OPERATION OF A FLEXIBLE PISTON STAGE

Modern piston compressors have relatively high performance characteristics, with a delivery ratio of at least 0.85 in many cases. The main potential for further performance improvement lies in reducing the impact of clearance volume, which accounts for 10−15%. There are known designs in which the clearance volume is practically eliminated through the use of elastomeric elements. This article examines the operation of a piston compressor stage with a flexible piston, which, through deformation of the end surface made of an elastomer, allows the working chamber volume to be increased at the bottom dead center position. Thus, under the operating conditions considered, the performance increase ranges from 6 to 40%. The operating process itself is also of interest. Indicator and temperature charts show faster pressure rise and
temperature increase when using the proposed design. Further studies will present the results of modeling the elastic deformation state of the elastomeric element, determining the actual capabilities of existing materials for increasing the chamber volume.