What is a reciprocating compressor?

What is a reciprocating compressor?

Reciprocating compressor, also known as piston compressor, is a positive displacement compressor which uses the piston to do reciprocating linear motion in the cylinder to compress and transport gas. It is one of the oldest and most widely used compressor types.

Its working principle is very similar to the piston movement of an automobile engine, but its purpose is opposite: the engine converts the energy generated by the expansion of gas (a mixture of fuel and air) into mechanical work; The compressor consumes mechanical work, which reduces the gas volume and increases the pressure.

Core special requirements include:

Wide applicable pressure range: it can be applied from low pressure to ultra-high pressure (up to 350MPa or even higher), which is its most prominent advantage.

High thermal efficiency: compared with other types (such as centrifugal), the unit power consumption is usually lower under normal pressure.

Strong adaptability: the displacement can be adjusted in a wide range (such as by changing the speed, pushing open the suction valve, adjusting the clearance, etc.).

Insensitive to gas composition: it can compress air, nitrogen, hydrogen, natural gas, refrigerant, and even special gases such as flammable, toxic and corrosive.

Mature manufacturing technology: relatively low material requirements and rich experience in use and maintenance.

To sum up, reciprocating compressor is a "meritorious veteran" in the field of gas compression. With its super high pressure adaptability and mature reliability, it occupies an irreplaceable position in the industrial field that needs high pressure or special medium compression.