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Types of Compressors

The document outlines three main types of compressors: Reciprocating, Rotary, and Centrifugal, each with distinct working principles and applications. Reciprocating compressors use a piston mechanism for high pressure and low flow rates, while Rotary compressors utilize rotating elements for continuous gas flow. Centrifugal compressors operate with high-speed impellers for high flow rates and moderate pressures, suitable for large-scale applications.

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44 views3 pages

Types of Compressors

The document outlines three main types of compressors: Reciprocating, Rotary, and Centrifugal, each with distinct working principles and applications. Reciprocating compressors use a piston mechanism for high pressure and low flow rates, while Rotary compressors utilize rotating elements for continuous gas flow. Centrifugal compressors operate with high-speed impellers for high flow rates and moderate pressures, suitable for large-scale applications.

Uploaded by

ohnezalcoy24
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Ohnez Khober P.

Alcoy
CEIT-09-601A

TYPES OF COMPRESSORS

Reciprocating, Rotary, and Centrifugal Compressors


Compressors are mechanical devices used to increase the pressure of gases by reducing their
volume. They are widely used in industries such as refrigeration, HVAC, power plants, and
manufacturing. The three main types of compressors are Reciprocating, Rotary, and
Centrifugal Compressors.

1. Reciprocating Compressor
Working Principle:
● Uses a piston-cylinder mechanism to
compress gas in a reciprocating (back-
and-forth) motion.
● The piston moves down to draw gas in
(suction stroke) and moves up to
compress and discharge it (compression
stroke).

Characteristics:
● High pressure ratio
● Used in industries requiring high pressure, such as gas transmission and air
compression
● Suitable for low flow rates

Applications:
● Refrigeration and air conditioning
● Gas pipelines
● Automotive industry
2. Rotary Compressor
Working Principle:
● Uses rotating elements (screws, vanes,
or lobes) to compress gas.
● Unlike reciprocating compressors,
rotary compressors provide a
continuous flow of gas.

Types of Rotary Compressors:


● Screw Compressor – Uses
intermeshing screws to compress gas.
● Vane Compressor – Uses a rotor with sliding vanes that trap and compress gas.
● Lobe Compressor – Uses two rotating lobes to compress gas.

Characteristics:
● Compact and lightweight
● Continuous gas flow
● Lower maintenance than reciprocating compressors

Applications:
● HVAC systems
● Pneumatic tools
● Industrial machinery

3. Centrifugal
Compressor
Working Principle
● Uses high-speed impellers to accelerate gas, converting kinetic energy into pressure
energy.
● Works on the principle of dynamic compression.

Characteristics:
● Suitable for high flow rates and moderate pressures
● Efficient for continuous operation
● Used in large-scale applications

Applications:
● Power plants
● Turbochargers
● Industrial air compression

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