Compressor control: Controller provides live view of compressor performance

New Orleans — A dynamic compressor surge map providing visual confirmation of compressor performance is the centerpiece of a new compressor anti-surge controller from Petrotech Inc., a 30-year supplier of turbomachinery control solutions. The integrated controller and human-machine interface (HMI) product is the company’s first stand-alone compressor anti-surge controller with a built-in color human machine interface display.

Users traditionally rely on separate, more costly HMI systems to see live performance. The Em‑400 touch screen HMI gives the operator comprehensive compressor information and control in a compact display built into the front panel of the Em‑400 controller; it does not require any additional panel space.

The Em-400 can control up to three compressor bodies and deliver live performance data visually. Source: Petrotech

Other features of the Em-400 include control of up to three compressor bodies, as well as capacity control, performance monitoring, load sharing, recycle transfer control, and user-directed pressure override control. The controller connects via standard Ethernet communications.

Petrotech began supplying stand-alone anti-surge controllers in the late 1970s to turbomachinery industry OEMs and now delivers controls and instrumentation for thousands of rotating machinery assets, including turbo-compressors, gas turbines, steam turbines, generators, reciprocating compressors, and associated auxiliary systems.

“Thirty years later, we find that many of these systems are still providing bullet-proof compressor surge protection,” says spokesman Martin Walker. “However, for those users who find the older systems simply unable to keep up with today’s information demands, Petrotech has designed the Em-400 as a direct upgrade replacement system.”

Petrotech’s primary facilities include offices in New Orleans and Houston, with support offices in all major regions of the world.

– Edited by Renee Robbins , senior editor Control Engineering News Desk Register here and scroll down to select your choice of eNewsletters free .

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