SURGING

The performance of a centrifugal compressor (discharge to suction pressure ratio vs. the
flow rate) for different speeds is shown in Fig. 11-87. Lines of constant efficiencies show
the maximum efficiency. Unstable operation sequence, called surging, occurs when
compressors fails to operate in the range left of the surge envelope. It is characterized by
noise and wide fluctuations of load on the compressor and the motor. The period of the
cycle is usually 2 to 5 s, depending upon the size of the installation.

STONE WALL
The operating range is defined as the range between surge and choke. Surge is when the
flow in a compressor reverses itself; this phenomenon is very destructive. Choke,
sometimes called stone wall, is the point where the compressor flow has reached a
maximum; this is accomplished by great loss in efficiency.