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Centrifugal compressors are vital components in industrial applications, but they are prone to a disruptive phenomenon known as surge, which can lead to mechanical stress and temperature increase. Surge occurrence is influenced by machine design, plant layout, and geometry. Engineers often deploy long (cold) and short (hot) recycle valves to address this issue. To ensure surge prevention, a fluid dynamic model is indispensable. In this study, a 1D Computational Fluid Dynamics (1D-CFD) model was developed using Amesim for a two-section centrifugal compressor. The main objective was to investigate the impact of various parameters on surge occurrence and compare different plant layouts to determine the most suitable solution for the specific study case. Here, the focus is on the influence of vent valves over the plant performance. To achieve this comparison, transient simulations of emergency shutdown (ESD) operations were performed. This study contributes to a better understanding of how machine design and operational factors affect surge behavior. By systematically evaluating different plant layouts, we identified the most effective strategies for preventing surge and enhancing compressor performance. This research provides valuable insights for engineers and operators striving to optimize industrial processes and improve the reliability and efficiency of centrifugal compressor systems.

Spare parts not available and hard to find? Disappeared OEMs? Process changes that require redesign and supply of machinery key components?

A new model to get more from an industrial asset

Blackstone,CST join forces. Synergy supports customers in improving the return if their assets.

CST presented a paper at the 12th Congress of the EFRC in Warsaw on an investigation made by a dedicated test plant with a two stage 800 kW compressor. The work was done to compare the therethical pulsation values calculated with its proprietary multi-physics software with experimental measurements. The research validated the software and allowed also to determine the effect on pulsations of alternative capacity control systems.

Compression Service Technology – CST and Blackstone Industrial decided to joint their capabilities to create a “unique integrated machinery service provider”. The CST’s deep design know-how combined with the Blackstone Industrial’s experience and field/shop capabilities will provide an unparalleed value to the end-users for the whole life-cycle of their assets.

Switching toward a conscious and data driven Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) has always been the Santo Graal for the maintenance of critical rotating equipment, for which typically OEMs recommend a planned and time based maintenance.

CST received a very important order for a Methane emission control system for one of the world's leading gas infrastructure operator. This new system will contribute to cut the fugitive natural gas emissions from the centrifugal compressors of a pipeline compression station, thus contributing to combat climate change.