How can we ensure that the lubricating oil does not re-mix into the gas during gravity settling?
Oil separator design and lubricating oil anti-mixing mechanism
During the compressor exhaust process, high-temperature and high-pressure gas is discharged with lubricating oil. The primary task of the oil separator is to achieve efficient separation of oil and gas. Gravity sedimentation is an important stage of oil and gas separation, and its effect is directly related to the purity and efficiency of lubricating oil recovery. In order to ensure that the lubricating oil will not be re-mixed into the gas during gravity sedimentation, the oil separator has taken multiple measures and mechanisms in design.
1. Carefully designed flow channel and internal structure
The design of the internal flow channel of the oil separator is crucial, which determines the movement trajectory and separation efficiency of gas and lubricating oil. By optimizing the flow channel structure, the gas forms a stable rotating flow field in the separator, and the centrifugal force is used to throw peerless of the lubricating oil droplets to the inner wall of the separator. At the same time, the design of the flow channel must also consider reducing gas turbulence and eddy currents to reduce the possibility of lubricating oil droplets being re-involved in the airflow.
2. Smooth inner wall and reasonable angle
The smoothness of the inner wall of the oil separator has a direct impact on the flow resistance of the lubricating oil. The smooth inner wall can reduce the friction and retention of lubricating oil droplets during the flow process, so that they can flow smoothly to the collection area along a specific path. In addition, the reasonable inner wall angle design can guide the lubricating oil droplets to fall in the notable posture, avoiding splashing or rebounding during the flow process, thereby increasing the risk of re-mixing into the gas.
3. Effective isolation measures
In order to prevent the separated lubricating oil droplets from being re-absorbed into the gas flow during gravity sedimentation, isolation measures such as baffles and guide plates are usually set inside the oil separator. These isolation devices can block the direct impact of the airflow and ensure that the lubricating oil droplets are not disturbed during the sedimentation process. At the same time, they can also guide the gas to flow in a specific path to reduce the disturbance of the airflow to the lubricating oil collection area.
4. Stable collection area design
The collection area of the oil separator is where the lubricating oil finally gathers, and its design must fully consider the collection efficiency and stability of the lubricating oil. The size, shape and position of the collection area should be accurately calculated and simulated to ensure that all downstream lubricating oil droplets can be efficiently collected. At the same time, the collection area must also have good sealing performance to prevent lubricating oil from leaking out or gas from seeping in.
5. Automated monitoring and discharge system
To further improve the performance and reliability of the oil separator, modern refrigeration systems are usually equipped with automated monitoring and discharge systems. These systems can monitor the level and status of the lubricating oil in the oil separator in real time, and automatically start the discharge procedure when the preset conditions are met. By timely discharging the lubricating oil in the collection area, the risk of excessive accumulation of lubricating oil causing overflow or re-mixing with gas can be avoided.
6. Regular maintenance and care
The performance of the oil separator will gradually decline with the extension of the use time, so regular maintenance and care are the key to ensure its long-term and efficient operation. By regularly cleaning the inside of the separator, replacing worn parts, checking the sealing performance and other measures, the oil separator can be kept in good condition and the possibility of lubricating oil re-mixing with gas can be reduced.