Introduction to MVR Steam Compressor Technology


Release date:

2022-04-29

Working Principle of MVR Steam Compressors Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR)—Mechanical Vapor Recompression refers to compressing the secondary steam (low temperature and low pressure) generated during evaporation (such as distillation) into a compressor, thereby increasing its temperature and pressure.

   MVR steam compressor The working principle

  

 MVR steam compressor


  Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR)—Mechanical Vapor Recompression refers to compressing the secondary steam (low temperature and low pressure) generated during evaporation (such as distillation) into a compressor, thereby increasing its temperature and pressure. This compressed steam is then reheated and returned to the heat source. In other words, a small amount of electricity can be used to generate a larger amount of heat, thus reducing the system's reliance on external energy sources.

  The core of MVR technology’s energy-saving principle lies in the thermal compression of secondary steam, which raises its temperature to that of the heat source and replaces fresh steam. In other words, by adding a few compressors, the liquid is repeatedly evaporated and concentrated in a closed loop. This process eliminates the need for external fresh steam, relying instead on the evaporator’s own circulation to achieve material evaporation, concentration, and crystallization.

   MVR steam compressor Category

  Steam compressors can be classified into positive-displacement compressors and dynamic compressors based on their operating principles. Among them, the Roots compressor is a commonly used type of positive-displacement compressor. As the rotor rotates, gas is drawn in from the inlet port and transported toward the vicinity of the outlet port. At the moment when the gas connects to the outlet port, the higher-pressure gas flows back, causing a sudden increase in pressure within the working volume and a corresponding rise in steam temperature. Generally, Roots steam compression fans operate at speeds ranging from 980 to 1,450 rpm. The Roots compressor is suitable for processing materials with an evaporation throughput of 4 tons per hour and a temperature rise of 20°C. Its main advantages include high efficiency, high compression ratio, and low requirements for the stability of the inlet gas pressure. However, its disadvantages include small displacement, complex structure, poor continuous-operation performance, significant vibration, short maintenance intervals, and high maintenance costs.

  The MVR steam compressor consists primarily of two main components: the driver and the impeller. The driver serves as the power source for the compressor; typically, it is an electric motor. The impeller is the key working component of the Roots compressor, and its main parts include the wall plates, the housing, the impeller blades, gears, the oil tank, and bearings.

  Commonly used MVR steam compressor There are low-speed centrifugal compressors and high-speed centrifugal compressors. Among them, the low-speed centrifugal steam compressor has a rotational speed of 6,000 to 9,000 r/min, with an evaporation capacity of 40 tons/hour and a temperature rise of 9°C—a conventional design featuring a relatively high temperature rise. The maximum rotational speed of a single-stage high-pressure centrifugal fan is 30,000 r/min. The advantages of centrifugal compressors include large production capacity, uniform air supply, smooth flow, direct connection to the prime mover, simple structure, low vulnerability, long service life, minimal operator requirements, and compact footprint. However, their disadvantages include susceptibility to surge, relatively low compression ratio, high rotor speeds, and unsuitability for low-flow operating conditions. A centrifugal steam compressor system consists of a compressor and a lubrication system. Centrifugal steam compressors offer advantages such as resistance to impact, high pressure ratio, compact structure, small footprint, wide adjustment range, and smooth operation. The compressor mainly comprises a rotor, transmission components, a housing, a lubrication system, a control system, a base, and supports. The transmission section includes the prime mover, bearings, and gears; the prime mover employs variable-speed operation, allowing it to adjust its rotational speed smoothly during startup and shutdown, thus achieving stable operation and precise regulation of the flow rate. Compared to using existing imported regulating valves to control the flow rate, this approach can significantly save energy. The housing is entirely welded from stainless steel and undergoes complete machining after heat treatment, ensuring dimensional accuracy and tight fit. The control system primarily monitors parameters such as bearing temperature, bearing vibration, inlet temperature and pressure of the lubricating oil, and flow rate.

  The gas station provides lubrication for the compressor. The system uses synthetic lubricants, which offer superior low-temperature fluidity even in cold conditions, thereby creating a better operating environment. They also ensure smooth operation at high temperatures without any sediment formation. With enhanced lubricity, the MVR steam compressor can effectively minimize corrosion. By completely eliminating water-based lubrication, these synthetic oils can fully blend with mineral oils.