3 replies to this topic

[Bal]

Hello,

 

I'm a fresh chemical engineering graduate. 

 

I started working recently and so far am doing well at my work. The topic that I don't honestly feel strong is the rotating equipment.

 

I went through the GPSA before and learnt how to size such equipment. However, I still feel week when it comes to understanding the parts of the compressors/pumps and the functionality of each part.

 

What book do you recommend to understand the "science" of these equipment?

 

Please consider the simplicity of the book when you suggest it

 

Many Thanks,

 

Bal

 

[Pilesar]

I suggest you read the instruction and operation manuals for the equipment you are using. The pump and compressor manufacturers try to explain their equipment clearly in their literature. Look up the manufacturers on the web and see what is available for download.

[Art Montemayor]

Bal:

 

You've gone to a good source for information on how to PROCESS size a piece of rotating equipment such as pumps, gas compressors, vacuum pumps, expansion turbines, steam turbine drivers, electric motors, etc., etc.  But that doesn't tell you anything about the MECHANICAL design, selection, and application of such equipment.  For that, you have to resort to studying more specific sources or text books.  The existing text books on centrifugal and positive displacement pumps are many, and you should peruse through your local technical library or other lending sources to find a text book that suits your needs in detailing the significant and important components of pumps and what part they play in the basic operation of the pump.  However, you must remember that the basic theory and thermodynamics of the pumping operation are still crucial to understanding how and why the mechanical device works in the manner it is expected to and how to control it during operation.

 

Even more crucial importance should be given to the Thermo involved when dealing with all the different types of gas blowers and compressors.  The basic theory is covered well in almost all Thermodynamic text books, but the mechanical aspects are best found in such texts as:

• COMPRESSOR HANDBOOK; Paul C. Hanlon, Editor.  McGraw-Hill Publishers
• Reciprocating Compressors - Operation & Maintenance; Heinz P. Block and John J. Hoefner.
• Turboexpanders and Process Applications; Heinz P. Block and Soares
• Compressors - Selection & Sizing; R. N. Brown
• Centrifugal and Rotary Pumps - Fundamentals with Applications; Nelik

And don't forget: everything isn't to be found in textbooks; you have to have the opportunity to experience Hands-on operation, control, and maintenance of the subject equipment before really feeling comfortable in your knowledge of it.

[Bal]

Thanks a lot for your comments