A centrifugal compressor is a type of dynamic compressor, or turbocompressor, and is often used in industries where continuous performance and reliability are of the utmost importance.
In modern configurations of centrifugal air compressors, ultra-high speed electric motors are used to drive the rotating impeller, which draws in the air. The use of an electric motor results in a compact compressor without a gearbox and an associated oil-lubrication system. Without an oil-lubrication system, the compressor is appropriate for applications that require 100 percent oil-free air.
Industries that rely on oil-free, high-speed centrifugal compressors include industrial manufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals and the automotive industry, among others. In addition to oil-free air considerations, the following design features affect energy efficiency and reliability in oil-free, high-speed drive centrifugal compressors:
Three-stage compression results in 4-9% more air flow per unit of power, making it the most efficient design for centrifugal compressors.
Titanium impellers have superior fatigue properties resulting in faster load-unload cycles. When transition time between load and unload is reduced, power consumption is also reduced.
A permanent magnet motor reduces energy losses and cooling requirements and maintains consistent motor efficiency at full load and partial load.
Optimally-sized coolers depressurize the compressor’s internal air volume between compression stages; this ensures minimal loss of compressed air.
Stable internal cooling temperatures extend the life of the electronic power components such as the frequency inverter and the motor, and increases drive efficiency.
