A compressor is a device used to compress ammonia gas into a liquid. The compressed gas can then be used as a refrigerant or for other industrial purposes. There are three main types of compressors: rotary screw, reciprocating, and centrifugal, but there are many different others available on the market today. Each type has its own unique set of features and benefits. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of ammonia compressors and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Injection Sealed Reciprocating Compressor (ISRC)
An Injection Sealed Reciprocating Compressor (ISRC) is a type of compressor that uses an injection seal to prevent leakage of the refrigerant gas. The injection seal is a small amount of oil that is injected into the compressor’s piston head just before it reaches the top of its stroke. This oil seals the clearance between the piston and cylinder wall, preventing any refrigerant gas from escaping.
Hermetic Scroll Compressor
The hermetic scroll is a type of ammonia compressor that uses two scrolls to compress the ammonia gas. The scrolls are interlocked and rotate together, which causes the gas to be compressed. This type of compressor is often used in refrigeration systems because it is reliable and has a low noise level.
Rotary Vane Compressors
Rotary vanes use a rotor with radial vanes to move gas from the inlet to the outlet. The rotor is mounted on a shaft that passes through the housing. The housing has two side plates that form chambers on either side of the rotor. As the rotor turns, it draws gas into the inlet and pushes it out of the outlet. Rotary vane units are used for low-pressure applications such as air conditioning and refrigeration.
Piston Compressors
Pistons are the most common type of ammonia compressor. They are used in a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, petrochemical, and drugs or pharmaceuticals. Piston units use pistons to move the refrigerant gas through the compression process. This type of compressor is typically less expensive than other types of compressors and is easy to maintain.
Rotary Screw Compressors
Rotary screw compressors use two meshing screws to compress the gas. They are the most common type of compressor and can achieve high compression ratios. Reciprocating units use pistons to move the gas through the compressor. They are typically less efficient than rotary screw compressors but can handle higher pressures. Centrifugal compressors use blades on a rotating disk to force the gas through the compressor. They are typically very efficient but cannot handle high pressures.
Semi-Hermetic Compressors
Semi-hermetic compressors are a type of ammonia compressor that uses a combination of mechanical seals and gaskets to create a seal between the compressor sections and the crankcase. This type of compressor is less likely to leak than compressors, making it more reliable. Additionally, semi-hermetic units are easier to maintain and have longer lifespans than most other types.
Liquid Ring Vacuum Pumps
Liquid ring vacuum pumps are a type of rotary pump that uses centrifugal force to create a vacuum. The pump consists of a rotor with blades attached to it and housing around the rotor. The housing is filled with liquid, and as the rotor spins, the blades throw the liquid outward. This creates a vacuum in the center of the pump. Liquid ring vacuum pumps are used to suck fluid up through a tube, which makes them ideal for pumping liquids and slurries. They can also be used to compress gases, although they are not as efficient at this as other types of compressors.
Overall, compressors are an important piece of equipment for many industrial and commercial settings. They are used to compress ammonia gas into a liquid form, which is then used in a variety of applications. There are a number of different types of units, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. It is important to choose the right one for the job to ensure efficient and safe operation.
