Algorithm for finding the number of required compression stages in a reciproca

In order to find the minimum power with perfect intercooling between stages, there is a theoretica
best relation between the intake pressures of succeeding stages. This is obtained by making the
compression ratio in each stage the same and assumes that the intake temperature will be the sam
in all the stages.
The equation used is based on the overall compression ratio:

where,
rS = compression ratio per stage
s = the number of stages employed
rt = the overall compression ratio (pfinal/pinitial)

For example:

Based on the above relationships, the appropriate number of compression stages is calculated by
trial-and-error, selecting a quantity of stages and subsequently calculating the discharge temperatu
corresponding to each stage. Once it is confirmed that the none of the discharge temperatures
calculated are above the maximum temperature allowable, the corresponding number of compress
stages is identified.

The maximum allowable discharge temperature in each stage is based on specific compressor
characteristics, such as cylinder lubrication, piston ring construction, type of valves employed, an
other cylinder/piston/seals construction and composition features.

Compressor manufacturers can size their design, as a rule, on this basis. However, the final mach
offered for the indicated application will be operating at compression ratios varying slightly from
those calculated by this method. The reason for this practice is that practically all compressor
manufacturers assemble their final compressor design based on existing compressor cylinders tha
they have already designed and tested as their standard inventory of acceptable cylinders for their
of compressor types offered. They do not design nor fabricate special, custom cylinders (and fram
suited only to a specific application. If they are to do this, they would have to quote a special eng
design price that place them in an un-competitive position.

The final machine operates at compression ratios varying from those calculated theoretically beca
other factors that must be taken into consideration. Each stage is calculated as a separate compres
the capacity of each stage is calculated separately from the first stage real suction volume and cor
to the actual pressure and temperature conditions existing at the higher-stage cylinder suction and
any change in the moisture or condensable content if there is condensation between stages in the
intercoolers. The theoretical power can then be calculated and the total horsepower obtained.
 ges in a reciprocating compressor

es, there is a theoretically

ained by making the
rature will be the same

ages is calculated by
he discharge temperature
arge temperatures
g number of compression

ecific compressor
f valves employed, and

wever, the final machine

varying slightly from
lly all compressor
mpressor cylinders that
ble cylinders for their line
om cylinders (and frames)
to quote a special engineering

ated theoretically because of

as a separate compressor,
uction volume and corrected
e cylinder suction and also
between stages in the
sepower obtained.