In a multistage compressor, intercooling is done to ?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: October 17th, 2023
(A) maximize compressor work
(B) minimize compressor work
(C) maximize compressor temperature
(D) maximize power consumption
In a multistage compressor, intercooling is done to minimize compressor work. To understand this, first understand Multistage compression. In a single-stage reciprocating compressor, a rise in pressure ratio results in an increase in temperature, a drop in volumetric efficiency, and an increase in work input.
What is Intercooling?
- When a gas is compressed in stages with intercooling between each step, it is cooled by passing through a heat exchanger known as an intercooler.
- Ideally, each intercooler cools the gas to the original temperature T while maintaining a constant pressure during the cooling process.
- When gas needs to be compressed to extremely high pressures, multistage compression with intercooling is particularly appealing.
- The graphic below displays the P-V and T-S diagram of the compression with intercooling.
- Intercooling is evidently carried out at constant pressure and is shown as a horizontal line on the P-V diagram.
- The compressed air is cooled between cylinders if an intercooler is put between them, which lowers the final delivery temperature.
- Given that the internal energy of the air provided must have come from the input energy needed to drive the machine, this decrease in temperature results in less input work being required for a given amount of delivered air.
- A cylinder’s low-pressure ratio boosts volumetric effectiveness.
Summary:
In a multistage compressor, intercooling is done to? (A) maximize compressor work (B) minimize compressor work (C) maximize compressor temperature (D) maximize power consumption
Intercooling is used in a multistage compressor to reduce compressor work. In other words, multistage compression is effective at the same higher pressure ratio. The pressure ratio of each stage is decreased through multiple staging. As a result, the cylinder’s air leakage past the piston is likewise decreased.
