ARGON COMPRESSOR

Reciprocating compressors have high volumetric and thermal efficiencies. In the medium-to-high pressure range (typically below 200 bar) and for small-to-large displacements (e.g., 100–50,000 Nm³/h), they can achieve lower specific energy consumption. Their structure is mature, procurement and maintenance costs are relatively competitive, and wearing parts have a long service life, resulting in outstanding overall operational economy.

They can adapt to a wide range of suction conditions from atmospheric to high pressure. They possess strong flow regulation capability and can flexibly match varying operating requirements over a wide range through bypass regulation, variable frequency drive, and other methods, meeting the needs of continuous production or fluctuating gas supply.

To maintain argon purity, a completely oil-free lubrication design must be adopted. The cylinder, piston rings, and rider rings should use self-lubricating materials to ensure no oil mist is generated during operation. Given argon's moderate molecular weight and the need to prevent leakage, the piston rod packing must employ high-performance labyrinth seals or a nitrogen buffer seal system to ensure sealing while minimizing friction and wear.

Due to the significant temperature rise during argon compression, the number of compression stages must be rationally allocated, and the compression ratio at each stage must be strictly controlled. Interstage and final cooling must be reinforced to ensure that the discharge temperature at each stage does not exceed 135–150 °C, preventing material overheating, aging, or safety hazards. Based on the inlet temperature, target discharge pressure, and flow rate, the cooling load must be accurately calculated, and an efficient water-cooled or air-cooled system must be designed. Multi-point temperature monitoring with alarm and shutdown interlocks should be provided.

Although argon is non-flammable, its asphyxiation risk cannot be ignored. The compressor room must have good ventilation, and oxygen concentration monitors can be installed in the equipment area. The suction end must be equipped with a high-efficiency filter to prevent particles from entering the cylinder. Buffer tanks should be installed at the inlet and outlet to dampen pulsation. The entire system must comply with standards and be configured with safety valves at each stage, low lubricating oil pressure protection, cooling water flow alarms, and other safety devices to ensure long-term stable operation.