Simulation and control of surge phenomenon in centrifugal compressors

Abstract

The operating range of compressors is usually limited by an unwanted phenomenon that is called, surge. Surge not only limits compressor performance and efficiency, but it can also damage the compressor, such as breaking impellers, oscillation and increasing temperature in compressor. This paper aims to present the application of nonlinear control methods and Lyapunov theory to prevent any surge conditions, in constant speed centrifugal compressors, based on the well-known Moore-Greitzer (MG) model. The only actuator in our system is a close-coupled valve (CCV). We propose a technique for designing nonlinear controllers according Lyapunov Law to avoid surge. In this paper, two controllers are designed and are applied to Moore-Greitzer model for a centrifugal compressor and compared both of them. Simulation results show these controllers can stabilize the instabilities due to surge phenomenon and effectiveness of proposed controllers. The findings of this research may serve as systems that utilizing centrifugal compressors in power generation plants.