Compressor Control Valves - What They Are & Why They're Important
Do you know what a compressor control valve is and how it works? If not, you’re not alone. But knowing about compressor control valves is essential if you own or work on a compressor, as they play an important role in loading and unloading cycles.
We’ll outline the basics of these valves and explain their benefits. We’ll also discuss how they work and why it’s important to have one on your compressor. Finally, we’ll provide an overview of the installation process for these valves, so that you can be sure your compressor is equipped with the proper control valve.
What is a compressor control valve?
Inlet Guide Vanes (IGV)
Compressor control valves are absolutely essential for maintaining safe working conditions, preventing over-pressurization, and regulating the pressure in air or gas systems. The control valves control the compressor’s loading and unloading cycles.
Primary control valves consist of the inlet guide vane assembly that determines how much air is drawn into the compressor and is the primary anti surge control, and the compressor discharge valve that determines how much discharge air leaves the compressor into the compressed air system.
In addition, there are two discharge control valves: the discharge check valve that prevents air from flowing backwards through the compressor; and the customer-supplied discharge block valve that isolates the compressor from the air supply during compressor shutdown. Inspect them periodically for wear and tear, and make sure they are in working order by checking for leaks and noise.
Benefits of having a compressor control valve
Compressor control valves are essential for a healthy compressed air system. They help to regulate pressures, flow and temperatures of different essential systems inside a compressor. For example, inlet guide vane assembly determines how much air is drawn into the compressor (air Compressor supply), acting as primary anti surge control, and the compressor discharge valve that determines how much discharge air leaves the compressor.
Besides these main compressor control valves, there are other control valves in the system. For example, the discharge check valve which serves a very important function of preventing any backflow of air into the compressors, safeguarding it from surge conditions.
The block valve in the discharge line ensures compressor isolation in case of shutdown and maintenance activities.Control valves in oil systems ensure proper pressure and flow for the bearings of the compressor and the motor. A control valve in the oil mist line ensures that the oil vapors are removed, and a proper vacuum is maintained inside the oil tank for safe compressor operation.
How do compressor control valves work?
Most of the control valves are controlled either electrically (electronic control valve) or pneumatically through a compressor controller using a control logic to ensure proper operation, advanced noise control as per control philosophy. Contact Turbo Airtech to learn more.
Overview of the installation of a compressor control valve
Conclusion
Compressor control valves are important components of any compressed air system. By understanding their function and installation, you can ensure that your compressed air system/air conditioning system is functioning optimally. Make sure to keep your compressor control valve in good condition by regularly checking the seals, compressor control solenoid valves, vibration, internal pressure, compressor electronic control valve and controls with the help of compressor experts.
Turbo Airtech specializes in the full service, repair, and overhaul of centrifugal compressors. In order to avoid losing time due to downtime, we always try to measure our turnaround in weeks, not months. If you would like to learn more about our services or to speak with a centrifugal compressor repair specialist.
