PS Sheet 59:043(A)

June 1995/DL

Applications GuidelineCompressor Anti-Surge Valve

Introduction
A compressor can be the most critical and expensive component of a process system. Protecting this valuable asset from damage caused by surge is the function of the anti-surge system. A critical part of this system is the anti-surge (or surge relief) valve. Assuming the compressor is operating at point A in the stable region, if the load resistance increases while the compressor speed remains constant, the operating point will move to the left. When the operating point reaches B the compressor goes into surge.

Surge Characteristics
D Fast flow reversal (measured in milliseconds)

Definition of Surge
Surge can be defined as a flow instability that occurs principally in centrifugal compressors. This phenomena takes place when the compressor cannot produce enough head to overcome the downstream resistance. Put simply, the compressor discharge pressure is less than the pressure in the downstream system. This can cause a reversal of flow through the compressor. Surge can also be caused by a lack of suction flow. Figure 1 shows a typical set of compressor curves (also known as compressor map, characteristic curves, or wheel map). The X-axis is typically flow rate, the Y-axis discharge pressure, and there are separate curves for various machine speeds. A line drawn to connect the curves at the zero points defines the surge limit line. Compressors operating to the left of this line are unstable (in surge), while operating to the right is considered stable.

D Excessive compressor vibration D Increase in flowing media temperature D Noise D May cause compressor to trip

Consequences of Surge
D Shortened compressor life D Loss of efficiency D Reduced compressor output D Mechanical damage to seals, bearings, impellers, etc.

E Fisher Controls International, Inc. 1995; All Rights Reserved Fisher, Fisher-Rosemount, and Managing The Process Better are marks owned by Fisher Controls International, Inc. or Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc.

For information, contact Fisher Controls: Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 USA Cernay 68700 France Sao Paulo 05424 Brazil Singapore 0512
Printed in U.S.A.

D102206X012

Thecontentsofthispublicationarepresentedforinformationalpurposesonly,andwhileeveryefforthasbeenmade toensure theiraccuracy, theyare notto beconstrued as warranties orguarantees, expressor implied, regarding the products or services described herein or their use or applicability. We reserve the right to modify or improve the designs or specifications of such products at any time without notice.

PS Sheet 59:043(A)
Surge Control
Surge is normally controlled by recirculating some, or all, of the compressor discharge through the anti-surge valve. Some compressor systems are designed to recycle some portion of the flow continuously. This can be an effective way of controlling the compressor, but it wastes energy. sized actuator supply connections and the use of volume booster(s) and quick exhaust valve(s). D Fail DirectionAll compressor recycle valves are required to fail open. This requires the use of the appropriate spring and diaphragm actuator or piston actuators with trip systems. D Valve CharacteristicLinear is typically preferred, but equal percentage is also used.

Anti-surge Valve Selection Criteria

D CapacityThe anti-surge valve must be able to pass the highest possible output capacity of the compressor. However, it is very common that a multiplying factor is applied to the compressor capacity figure. This multiplier can be as high as 2.2. Remember, compressor surge is a very rapid event. The surge valve not only has to stop the event, but reverse it too. D NoiseDuring a surge event the pressure drop and flow rate experienced by the valve can be high, causing excessive levels of noise. This must be considered in valve selection. However, an extreme surge event that results in the valve moving to its full travel is short (typically less than 10 seconds). If it continues much longer, the compressor will shut down for other reasons (high temperature or excessive vibration are two common reasons). Noise control throughout the entire range of travel may not be required. Through use of characterized drilled hole cages a smaller valve size may be possible. In-depth discussions with the customer are required. D SpeedAnti-surge valves are usually required to stroke very quickly (typically in the open direction only). Speeds of 2 seconds or less are typical; valves with travels up to 20 inches have been required to stroke in as little as 0.75 seconds. This requires over-

Depending on the particular application, the following are typical valves used for anti-surge. Es, EWs, EUs, FBs, V250s

100% SPEED SURGE STABLE 80% SPEED 60% SPEED FLOW

Figure 1. Characteristic Curve of a Typical Centrifugal Compressor