Compressor regarding question

[Aryan@1234]

1. Can someone please give a brief about the HP and LP barrel used in any compressor , what is their purpose to use ?

2. Why do we generally give suction to any compressor from bottom side ?

 

[georgeverghese]

Q1. Compression duty may be split into 2 or more casings, stages or barrels if the overall dp is high. Intercooling is done between stages when discharge temp from one casing approaches 150degC in most gas applications. For H2, believe it is to be limited to 120degC.
In addition, max no of impellers per casing or barrel is limited to about 8 or 9.

Q2. Dont know of any pros or cons for bottom or top feed for compressor suction. When gas is at or could be close to dewpoint, suction piping should slope continuously back to compressor suction drum for either option. Casing drain should be included to drain out the casing of liquids prior to startup if necessary.