742 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics

EXAMPLES
1. A reciprocating air compressor has cylinder with 24 cm bore and 36 cm stroke. Compressor
admits air at 1 bar, 17°C and compresses it up to 6 bar. Compressor runs at 120 rpm. Considering
compressor to be single acting and single stage determine mean effective pressure and the horse power
required to run compressor when it compresses following the isothermal process and polytropic process
with index of 1.3. Also find isothermal efficiency when compression is of polytropic and adiabatic type.
Solution:
P2
Compression ratio = =6=r
P1
From cylinder dimensions the stroke volume
p
= ´ (0.24)2 ´ (0.36)
4
= 0.01628 m3
Volume of air compressed per minute = 0.01628 ´ 120
= 1.954 m3/min
Let us neglect clearance volume.
Work done in isothermal process
Wiso = P1 V1 ln r
Mean effective pressure in isothermal process
p1V1 ln r
mepiso = = P1 ln r
V1
= 1 ´ 102 ´ ln 6 = 179.18 kPa
Work done in polytropic process with index n = 1.3, i.e. PV 1.3 = C
LMF P I n-1
OP
MNGH P JK
n n
-1
PQ
2
Wpoly = P V
n-1 1 1 1

Mean effective pressure in polytropic process,

F n I PV L
H n - 1 K MF P I - 1OP
1 1
n -1

MNH P K
n

PQ
2
meppoly =
V1 1

F n I P LMF P I - 1OP
n -1

H n - 1 K MNH P K
n

PQ
2
meppoly = 1
1

F 1.3 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10 L(6) - 1O
= G
1. 3 - 1

H 1.3 - 1 K NM QP
2
1.3

meppoly = 221.89 kPa

Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 743

Fig. 16.29 p-V representation

g LMF P I g -1
g
OP
MNH P K -1
PQ
2
Work done in adiabatic process, Wadibatic = P V
g -1 1 1 1

Wadiabatic
Mean effective pressure in adiabatic process, mepadiabatic =
V1

g LMF P I g -1
g
OP
MNH P K PQ
mepadiabatic = P 2
-1
g -1 1
1

FG 1.4 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10 L(6) 1. 4 - 1
OP
=
H 1.4 - 1 K NM 2
1. 4 -1
Q
mepadiabatic = 233.98 kPa
Horse power required for isothermal process,
mepiso ´ Volume per minute
HPiso =
0.7457 ´ 60
(As 1 hp = 0.7457 kW)
179.18 ´ 1.954
=
0.7457 ´ 60
HPiso = 7.825 hp
Horse power required for polytropic process,
meppoly ´ Volume per minute
HPpoly =
0.7457 ´ 60
221.89 ´ 1.954
=
0.7457 ´ 60
HPpoly = 9.69 hp
744 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
Horse power required for adiabatic process,
mepadiabatic ´ Volume per minute
HPadiabatic =
0.7457 ´ 60
233.98 ´ 1.954
=
0.7457 ´ 60
= 10.22 hp
Isothermal process power required
Isothermal efficiency =
Actual power required
HPiso 7.825
Isothermal efficiencypoly = = = 0.8075 or 80.75%
HPpoly 9.69
HPadiabatic 7.825
Isothermal efficiencyadiabatic = = = 0.7657 or 76.57%
HPpoly 10.22

mep: 179.18 kPa for isothermal, 221.89 kPa for polytropic process
HP required: 7.825 HP for isothermal, 9.69 HP for polytropic
Isothermal efficiency: 80.75% for polytropic process, 76.57% for adiabatic process Ans.
2. A single stage single acting reciprocating air compressor has air entering at 1 bar, 20°C and
compression occurs following polytropic process with index 1.2 upto the delivery pressure of 12 bar. The
compressor runs at the speed of 240 rpm and has L/D ratio of 1.8. The compressor has mechanical
efficiency of 0.88. Determine the isothermal efficiency and cylinder dimensions. Also find out the rating
of drive required to run the compressor which admits 1 m3 of air perminute.
Solution:
Using perfect gas equation the mass of air delivered per minute can be obtained as,
P1V1
m=
RT1

=
b1 ´ 10 ´ 1g2

( 0.287 ´ 293)
= 1.189 kg/min
Compression process follows PV1.2 = constt.
Temperature at the end of compression;

FPI
n -1

HPK
2 n
T2 = T 1
1

= 293 FH IK
1. 2 - 1
12 1. 2
T2
1
T2 = 443.33 K
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 745

FG n IJ ´ mR (T – T )
Work required during compression process, W =
H n -1K 2 1

F 1.2 I ´ 1.189 ´ 0.287 (443.33 – 293)

=
H 1.2 - 1 K
307.79
W = 307.79 kJ/min = hp
60 ´ 0.7457
W = 6.88 hp
6.88
Capacity of drive required to run compressor = = 7.82 hp
0.88
Isothermal work required for same compression,
FP I
HPK
2
Wiso = m RT1 ln
1

= (1.189 ´ 0.287 ´ 293) × ln FH 12 IK

1
Wiso = 248.45 kJ/min
Isothermal work 248.45
Isothermal efficiency = = = 0.8072
Actual work 307.79
1
Volume of air entering per cycle = = 4.167 ´ 10–3 m3/cycle
240
p 2
Volume of cylinder = 4.167 ´ 10–3 = D L
4
p
= 4.167 ´ 10–3 = ´ D2 ´ 1.8D
4
Bore, D = 0.1434 m or 14.34 cm
Stroke length L = 1.8 ´ D = 1.8 ´ 14.34 = 25.812 cm

Isothermal efficiency = 80.72 %

Cylinder dimension, D = 14.34 cm
L = 25.812 cm
Rating of drive = 7.82 hp Ans.
3. A reciprocating compressor of single stage, double acting type delivers
20 m3/min when measured at free air condition of 1 bar, 27°C. The compressor has compression ratio of
7 and the conditions at the end of suction are 0.97 bar, 35°C. Compressor runs at 240 rpm with clear-
ance volume of 5% of swept volume. The L/D ratio is 1.2. Determine the volumetric efficiency and
dimensions of cylinder and isothermal efficiency taking the index of compression and expansion as
1.25. Also show the cycle on P-V diagram.
Solution:
P2
P1 = 0.97 bar, T1 = 273 + 35 = 308 K, = 7, N = 240 rpm
P1
746 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
V3 = 0.05 Vs, Vs = V1 – V3, V1 = 1.05 Vs
For free air condition of 1 bar, 27°C the mass of air delivered,
PV 1 ´ 10 2 ´ 20
m= =
RT 0.287 ´ 300
m = 23.23 kg/min

Fig. 16.30 P-V representation

For compression process 1–2, PV 1.25 = Constant

FP I
1. 25 - 1

HPK
1. 25
T2 = T1 ´ 2

1
= 308 ´ (7)0.2
T2 = 454.54 K
For expansion process, 3–4, PV 1.25 = Constant

FPI
1

HP K
1. 25
V4 = V3 ´ 3

4
V4 = 0.05 Vs (7)1/1.25
V4 = 0.273 Vs
V1 – V4 = 1.05 Vs – 0.237 Vs = 0.813 Vs
Volume of air corresponding to the suction conditions can be obtained using the volume of free air
delivered
0.97 ´ 300 0.97 ´ 300
= ´ (V1 – V4) = ´ 0.813 Vs
1 ´ 308 1 ´ 308
= 0.768 Vs
0.768 Vs
Volumetric efficiency = = 0.768 or 76.8%
Vs

Volumetric efficiency = 76.8% Ans.

Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 747
In order to find out the dimension of cylinder the volume of air sucked in one cycle. Volume of air
20
sucked in a cycle = = 0.0208 m3/cycle.
2 ´ 240
Volume per cycle = Swept volume
p 2 p
0.0208 = D ×L= D 2 × (1.2 D)
4 4
Þ D = 0.2805 m or 28.05 cm
L = 33.66 cm

Bore = 28.05 cm
Stroke = 33.66 cm Ans.
Work required in reciprocating compressor
n
W= mR (T2 – T1)
n -1
FG 1.25 IJ ´ 23.23 ´ 0.287 (454.54 – 308)
W=
H 1.25 - 1 K
= 4884.92 kJ/min
4884.92
= , {as 1 hp = 0.7457 kW]
60 ´ 0.7457
W = 109.18 hp

FP I
HPK
2
Work required when compression is isothermal, Wiso = m RT1 ln
1

= 23.23 ´ 0.287 ´ 308 ln (7)

= 3995.81 kJ/min
3995.81
=
60 ´ 0.7457
Wiso = 89.31 hp
Wiso 89.31
Isothermal efficiency = = = 0.8133 or 81.33%
W 109.81

Isothermal efficiency = 81.33% Ans.

4. A reciprocating compressor of single stage and double acting type is running at 200 rpm with
mechanical efficiency of 85%. Air flows into compressor at the rate of 5 m3/min measured at atmos-
pheric condition of 1.02 bar, 27°C. Compressor has compressed air leaving at 8 bar with compression
following polytropic process with index of 1.3. Compressor has clearance volume of 5% of stroke
volume. During suction of air from atmosphere into compressor its temperature rises by 10°C. There
occurs pressure loss of 0.03 bar during suction and pressure loss of 0.05 bar during discharge passage
through valves. Determine the dimensions of cylinder, volumetric efficiency and power input required to
drive the compressor if stroke to bore ratio is 1.5.
748 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
Solution:
Considering the losses at suction and discharge, the actual pressure at suction and delivery shall be
as under.
Atmospheric pressure, Pa = 1.02 bar, Ta = 273 + 27 = 300 K, Va = 5 m3/min
Pressure at suction, P1 = 1.02 – 0.03 = 0.99 bar
T1 = 300 + 10 = 310 K
Pressure at delivery, P2 = 8 + 0.05 = 8.05 bar
Volume corresponding to suction condition of P1, T1,
Pa × T1 × Va 1.02 ´ 310 ´ 5
V1 = = = 5.32 m3/min
P1 × Ta 0.99 ´ 300
Therefore, work required for compression,
LMF P I n-1
OP
MNH P K
n n
-1
PQ
2
W= P V
n -1 1 1 1

F 1.3 IJ ´ 0.99 ´ 10 ´ 5.32 LMF 8.05 I

= G
2 0 .3
OP
H 1.3 - 1 K MNH 0.99 K
1.3
-1
60 PQ
= 23.66 kW or 31.73 hp
31.73
Power input required = = 37.33 hp
0.85

Power input = 37.33 hp Ans.

P1Ta LM P F I OP
1

H K PQ
n
Volumetric efficiency, hvol =
Pa T1 MN
1+ C - C 2
P1

0.99 ´ 300 LM1 + 0.05 - 0.05F 8.05 I 1

OP
C = 0.05, so hvol =
H 0.99 K
1.3
Here,
1.02 ´ 310 MN PQ
= 0.7508 or 75.08%
5
Stroke volume per cycle = = 0.0125 m3/cycle
2 ´ 200
0.0125
Actual stroke volume taking care of volumetric efficiency =
0.7508
= 0.0167 m3/cycle
p 2
Stroke volume = D L = 0.0167
4
p 2
D ´ 1.5D = 0.0167
4
D = 0.2420 m or 24.20 cm
Stroke L = 1.5 D = 36.3 cm
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 749

Cylinder dimensions = bore of 24.20 cm, stroke of 36.3 cm. Ans.

Volumetric efficiency = 75.08%
5. In a reciprocating air compressor the air is compressed at the rate of 4 m3/min at 1 bar, 27°C up
to the pressure of 8 bar following index of compression as 1.2. The compression occurs in two stages with
intercooling at optimum intercooler pressure and perfect intercooling. Compare the work input required
if the same compression occurs in single stage. Also compare the work input if same compression occurs
in two stages with imperfect intercooling up to 30°C at the optimum intercooling pressure. Consider
Cp = 1.0032 kJ/kg × K and R = 0.287 kJ/kg × K.
Solution:
Mass of air compressed per minute;
1 ´ 10 2 ´ 4
m= = 4.65 kg/min
0.287 ´ 300

Fig. 16.31 P-V diagram

Different types of compression are shown on P–V diagram
For single stage compression from 1 bar to 8 bar, process 1–2–3, PV 1.2 = Constt.
LMF P I n -1
OP
MNH P K
n n
-1
PQ
3
Work input, WI = PV
n-1 1 1 1

F 1.2 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10
= G
L8 O
´ 4 M FH IK
- 1P
1. 2 - 1

H 1.2 - 1 K MN 1
PQ
2 1.2

F 994.113 IJ = 22.22 hp
W = 994.113 kJ/min or G
I H 60 ´ 0.7457 K
Optimum intercooling pressure = 8 ´ 1 = 2.83 bar
For two stage compression with perfect intercooling;
LMF P I n -1
OP
MNH P K
n 2n
= 2´ -1
PQ
3
Work input, WII, I/C PV
n -1 1 1 1
750 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics

F 1.2 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10
= 2´G
L8
´ 4 ´ M FH IK
1. 2 - 1
OP
H 1.2 - 1 K MN 1 PQ
2.4
2 -1

WII, I/C = 908.19 kJ/min or 20.29 hp

When there is two stage compression with imperfect intercooling:
Intercooler pressure, P2 = 2.83 bar, T2¢ = 273 + 30 = 303 K
P1V1 T2 ¢
Volume of air at inlet of HP cylinder, V2¢ = ´
T1 P2
1 ´ 4 ´ 303
V2¢ = = 1.43 m3/min
300 ´ 2.83
Hence, work required for two stage compression,
W¢II,I/C = W¢HP + W¢LP
L n R|F P I n -1
U|O L n R|F P I U|O n -1

= M - 1V P + M - 1VP
MN n - 1 P V S|TH P K P V¢ S
|WPQ MN n - 1 |TH P K
n n

|WPQ
2 3
1 1 2 2
1 2

= LM F
1.2 I
´ 4 {( 2.83) - 1}OP
(1. 2 - 1)

HN 1.2 - 1 K ´ 1 ´ 10 Q
2
W¢II,I/C 1. 2

LF 1.2 I ´ 2.83 ´ 10 ´ 1.43 ´ R|F 8 I 1. 2 - 1

U|OP
+ MG
MNH 1.2 - 1 JK S|H 2.83 K -1V|P
2 1.2

T WQ
= [454.3] + [459.2] = 913.5 kJ/min or 20.42 hp
% saving in work when compression occur with perfect intercooling as compared to single stage
compression
FG W - W IJ
H W K
I II , I / C
= 100 ´
I
= 8.69% Ans.
% excess work to be done when two stage compression occurs with imperfect intercooling as
compared to two stage compression with perfect intercooling:
F W¢ - WII , I / C I
= 100 ´ GH II , I / C

W ¢ II , I / C JK
= 0.636% Ans.
6. A reciprocating air compressor has four stage compression with 2 m3/min of air being delivered
at 150 bar when initial pressure and temperature are 1 bar, 27°C. Compression occur polytropically
following polytropic index of 1.25 in four stages with perfect intercooling between stages. For the
optimum intercooling conditions determine the intermediate pressures and the work required for driving
compressor.
Solution:
Here there is four stage compression with perfect intercooling at optimum intercooling conditions.
So optimum stage pressure ratio = (150 )1/ 4 = 3.499 » 3.5
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 751
Intermediate pressure shall be as follows:
Between Ist and IInd stage = 3.5 bar
Between IInd and IIIrd stage = 12.25 bar
Between IIIrd and IVth stage = 42.87 bar

Intermediate pressure: 3.5 bar, 12.25 bar, 42.87 bar Ans.

Since it is perfect intercooling so temperature at inlet of each stage will be
300 k.

FPI
n -1

HPK
n
So temperature at the end of fourth stage, T = T1 ´ 2
1

= 300 ´ ( 3.5) H
F 1. 25 - 1 IK
1. 25
T = 385.42 K
PV 150 ´ 10 2 ´ 2
Mass of air, kg/min, m = = = 271.21 kg/min
RT 0.287 ´ 385.42
Work required for driving compressor,

F n IJ m RT LMF P I - 1OP ´ 4
W= G
n-1

H n -1K MNH P K
n

PQ
2
1
1

=G
F 1.25 IJ ´ 271.21 ´ 0.287 ´ 300 L(3.5) - 1O ´ 4
(1.25 - 1)

H 1.25 - 1 K NM QP 1. 25

= 132978.04 kJ/min or 2972.11 hp F =

132978.04 I
H 60 ´ 0.7457 K
. Work input = 2972.11 hp Ans.
7. A two stage reciprocating compressor has air entering at 1 bar, 17°C into LP compressor and
leaving HP stage at 16 bar. An intercooler working at 4 bar pressure is provided between the HP and LP
stages. The compression process follows the process given by PV1.3 = constant. The bore diameters of
HP and LP cylinder are 6 cm and 12 cm respectively while stroke lengths are equal. For perfect intercooling
determine the work done in compressing per unit mass of air. Also state whether the intercooler pressure
will rise, fall or no change if the volumetric efficiency is taken as 0.90 for LP cylinder. Neglect clear-
ance volumes.
Solution:
For perfect intercooling the amount of work required shall be;
LMF P I n -1
FPI
n -1
OP
MNGH P JK +G J
n´m n n

HP K -2
PQ
2 3
W= RT1
n -1 1 2

LM 1. 3 - 1
OP
1.3 ´ 1
e j
(1.3 - 1) 16
´ 0.287 ´ (273 + 17) ( 4 ) 1. 3 + 1.3
-2
=
1.3 - 1 MN4 PQ
752 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
= 271.94 kJ/kg

. Work = 271.94 kJ/kg Ans.

The ratio of volumes handled by HP and LP stages. Using the perfect intercooling.

Fig. 16.32 Two stage compression on P-V diagram

State at inlet of LP cylinder = P1 V1
State at inlet of HP cylinder = P2 V2¢
Since state 2¢ lies on isothermal compression process line so, P1 V1 = P2 V2¢ or,
V1
=
P2
= FH 4 IK = 4
V2¢ P1 1

Volume at inlet to LP
= 4
Volume at inlet to HP
From given cylinder dimensions, for given bore diameters and common stroke length,
Effective volume of LP cylinder
Ratio of effective cylinder volumes =
Effective volume of HP cylinder
p 2
0.90 ´ D ×L
= 4 LP
p 2
D ×L
4 HP
0 .9 ´ ( 0.12 ) 2
= = 3.6
( 0.06 ) 2
Theoretically, the volume ratio is 4 while considering volumetric efficiency the ratio of effective
cylinder volumes comes out to be 3.6 which is less than the theoretical volume ratio. Therefore, it can
be concluded that less amount of air is given into HP cylinder than its’ capacity. Thus, the HP cylinder
would inhale volume equal to its’ capacity and since it has larger capacity than volume available so the
pressure of intercooler shall drop.
8. In a two stage reciprocating air compressor running at 200 rpm the air is admitted at 1 bar, 17°C
and discharged at 25 bar. At low pressure stage suction conditions the rate of air flow is 4 kg/minute.
The low pressure cylinder and high pressure cylinders have clearance volumes of 4% and 5% of respec-
tive cylinder stroke volumes. The index for compression and expansion processes in two stages are same
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 753
as 1.25. Considering an optimum and perfect intercooling in between two stages determine the power
required, isothermal efficiency, free air delivered, heat transferred in each cylinder and the cylinder
volumes.
Solution:
25
For the optimum intercooling the pressure ratio in each stage = =5
1

Fig. 16.33 P-V representation

P2 P
= 6 =5
P1 P5
Perfect intercooling indicates, T1 = T5 = 273 + 17 = 290 K

FG P IJ
n -1
n

HPK
2
T2 = T1 = 400.12 K
1

FG P IJ
n -1
n

HPK
6
T6 = T5 = 400.12 K
5
Actual compression work requirement,
W = WHP + WLP

F n IJ m RT LMFG P IJ - 1OP
n-1

= 2G
H n -1K
n

MNH P K PQ
2
1
1

= 2´G
F 1.25 IJ ´ 4 ´ 0.287 ´ 290 L(5) (1.25 - 1)
OP
H 1.25 - 1 K MN 1. 25 -1
Q
W = 1264.19 kJ/min or 28.25 hp
Work requirement if the process is isothermal compression,
FG P IJ = 4 ´ 0.287 ´ 290 ln (25)
HPK
6
Wiso = m RT1 ln
1
Wiso = 1071.63 kJ/min
754 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
Wiso
Isothermal efficiency = = 0.8477 or 84.77%
W
mRT1 4 ´ 0.287 ´ 290
Free air delivered = = = 3.33 m3/min
P1 1 ´ 10 2
Heat transferred in HP cylinder = Heat transferred in LP cylinder = Q
(Due to optimum and perfect intercooling)

Q= FH W IK – m C (T – T )
p 2 1
2

= FH
1264.19 I
2 K – 4 ´ 1.0032 ´ (400.12 – 290)
Q = 190.21 kJ/min

PT LM P F I OP
1

H K PQ
n

Pa × T1 MN
Volumetric efficiency, hvol = 1 a 1 + C - C 2
P1

Here the ambient conditions and suction conditions are same so expression gets modified as,

FP I
1

= 1+C–CG J
n
hvol
HPK
2

1
Volumetric efficiency of HP,

FG P IJ
1
n
hvol,
HP K
6
HP = 1 + CHP – CHP
5
CHP = 0.04
= 1 + 0.04 – 0.04 (5)1/1.25
hvol, HP = 0.895 or 89.5%
Volumetric efficiency of LP,

FG P IJ
1
n
hvol,
HPK
2
LP = 1 + CLP – CLP
1
CLP = 0.05
= 1 + 0.05 – 0.05 (5)1/1.25 = 0.8688 or 86.88%
Free air delivery
Stroke volume of HP cylinder =
Pressure ratio ´ speed ´ h vol, HP

3.33
Vs, = = 3.721 ´ 10–3 m3
HP
5 ´ 200 ´ 0.895
Clearance volume, Vc, HP = 0.05 ´ 3.721 ´ 10–3 = 1.861 ´ 10–4 m3
Total HP cylinder volume, VHP = Vs, HP + Vc, HP = 3.907 ´ 10–3 m3 ;
Vc, HP = Clearance volume of HP
Free air delivery 3.33
Stroke volume of LP cylinder = =
Speed ´ h vol, LP 200 ´ 0.8688
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 755
Vs, LP = 0.01916 m3
Clearance volume, Vc, LP = 0.04 ´ Vs, LP = 7.664 ´ 10–4 m3
Total LP cylinder volume, VLP = Vs, LP + Vc, LP = 0.019926 m3
Power required = 28.25 hp, Ans.
Isothermal efficiency = 84.77%
Free air delivered = 3.33 m3/min,
Heat transfer in HP cylinder = 190.21 kJ/min
Heat transferred in LP cylinder = 190.21 kJ/min,
HP cylinder volume = 3.907 ´ 10–3 m3
LP cylinder volume = 0.019926 m3
9. A two stage double acting reciprocating air compressor running at 200 rpm has air entering at
1 bar, 25°C. The low pressure stage discharges air at optimum intercooling pressure into intercooler after
which it enters at 2.9 bar, 25°C into high pressure stage. Compressed air leaves HP stage at 9 bar. The
LP cylinder and HP cylinder have same stroke lengths and equal clearance volumes of 5% of respective
cylinder swept volumes. Bore of LP cylinder is 30 cm and stroke is 40 cm. Index of compression for both
stages may be taken as 1.2. Determine,
(i) the heat rejected in intercooler,
(ii) the bore of HP cylinder,
(iii) the hp required to drive the HP cylinder.
Solution:
Optimum intercooling pressure = 9 = 3 bar
LP stage pressure ratio = HP stage pressure ratio = 3
From the given dimensions of LP cylinder, the volume of LP cylinder, in m3/min
p
VLP = ´ (0.30)2 ´ (0.40) ´ 200 ´ 2
4
VLP = 11.31 m3/min
Volumetric efficiency of LP compressor, here ambient and suction conditions are same,

FPI
= 1+C–CG J
1
n F 3 I
= 1 + 0.05 – G 0.05 FH IK J
1

hvol, LP
HPK
1. 2

H 1 K
2

1
hvol, LP = 0.9251 or 92.51%

Fig. 16.34 P-V diagram

756 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
Volume of air inhaled in LP stage = VLP ´ hvol, LP
= 11.31 ´ 0.9251
= 10.46 m3/min
P1V1
Mass of air per minute, m=
RT1
1 ´ 10 2 ´ 10.46
= = 12.23 kg/min
0.287 ´ 298
Temperature after compression in LP stage,

FPI
n -1

= T ´G J
n

HPK
2
T2 1
1

= 298 ´ FH IK
1. 2 - 1
3 1. 2
1
T2 = 357.88 K
Volume of air going into HP cylinder
mRT5
V5 =
P5
After intercooling, T5 = 298 K, P5 = 2.9 bar,
12.23 ´ 0.287 ´ 298
V5 =
2.9 ´ 10 2
V5 = 3.61 m3/min
Since the clearance volume fraction and pressure ratio for both HP and LP stages are same so the
volumetric efficiency of HP stage referred to LP stage suction condition shall be same
hvol, HP = hvol, LP = 0.9251
V5 3.61
Hence, the volume of HP cylinder/min = = = 3.902 m3/min
h vol,HP 0.9251
Let bore of HP cylinder be DHP,
p
3.902 = ´ (DHP)2 ´ 0.40 ´ 2 ´ 200
4
DHP = 0.1762 m or 17.62 cm
Heat rejected in intercooler, Q = mCp (T2 – T5)
= 12.23 ´ 1.0032 ´ (357.88 – 298)
= 734.68 kJ/min

FG IJ
n -1
FH 9 IK
1. 2 - 1
T6 P6 n
H K
1.2
In HP stage, = Þ T6 = 298 ´
T5 P5 2.9
T6 = 359.91 K
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 757
FG n IJ mR (T
Work input required for HP stage, WHP =
H n -1K 6 – T5)

FG 1.2 IJ ´ 12.23 ´ 0.287 × (359.9 – 298)

=
H 1.2 - 1 K
WHP = 1303.62 kJ/min
or WHP = 29.14 hp
Heat rejected in intercooler = 734.68 kJ/min Ans.
Bore of HP cylinder = 17.62 cm
Horse power required to drive HP stage = 29.14 hp
10. During an experiment on reciprocating air compressor the following observations are being
taken;
Barometer reading = 75.6 cm Hg, Manometer reading across orifice = 13 cm Hg.
Atmospheric temperature = 25°C. Diameter of orifice = 15 mm.
Coefficient of discharge across the orifice = 0.65
Take density of Hg = 0.0135951 kg/cm3
Determine the volume of free air handled by compressor in m3/min.
Solution:
p
Cross-sectional area of orifice, A= ´ (15 ´ 10–3)2 = 1.77 ´ 10–4 m2
4
Atmospheric pressure = 75.6 ´ 0.0135951 ´ 9.81 ´ 104 ´ 10–3
= 100.83 kPa
Specific volume of air per kg at atmospheric conditions,
RT 1 ´ 0.287 ´ 298
v= = = 0.848 m3/kg
P 100.83
Density of air = 1 = 1.18 kg/m3
v
Pressure difference across orifice = 13 ´ 0.0135951 ´ 9.81 ´ 104 ´ 10–3
= 17.34 kPa
Height of air column for pressure difference across orifice.
ra ´ ha ´ g = 17.34 ´ 103
Put, ra = 1.18 kg/m3 Þ ha = 1497.95 m
Free air delivery = Cd × A × 2gha
= 0.65 ´ 1.77 ´ 10–4 2 ´ 9.81 ´ 1497.95
= 0.01972 m3/s or 1.183 m3/min

. Free air delivery = 1.183 m3/min Ans.

11. During a trial on single acting single stage compression the following observations are made;
Dimensions of cylinder: 10 cm bore and 8 cm stroke.
Speed of rotation: 500 rpm.
758 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
Barometer reading: 76 cm Hg
Atmospheric temperature: 27°C
Delivery air temperature = 130°C
Free air delivery = 15 m3/hr
Spring balance of dynamometer type (electric motor) reading: 10 kg
Radius of arm of spring balance: 30 cm
Take mechanical efficiency = 0.90.
Determine the volumetric efficiency, shaft output per m3 of free air per minute.
Solution:
Free air delivery = 15 m3/hr = 0.25 m3/min
p
Volume of cylinder = ´ (0.10)2 ´ (0.08) = 6.28 ´ 10–4 m3
4
(15 60)
Volumetric efficiency =
b
6.28 ´ 10 - 4 ´ 500 g
= 0.7962 or 79.62% Ans.

2p NT
Shaft output =
60
2 ´ p ´ 500 ´ 10 ´ 9.81 ´ 0.30 ´ 10 - 3
Shaft output =
60
= 15.41 kJ/s or 20.66 hp
20.66
Shaft output per m3 of free air per minute =
0.25
= 82.64 hp per m3 of free air per minute. Ans.
12. Determine the minimum number of stages required in an air compressor which admits air at 1
bar, 27°C and delivers at 180 bar. The maximum discharge temperature at any stage is limited to 150°C.
Consider the index for polytropic compression as 1.25 and perfect and optimum intercooling in between
the stages. Neglect the effect of clearance.
Solution:
Let there be ‘i’ number of stages. So the overall pressure ratio considering inlet state as Pa and Ta
and delivery state pressure as Pi.
Pi P P P P
= 1 × 2 × 3 × ⋅⋅⋅× i
Pa Pa P1 P2 Pi − 1

When perfect and optimum intercooling is considered then pressure ratio in each stage will be
same.
P1 P P P
= 2 = 3 =¼= i =r
Pa P1 P2 Pi - 1

Pi
= (r)i, for any stage, say second stage,
Pa
T1 = 273 + 27 = 300 K
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 759
and T2 = 273 + 150 = 423 K

FG T IJ FG T IJ
n in
P2 n -1 P n -1

HT K , i = (r)i =
HT K
2 2
and =
P1 1 Pa 1

FH 180 IK = FH 423 IK
i ´ 1. 25
1. 25 - 1
, Taking log for solving,
1 300

ln 180 = FH 1.25i IK ln FH 423 IK

0.25 300
Upon solving, i = 3.022 » say 3 stages

3 stages Ans.
13. In a triple stage reciprocating compressor of single acting type the air enters at 1 bar, 27°C.
The compressor has low pressure cylinder with bore of 30 cm and stroke of 20 cm. Clearance volume of
LP cylinder is 4% of the swept volume. The final discharge from compressor takes place at 20 bar. The
expansion and compression index may be taken uniformly as 1.25 for all the stages. The intercooling
between the stages may be considered to be at optimum intercooling pressure and perfect intercooling.
Determine, the interstage pressures, effective swept volume of low pressure cylinder, temperature and
volume of air delivered in each stroke and the work done per kg of air.
Solution:
Here P1 = 1 bar, T1 = 300 K, C = 0.04, P10 = 20 bar, n = 1.25, See Fig. 16.35
For optimum and perfect intercooling,

FH 20 IK
1
P2 P P
= 6 = 10 = 3
= 2.714
P1 P2 P6 1
P2 = 2.714 bar, T5 = T1 = 300 K
P6 = 7.366 bar T9 = T1 = 300 K
Volumetric efficiency of LP stage,

FP I
1

= 1+C–CG J
1. 25
hvol, LP
HPK
2

1
= 1 + 0.04 – 0.04 (2.714)1/1.25
= 0.9511 or 95.11%
p 2 p
LP swept volume, V1 – V3 = D L= ´ (0.30)2 ´ 0.20 = 0.01414 m3
4 4
Effective swept volume of LP cylinder, V1 – V4 = hvol, LP ´ (V1 – V3)
V1 – V4 = 0.9511 ´ 0.01414 = 0.01345 m3

F P IJ
1. 25 - 1

´G
1. 25 (1.25 - 1)

HPK = 300 ´ ( 2.714 )

10
Temperature of air delivered, T10 = T9 1. 25
6
= 366.31 K
760 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics

Fig. 16.35 P-V representation

For the compression process of air as perfect gas;
a
P1 ´ V1 - V4 f= a
P10 ´ V10 - V11 f
T1 T10

V10 – V11 =
aV - V f ´ T
1 4 10 ´ P1
T1 ´ P10
0.01345 ´ 366.31 ´ 1 ´ 10 2
=
300 ´ 20 ´ 10 2
Volume of air delivered = V10 – V11 = 8.2115 ´ 10–4 m3
Total Work done per kg air,
R| n F F P I I U|
1. 25 - 1

W= 3 ´ S RT G G J - 1J V
1.25

|T n - 1 GH H P K JK |W
2
1
1

= 3 ´ RSF IK UV
1.25 I
HT 1.25 - 1 K ´ 0.287 ´ 300 ´ FH (2.714)
(1. 25 - 1)
1.25 -1
W
= 285.44 kJ/kg of air

Intermediate pressure = 2.714 bar, 7.366 bar Ans.

Effective swept volume of LP cylinder = 0.01345 m3
Temperature of air delivered = 366.31 K
Volume of air delivered = 8.2115 ´ 10–4 m3
Work done = 285.44 kJ/kg of air
14. A two stage reciprocating air compressor has air being admitted at 1 bar, 27°C and delivered
at 30 bar, 150°C with interstage pressure of 6 bar and intercooling up to 35°C. Compressor delivers at
the rate of 2 kg/s. Clearance volumes of LP and HP cylinders are 5% and 7% of stroke volume respec-
tively. The index of compression and expansion are same throughout. Determine the swept volume of
both cylinders in m3/min, amount of cooling required in intercooler and total power required. Also
estimate the amount of cooling required in each cylinder.
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 761
Solution:
Given: P1 = 1 bar, T1 = 300 K, P2 = 6 bar, P6 = 30 bar,
T6 = 273 + 150 = 423 K, T5 = 273 + 35 = 308 K, CLP = 0.05, CHP = 0.07, m = 2 kg/s

Fig. 16.36 P-V representation

For process 5–6, P2 = P5

FG T IJ
n
P6 n -1

HT K
6
=
P5 5

FH 30 IK = FH 423 IK
n
n -1
Þ
6 308
Taking log of both sides,
n
Þ ln (5) = ln (1.3734)
n -1
Upon solving we get,
n = 1.245
Volumetric efficiency of LP cylinder,

FP I
1

= 1+C –C G J
1. 245
hvol, LP
HPK
2
LP LP
1

= 1 + 0.05 – 0.05 FH IK
1
6 1. 245
1
= 0.8391 or 83.91%
Volumetric efficiency of HP cylinder,

FPI
1

= 1+C –C G J
1. 245
hvol, HP
HPK
6
HP HP
5

= 1 + 0.07 – 0.07 F
H IK
1
30 1. 245
6
hvol, HP = 0.815 or 81.50%
762 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
For suction of LP cylinder
P1 × (V1 – V4) = mRT1
2 ´ 0.287 ´ 300
(V1 – V4) = = 1.722 m3/s or 103.32 m3/min
1 ´ 10 2
V1 - V4
hvol, LP = = 0.8391 Þ (V1 – V3)
V1 - V3
103.32
= = 123.13 m3/min
0.8391

Swept volume of LP cylinder = 123.13 m3/min Ans.

For HP cylinder, P2 ´ (V5 – V8) = m RT5
mRT5
Þ (V5 – V8) =
P2
2 ´ 0.287 ´ 308
= = 0.2946 m3/s or 17.676 m3/min
6 ´ 10 2
V5 - V8 17.676
hvol, HP = Þ (V6 – V7) = = 21.69 m3/min
V6 - V7 0.815

Swept volume of HP cylinder = 21.69 m3/min Ans.

For compression in LP stage,
n −1
P  n
T2 = T1  2 
 P1 

= 300 ´ FH IK
1. 245 - 1
6 1. 245
1
T2 = 426.83 K
Cooling required in intercooler, QI/C = m ´ Cp ´ (T2 – T5)
= 2 ´ 1.0032 ´ (426.83 – 308)
QI/C = 238.42 kJ/s

Heat picked in intercooler = 238.42 kW Ans.

Work input required = WLP + WHP

LMF P I n-1
O n LMF P I n -1
OP
- 1P +
MNGH P JK MNGH P JK
n n n

PQ n - 1 m RT -1
PQ
2 6
= m RT1
n -1 1
5
5

L R|F P I n-1
U| R|F P I n -1
U|O
mR M T S - 1V + T SG J - 1V P
MN T|H P K W| |TH P K
n n n

|WPQ
2 6
=
n -1
1 5
1 5
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 763

FG 1.245 IJ ´ 2 ´ 0.287 LM300R|SF 6 I 1. 245 - 1

U| R| 30 I
- 1V + 308 SFH
1.245 - 1
U|OP
=
H 1.245 - 1 K MN |TH 1 K
1.245

|W |T 6 K
1. 245
-1V|P
WQ
= 704.71 kJ/s

Total work required = 704.71 kW Ans.

Heat transferred in LP cylinder = Amount of cooling required in LP cylinder
F g - n I ´ C ´ (T – T )
QLP = m
H n -1 K v 2 1

= 2´G
F 1.4 - 1.245 IJ ´ 0.72 ´ (426.83 – 300)
H 1.245 - 1 K
= 115.55 kJ/s

. Amount of cooling required in LP cylinder = 115.55 kW Ans.

Heat transferred in HP cylinder = Amount of cooling required in HP cylinder

F g - n I ´ C ´ (T – T )
QHP = m
H n -1 K v 6 5

= 2´G
F 1.4 - 1.245 IJ ´ 0.72 ´ (423 – 308)
H 1.245 - 1 K
= 104.77 kJ/s

Amount of cooling required in HP cylinder = 104.77 kW Ans.

15. A roots blower handles free air of 0.5 m3/s at 1 bar and 27°C and delivers air at pressure of
2 bar. Determine indicated power required to drive compressor and isentropic efficiency.
Solution:
Indicated power required = (P2 – P1) ´ V1
Wroots = (2 – 1) ´ 102 ´ 0.5 = 50 kJ/s
Wroots = 50 kW or 67.05 hp
Indicated power when isentropic compression occurs,
R|F P I U|
( g - 1)

Wisentropic =
g
´ P1 V1 S|H P K
2 g
V| -1
g -1
T 1
W
FG 1.4 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10 R| 2
´ 0.5 SFH IK
1. 4 - 1
U|
=
H 1.4 - 1 K
2
|T 1
1. 4
-1V|
W
= 38.33 kW or 51.4 hp

Fig. 16.37
764 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics

Wisentropic 38.33
Isentropic efficiency of roots blower = = = 0.7666 or 76.66%
Wroots 50

Indicated power of roots blower = 67.05 hp, Ans.

Isentropic efficiency = 76.66%
16. A vaned compressor handles free air of 0.6 m3/s at 1 bar and compresses up to 2.3 bar. There
occurs 30% reduction in volume before the back flow occurs. Determine the indicated power required
and isentropic efficiency.
Solution:
Here on P–V diagram the state 2 indicates the point at which delivery occurs. While 2¢ is the point
up to which air is compressed inside. V2 = 0.7 ´ V1
P2 F V I = FG V IJ
g 1. 4

H V K H 0.7 V K
1 1
=
P1 2 1

= 1 ´ FH
1 I 1. 4

0. 7 K
Þ P2 = 1.65 bar

Fig. 16.38 P-V diagram

Indicated power required for vaned compressor

F g I P V R|SF P I - 1U|V + (P
g -1
g

H g - 1K |TH P K
– P2) ´ V2
2

|W
Wvane = 1 1 2¢
1

=G
F 1.4 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10 ´ 0.6 {(1.65) (1. 4 - 1)
}
H 1.4 - 1 K - 1 + (2.3 – 1.65) ´ 102 ´ (0.7 ´ 0.6)
2
1. 4

= 59.60 kJ/s or 79.925 hp

Power requirement when compression occurs isentropically,
R|F P I g -1
U|
Wisentropic =
g
P V S|H P K
2¢ g
-1 V|
g -1 1 1
T 1
W
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 765

F 1.4 IJ ´ 1 ´ 10
=G
R| 2.3 I
´ 0.6 SFH
1. 4 - 1
U|
H 1.4 - 1 K
2
|T 1 K
1. 4
-1V|
W
= 56.42 kJ/s or 75.66 hp
Wisentropic 75.66
Isentropic efficiency of Vane compressor = =
Wvane 79.925
= 0.9466 or 94.66%

Indicated power required = 79.925 hp, isentropic efficiency = 94.66% Ans.

17. A centrifugal compressor delivers free air of 18 kg/min. Air is sucked at static states of 1 bar,
27°C with inlet velocity of 50 m/s. The total head pressure ratio is 4 and isentropic efficiency of
compressor is 0.75. The mechanical efficiency of motor attached to it is 0.90. Determine total head
temperature of air at exit of compressor and brake power required to drive compressor.
Solution:
V12
Stagnation temperature at inlet, T01= T1 +
2Cp

( 50 ) 2
T01 = 300 + = 301.25 K
2 ´ 1.0032 ´ 10 3
Isentropic efficiency of compressor,
T02 ¢ - T01
hisen =
T02 - T01
For process 1–2,

FG P IJ
g -1
T02 ¢ g
HP K
02
=
T01 01
(1. 4 - 1 )
Þ T02¢ = T01 ´ ( 4 ) 1. 4

T02¢ = 301.25 ´ ( 4 ) 0 . 4/1. 4 = 447.66 K

Fig. 16.39
Substituting temperature values in expression of isentropic efficiency,
766 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics

T02 =
aT
02 ¢ - T01 f +T
h isen 01

( 447.66 - 301.25)
= + 301.25
0.75
T02 = 496.46 K
Total head temperature at exit = 496.46 K Ans.

Brake power of drive required =

m ´ C p ´ T02 - T01 a f
h mech
18 ´ 1.0032 ´ ( 496.46 - 301.25)
=
60 ´ 0.9
= 65.28 kW or 87.54 hp

Brake power required = 87.54 hp Ans.

18. A double-acting single cylinder reciprocating air compressor has a piston displacement of
0.015 m3 per revolution, operates at 500 r.p.m. and has a 5% clearance. The air is received at 1 bar and
delivered at 6 bar. The compression and expansion are polytropic with n = 1.3. Determine,
(i) the volumetric efficiency
(ii) the power required
(iii) the heat transferred and its direction, during compression if inlet temperature of air is 20°C.
[U.P.S.C., 1998]
Solution:
V = 0.015 m3 per revolution, N = 500 r.p.m., C = 5% or 0.05, n = 1.3, P1 = 1 bar, P2 = 6 bar,
T1 = 20°C

FP I
1

=1+C–CG J
n
Volumetric efficiency, hvol
HPK
2

= 1 + 0.05 – 0.05 FH IK
1
6 1.3
1
= 0.8516 or 85.16%

Ans. Volumetric efficiency = 85.16%

LMF P I n-1
OP
MNGH P JK
n n
-1
PQ
2
Power required = P1V1
n-1 1

Here swept volume in cylinder = Vs = V ´ 2N

= 0.015 ´ 2 ´ 500
Vs = 15 m3/min
Actual air inhaled = V1 = 15 ´ 0.85
V1 = 12.75 m3/min
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 767
P1V1 1 ´ 10 2 ´ 12.75
Mass of air entering, m = = = 15.16 kg/min.
RT1 0.287 ´ 293

(1.3) L6
´ 12.75 M F I
1.3 - 1
OP
´1´
MNH 1 K PQ
1.3
Power required = 102 -1
(1.3 - 1)
= 2829.21 kJ/min

Ans. Power required = 2829.21 kJ/min

Heat transferred during compression, (this is heat rejected), for a polytropic process
F g - n I (T
Q = m Cv ×
H n -1 K 2 – T1)

During compression process

FG P IJ
n -1
T2 n

HPK
2
=
T1 1

FH 6 IK
1.3 - 1

T2 = 298 ´ 1. 3
1
T2 = 450.59 K
Substituting in heat transferred Q,
FG 1.4 - 1.3 IJ (450.59 – 293)
Q = 15.16 ´ 0.718 ´
H 1.3 - 1 K
Q = 571.78 kJ/min

Heat rejected during compression = 571.78 kJ/min Ans.

-:-4+15-
16.1 Classify the compressors.
16.2 Discuss the applications of compressed air to highlight the significance of compressors.
16.3 Describe the working of single stage reciprocating compressor.
16.4 Discuss the indicator diagram for reciprocating compressor. Also describe the factors responsible
for deviation of hypothetical indicator diagram to actual indicator diagram.
16.5 Obtain the volumetric efficiency of single stage reciprocating compressor with clearance volume
and without clearance volume.
16.6 Discuss the effects of clearance upon the performance of reciprocating compressor.
16.7 Define isothermal efficiency. Also discuss its significance.
16.8 What do you understand by multistage compression? What are its’ merits over single stage
compression?
16.9 Show that the volumetric efficiency with respect to free air delivery is given by,
 1

P1T a   P n
hvol. = 1+ C − C  2  
Pa ⋅ T1   P1  

 
where all the terms of expression have their usual meanings.
768 ________________________________________________________ Applied Thermodynamics
16.10 Discuss the significance of intercooling upon the performance of multi-stage compression.
16.11 What is the optimum pressure ratio for perfect intercooling in between two stages of compression?
The inlet and outlet pressures may be taken as P1 and P3.
16.12 Discuss the control of reciprocating air compressor.
16.13 Discuss the working of positive displacement rotary compressors.
16.14 Describe the working of centrifugal compressors.
16.15 What do you understand by surging and choking phenomenon?
16.16 Explain the stalling and its effect on the compressor performance.
16.17 Describe the characteristics of centrifugal compressor.
16.18 Compare the axial flow compressor with centrifugal compressors.
16.19 Show that the heat rejected in each stage of a reciprocating compressor with perfect intercooling
is given by,

  γ − n 
Q =  C p + Cv    (T2 – T1)
  n − 1 
16.20 Write short notes on the following:
(i) Free air delivery
(ii) Volumetric efficiency
(iii) Axial flow compressors
(iv) Air flow rate measurement in reciprocating compressors.
16.21 A single stage single cylinder reciprocating compressor has 60 m3/hr air entering at 1.013 bar, 15°C
and air leaves at 7 bar. Compression follows polytropic process with index of 1.35. Considering
negligible clearance determine mass of air delivered per minute, delivery temperature, indicated
power and isothermal efficiency. [1.225 kg/min, 202.37°C, 4.23 kW, 77.1%]
16.22 A reciprocating compressor of single stage and double acting type has free air delivered at 14
m3/min measured at 1.013 bar, 288 K. Pressure and temperature at suction are 0.95 bar and 305
K. The cylinder has clearance volume of 5% of swept volume. The air is delivered at pressure of
7 bar and expansion and compression follow the common index of 1.3. Determine the indicated
power required and volumetric efficiency with respect to free air delivery. [63.55 kW, 72.4%]
3
16.23 A single stage double acting reciprocating compressor delivers 14 m /min measured at suction
states of 1 bar and 20°C. Compressor runs at 300 rpm and air is delivered after compression with
compression ratio of 7. Compressor has clearance volume of 5% of swept volume and compression
follows polytropic process with index 1.3. Determine the swept volume of cylinder and indicated
power in hp. [0.028 m3, 76.86 hp]
3
16.24 A single stage single acting reciprocating air compressor handles 0.5 m /min of free air measured
at 1 bar. Compressor delivers air at 6.5 bar while running at 450 rpm. The volumetric efficiency
is 0.75, isothermal efficiency is 0.76 and mechanical efficiency is 0.80. Determine indicated mean
effective pressure and power required to drive the compressor. [0.185 MPa, 3.44 hp]
16.25 A single stage single acting reciprocating air compressor compresses air by a ratio of 7. The
polytropic index of both compression and expansion is 1.35. The clearance volume is 6.2% of
cylinder volume. For volumetric efficiency of 0.8 and stroke to bore ratio of 1.3 determine the
dimensions of cylinder. [14.67 cm and 19.08 cm]
16.26 A single stage single acting reciprocating air compressor runs with air entering at 1 bar and
leaving at 7 bar following PV1.3 = constant. Free air delivery is 5.6 m3/minute and mean piston
1
speed is 150 m/min. Take stroke to bore ratio of 1.3 and clearance volume to be th of swept
15
Reciprocating and Rotary Compressor ______________________________________________ 769
volume per stroke. The suction pressure and temperature are equal to atmospheric air pressure
and temperature. Determine volumetric efficiency, speed of rotation, stroke and bore. Take mean
piston speed = 2 ´ stroke ´ rpm. [76.88%, 164 rpm, 45.7 cm, 35.1 cm]
16.27 A reciprocating compressor of single acting type has air entering at 1.013 bar, 15°C and leaving
at 8 bar. Compressor is driven by electric motor of 30.84 hp and the mechanical efficiency is 0.87.
The clearance volume is 7% of swept volume and the bore is equal to stroke. The compression
and expansion follow PV1.3 = constant. Determine (i) free air delivered in m3/min, (ii) volumetric
efficiency, and (iii) cylinder dimensions. [4.47 m3/min, 72.68%, L = D = 29.7 cm]
16.28 A reciprocating compressor has two stages with inlet air going into LP stage at 1 bar, 16°C and
at the rate of 12 m3/min. Air is finally delivered at 7 bar and there is perfect intercooling at optimum
pressure between the stages. The index for compression is 1.25 and compressor runs at 600 rpm.
Neglecting clearance volume determine intermediate pressure, total volume of each cylinder and
total work required. [2.645 bar, 0.02 m3, 0.0075 m3, 57.6 hp]
16.29 A two stage reciprocating air compressor delivers 4.2 kg of free air per min at 1.01325 bar and 15°C.
The suction conditions are 0.95 bar, 22°C. Compressor delivers air at 13 bar. Compression
throughout occurs following PV1.25 = C. There is optimum and perfect intercooling between the
two stages. Mechanical efficiency is 0.75. Neglecting clearance volume determine
(i) the heat transfer in intercooler per second.
(ii) the capacity of electric motor.
(iii) the % saving in work if two stage intercooling is compared with single stage compressor
between same limits. [7.6 kJ/s, 44.65 hp, 13%]
16.30 A single acting reciprocating air compressor has two stages with the optimum and perfect
intercooling in between. Compressor has air sucked at 1 bar and at the rate of 2.4 m3/min when
measured at 1.013 bar, 288 K. Compressor delivers air at 70 bar. Temperature at the end of suction
stroke is 32°C. The compression and expansion follows polytropic process PV1.25 = C uniformly.
The clearance volume is 3% of swept volume in each HP and LP cylinder. Compressor runs at
750 rpm. If the mechanical efficiency is 0.85 then determine the power of drive required, swept
volumes of each cylinder, % saving in power as compared to single stage compression within
limits. [35.8 hp, 3963 cm3, 473 cm3, 20.89%]