Axial Air Compressors - Maintaining Peak Efficiency.

Tutorialpg. 173-182Axial air compressors have seen increased service in various applications over the years, mainly because of the axial compressor's high operating efficiency, which can be 85 to 90 plus percent. The design of the aerodynamic components, however, makes the machine very sensitive to fouling. This can reduce operating efficiency by 10 points or more, reducing the compressor output and adding to the plant utility load. It is advantageous to monitor compressor performance on a regular basis, and to clean the machine and/or perform other maintenance when calculations indicate the need is economically justified