The Turbo Air® 3000 Centrifugal Compressor Compressor Handbook

Inlet Startup Screen
Inlet Guide Assembly
Inlet Expansion Joint
Figure A—5. Detail of Inlet Air Connection with Options
Installation
Piping Material
When selecting the pipe to be used, it is advisable to either select corrosion-resistant piping or, alternatively,
to treat the pipe to provide additional corrosion protection. When fabricating the inlet air piping,
also take care to provide suitable support so as to sufficiently isolate the piping forces from the compressor
itself.
In those instances when fiberglass piping will be used for the inlet air lines, be sure to follow these
recommendations:
· Select pipe material that can tolerate bypass air temperatures of up to 350°F (175°C).
· Use pipe and fittings that are filament wound with continuous glass filaments and epoxy resin.
· Provide the fiberglass piping with additional reinforcement to evenly distribute the load along
the pipe.
· Insulate the pipe to minimize noise.
Drains
Provide adequate drains at low points to accommodate the condensate that collects on the inlet line
during compressor shutdown periods. This will deter rusting and eventual erosion of aerodynamic
components, either of which would otherwise reduce overall compressor performance and component
life span.
Fabrication
Use 8” or larger (or comparable size) pipe to connect the inlet air filter to the compressor. Do not use
pipe smaller than 8” (or comparable size), since the smaller size will cause reduced inlet air pressures
and impaired compressor performance.
Provide a straight run of approximately four pipe diameters before the inlet guide vanes (IGV’s) to
minimize flow distortion. Also, avoid using many elbows and sharp bends in the compressor inlet
piping.
A—11