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Ultra-thin reed valves for higher energy efficiency in compressors.

Number: 1510

Author(s) : TOFIQUE M. W., LOF A., SARKAR D., MILLWARD C.

Summary

Inside a reciprocating compressor, a reed valve is a critical component that contributes to a compressor’s structural reliability, efficiency, and noise emission. Theoretically, the thinner the reed valve, the higher the efficiency and the lower the noise emission. Thinner reed valves are, however, more susceptible to premature failure at compressor load levels because for a given power output level of the compressor the stresses on thinner valves will be higher. Moreover, from a metallurgical point of view, the size (area) of potential crack initiating inclusions/defects makes major fraction of the reed valve cross-section.
Flap-X is a high strength martensitic stainless steel grade that is developed as a reed valve steel whose higher impact fatigue and bending fatigue strength, in general, allow using thinner gauges for reed valves. By testing reed valves of this steel grade in the ultra-thin gauge of 0.076 mm, we are looking to give the compressor manufacturers advantages like higher compressor efficiency and reduced noise while ensuring reliability of valve operation. Tests were conducted in a custom-built impact fatigue test system that uses compressed air pulses to induce reed valve movement and striking against the valve plate. Reliability tests were conducted by testing multiple reed valve samples to millions of load cycles that helped estimate their impact fatigue strength/life.
From our tests, the ultra-thin reed valves demonstrated efficiency gains. Moreover, the reed valves showed reasonable impact fatigue life at compressor load levels. This is believed to be due to the higher strength and smaller size of potentially crack initiating inclusions in the tested valve steel grade.

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  • Original title: Ultra-thin reed valves for higher energy efficiency in compressors.
  • Record ID : 30033627
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: 2024 Purdue Conferences. 27th International Compressor Engineering Conference at Purdue.
  • Publication date: 2024/07/18

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