Economic aspects
When comparing a centrifugal, reciprocating and screw compressor, economic aspects are usually taken into account:
- Total acquisition costs
- Mounting
- Energy consumption
- The cost of repairs and supplies
- The need to purchase additional equipment.
| PARAMETER | RECIPROCATING | CENTRIFUGAL | SCREW |
| Initial investments | 120 - 130 % | 150 - 170 % | 100 % |
| Yearly power consumption | 110 % | 130 % | 100 % |
| Maintenance costs | 200 % | 100 % | 110 % |
| Maintenance difficulty | 130 % | 150 % | 100 % |
FEATURES AND COMPARISON OF COMPRESSORS BY MAIN CHARACTERISTICS OF OPERATION
POWER CONSUMPTION
This is one of the most important points when choosing equipment, due to the fact that this is one of the largest expense items.
Screw compressors, and today, have significantly lower energy costs than piston compressors. Some models are equipped with a frequency-controlled drive, which allows you to control productivity, and therefore electricity consumption, saving up to 30-50%.
ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION
The operation of a piston unit is characterized by strong vibration and a high noise level, so a separate room and a special foundation are required. A level area is sufficient for a screw compressor, since its design is equipped with rubber supports to dampen vibration and it can be located directly next to consumers.
VENTILATION
A screw compressor requires a ventilated room and will require installation of an air supply system and heat removal directly from the casing. For stable operation of the piston unit, additional supply and exhaust fans are needed, which means additional energy costs.
SERVICE LIFE
The service life of a screw compressor (screw pair) is an order of magnitude higher than that of a piston compressor (cylinders and pistons) due to its technological features.
MAINTENANCE AND ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
Ease of maintenance is also a significant advantage of screw compressors. Major repairs are required approximately every 40,000 engine hours for screw compressors. Piston compressors - every 16,000 engine hours + frequent replacement of valves, piston rings, liners and other parts.
MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF COMPRESSORS
The compressor is equipment that operates under high pressure. The slightest violation of the rules of its operation can lead to wear of important units, parts and, consequently, to breakdown of the units:
- Breakdown of the screw block
- Drives
- Failure of the frequency converter
- Engine control unit
MAIN CAUSES OF MALFUNCTIONS
The main causes of malfunctions before the end of the warranty period of compressors are:
- Incorrect installation supervision and training of service personnel
- High-quality diagnostics
- Frequency and non-compliance with the rules of operation of the unit specified in the operating document
- Poor use of service or installation materials and spare parts recommended by the manufacturer
- Maintaining a stock of consumables
COMPARATIVE TABLE OF COSTS FOR THE PURCHASE AND MAINTENANCE OF COMPRESSORS FOR BCS OF GTU
| PARAMETER | RECIPROCATING | CENTRIFUGAL | SCREW |
| Initial investments | 120 - 130 % | 150 - 170 % | 100 % |
| Yearly power consumption | 110 % | 130 % | 100 % |
| Maintenance costs | 200 % | 100 % | 110 % |
| Maintenance difficulty | 130 % | 150 % | 100 % |
