Transient Phenomena in Compressor Stations During Surge

Abstract

Transient phenomena are generally inherent in the operation of compressor stations: These are either fast or slow transients. A model describing the governing equation for the gas dynamics, control system, compressor and turbine shaft inertias has been developed. The effect of these inertias is manifested by an example of a compressor station operating near the surge control line. Another example deals with a station that has a cooler placed in the recycle path. This alters the rate at which the compressor shaft decelerates upon shutdown and may cause backward spinning depending on the relative magnitude of the shaft inertia with respect to the cooler volume. Backward spinning of compressor shaft has detrimental effects on dry seals and is undesirable. It was found that by keeping the recycle valve closed upon shutdown, the rate of shaft deceleration will be reduced.