Apparatus and Method For Controlling Supply of Barrier Gas in a Compressor Module

摘要

An apparatus for controlling the supply of barrier gas to a compressor module includes a pressure housing containing an electric motor which via a shaft is drivably connected to a compressor. The shaft is supported by magnetic bearings and at least one axial seal around the shaft which divides the pressure housing into first and second compartments including the motor and compressor, respectively. The second compartment has fluid inlet and outlet. A line is fluid-connected to the first compartment for barrier gas from a reservoir, with a flow restriction element between the reservoir and first compartment. The apparatus facilitates a method for controlling the supply of barrier gas based on gas velocity through the seal and pressure in the second compartment. An overpressure can be set in the reservoir. A controlled supply of barrier gas to at least the first compartment is effected via flow restriction in the feed pipe.