Methods and apparatuses for detecting surge in centrifugal compressors

摘要

A surge detection system for use in a fluid system having a load driven by a centrifugal compressor (12), the compressor (12) being driven by an electric motor (20). The surge detection system comprises a means (38, 40) for sensing a differential pressure developed across the compressor (12) and a means (42) for sensing a current representing input power to the motor (20). The surge detection system further comprises a first computing means responsive to the differential pressure developed across the compressor (12) for indicating when a valid surge is occurring in the compressor (12), and a second computing means responsive to the variable speed drive current for indicating when a valid surge is occurring in the compressor (12).