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Title: Centrifugal compressor controller for minimizing power consumption while avoiding surge

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5988615

For use with a variable capacity centrifugal compressor driven by an electric motor, a controller is described for adjusting the capacity of the compressor to satisfy a demand, minimize electric power consumption and avoid a surge condition. The controller consists of: a. means for sensing an operating parameter that is indicative of the capacity of the compressor; b. means for setting a selected setpoint that represents a desired value of the operating parameter; c. surge sensing means for detecting an impending surge by sensing fluctuation in the electric current supplied to the compressor motor, wherein an impending surge is detected whenever fluctuations in excess of a predetermined amplitude occur in excess of a predetermined frequency; and d. control means, responsive to the operating parameter sensing means, the setpoint setting means, and the surge sensing means, for controlling the compressor, such that its capacity is minimally above a level that would cause a surge condition yet is sufficient to maintain the operating parameter at the setpoint.

Assignee:
American Standard Inc., New York, NY
Patent Number(s):
US 4686834
OSTI ID:
5988615
Resource Relation:
Patent File Date: Filed date 9 Jun 1986
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English