Significance Of Compressor Technology

Compressors are massive mechanical devices that increase the pressure acting on gas and thus its volume by using either rotational force or piston movement.

FREMONT, CA: Compressors are a critical link in the value chain of energy. They also contribute to the energy transition by assisting in reducing emissions. Compressors are massive mechanical devices that increase the pressure acting on gas and thus its volume by using either rotational force or piston movement. They are critical throughout the entire energy value chain, enhancing the efficiency of numerous operations and ultimately contributing to emissions reductions.

Compressors are used to transfer energy: Since gas reserves are rarely located close to where energy is required, the gas must be delivered via pipeline or ship. Pipelines, such as those connecting Russia to western Europe or Canada to the United States, typically span thousands miles. Every 70 miles or so, compression stations are erected to compensate for natural pressure loss and 'push' the gas to the next station along the route. When pipelines are not feasible, natural gas is compressed by ten or more to chill and liquefy it before being transported on specialist ships. Once the liquefied natural gas (LNG) reaches its destination, it is regasified and piped to cities, industrial clusters, and large energy consumers.

Compressors will be critical in enabling the hydrogen revolution: Compression technologies will be essential for hydrogen's full energy potential to be realized. Compressors are designed to handle and pressurize gases—and hydrogen is no exception. Hydrogen is often generated at low pressures (20–30 bar or less) and must be compressed before transportation. This is why compressors are crucial in the compression and transportation of hydrogen. Today, most compressors used for gaseous hydrogen compression are either reciprocating positive displacement compressors or centrifugal compressors.

A reciprocating compressor operates by moving a piston back and forth with a driver's assistance. This action compresses the hydrogen by decreasing its volume. Reciprocal compressors are the most often utilized type of compressor in applications requiring a high compression ratio.

Due to the low molecular weight of hydrogen, a hydrogen centrifugal compressor must work at impeller tip speeds quicker than a natural gas compressor to obtain the same compression ratio with fewer compressors. Due to its high throughput and modest compression ratio, a centrifugal compressor is chosen for pipeline transport applications.

It is critical to note that compressors now account for up to 30 percent of the cost required to build a refueling station. Compression technologies that are safe, efficient, and dependable can assist in ensuring good hydrogen purity at the needed pressure.