Amplitude-Resonance Characteristics and Optimum Operating Modes of Reciprocating Compressors

An effective means for intensifying the action of reciprocating compressors involves the use of resonant vibration of gas pressure in suction systems. Such systems represent a combination of a suction line, a suction valve and a cylinder serving as variable volume acoustic capacitance. By upgrading the suction system in this way, it is possible to achieve an increase in compressor capacity up to 20% without capital expenditure. The use of resonant oscillations of gas pressure is especially effective in the suction systems of compressors having first-stage double-acting cylinders. An analysis of the amplituderesonance characteristics of a VP-20/8M compressor showed that its maximum performance occurs at two resonance length values of the suction pipeline, corresponding to the resonances of pressure fluctuations in the second harmonic. Two variants of indicator diagrams for compressors operating under such resonance oscillation conditions are considered. The filling of the cylinder with air in the resonance zone continues with the reverse movement of the piston. The super-resonance zone appears to be the most economical in terms of specific power. It is shown that the best characteristics are achieved when using straight-flow valves.