A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a fluid, such as natural gas or air, by reducing its volume. This process is known as compression. Compressor can be classified into two type which is Positive Displacement Compressor and Dynamic Compressor.
Positive displacement compressors are those that work by trapping a fixed volume of air or gas and then physically reducing the volume of the trapped air or gas to compress it. Examples of positive displacement compressors include:
- Reciprocating compressor
- Rotary screw compressor
- Rotary vane compressor
- Lobe compressor
- Diaphragm compressor
- Scroll compressor
Dynamic compressors, on the other hand, work by increasing the velocity of the air or gas, which then causes a decrease in pressure and an increase in density. Examples of dynamic compressors include:
- Centrifugal compressor
- Axial flow compressor
- Turbo compressor
Compressors are used in various stages in Industry for example in the oil and gas production process, Compressor used from the initial exploration and extraction of resources to the transportation and distribution of products. In exploration and production, compressors are used to enhance oil and natural gas recovery, by injecting compressed air or gas into the well to increase pressure, and thus the flow of oil and gas. In transportation, compressors are used to compress natural gas for transportation through pipelines. In processing and refining, compressors are used to separate different components of crude oil and natural gas and to purify the natural gas.
Compressors in the oil and gas industry have to withstand harsh operating conditions, including high temperatures, high pressures, and exposure to corrosive gases and liquids. As a result, they are typically constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel and are equipped with cooling systems to keep them from overheating. In addition, regular maintenance and inspection is crucial to ensure the compressor is running efficiently and safely. The most common type of compressor used for oil and gas is reciprocating compressor and centrifugal compressor.