Multistage

Compressors
Multi-stage compressor

- intake of air in the first stage gets compressed and then it is passed over a cooler
to achieve a temperature very close to ambient air

- cooled air is passed to the intermediate stage where it is again getting compressed
and heated

- this air is again passed over a cooler to achieve a temperature as close to ambient as
possible. Then this compressed air is passed to the final or the third stage of the air
compressor where it is compressed until it meets the required pressure needed

- uses several cylinders of different diameters.

Types of Multistage Compressor

1. Single acting single crank

2. Single acting double crank
3. Double acting
4. Three stage
Advantages
1.) Reduced work of compression per kg of refrigerant

2.) COP increases

3.) Wall thickness of L.P. cylinder is reduced, since it has to withstand lower
pressures. This makes compressor lighter and cheaper.

4.) Heat removal during condensation is reduced hence size of condenser is

reduced.

5.) Volumetric efficiency of compressor increases due to reduced

pressure ratio in each stage.
6.) Temperature at end of compression would be less. As a result
lubrication would be effective. Hence, compressor life increases.

7.) Leakages past the piston are reduced

8.) Operating cost is reduced

9.) It gives more uniform torque, hence size of flywheel is reduced.

Reporters:

Alfred B. Gabas
Darren Jay A. Pilapil
Cristena A. Carpentero