seldom contain validation data achieved through actual testing. This type of transient test data for a dynamic surge condition is often difficult to obtain. The primary objective of this work is to develop experimental transient compressor surge data on a full scale test facility, which would facilitate the verification and comparison of existing and future transient surge models. Results of the testing and model comparisons will be documented. Relevant, dimensionless parameters will be presented and validated utilizing the test data. Conclusions from the testing and recommendations for the transient analysis software will be provided.

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“…(11) and (12) respectively. In the coupled test, the turbine speed achieved the 63% of the new steady-state value in just 2.5 s, and that the dead time is about 0.4 s. While in the decoupled test, the time constant is 1.6 s and the dead time 0.1 s. System pressures Fig.…”

Single Versus Dual Recycle System Dynamics of High Pressure Ratio, Low Inertia Centrifugal Compressor Stations

“…The majority of these compression .systems employ centrifugal compressors, either single staged or multistaged, driven by either gas turbines or electric motors with/without gearboxes. These compression systems are required to not only withstand uninterrupted operation for extended periods of time but also be able to cope with flow and pressure transients associated with part-load operation, startup, and emergency shutdown (ESD) [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]. During these transients, the antisurge system may be activated and centrifugal compressors interact dynamically with system components around them, i.e., piping, fittings and equipment, drivers, as well as the associated control protocols [9,10].…”