This book examines the full spectrum of compressor types, how they operate, how to control them, and how operating conditions can significantly impact their performance. Discussed in detail are the influence of pressure, temperature, molecular weight, specific heat ratio, compression ratio, speed, vane position, and volume bottles. The various methods of throughput control are also addressed, including discharge throttling, suction throttling, guide pain positioning, volume, bottles, suction valve unloaders, speed control, as well as how each of these control methods affects compressor life. Compressor surge is defined and discussed in detail, along with the types of instrumentation (controllers, valves, pressure, and temperature transmitters) available, and which of those are most suitable for controlling search.

Case studies have been included to illustrate the principles covered in the text. This edition also includes detailed information on compressor seals. Various types of seals providing the best results for different applications are discussed, thereby giving the reader a basic understanding of seals serotypes and applications.

Tony Giampaolo, MSME, P.E., President of Power & Compression Systems, has over 58 years of experience in the selection, installation, commissioning, operation, and maintenance of rotating equipment and equipment controls for both on and offshore environments, and the design and installation of load sharing & surge control system for multiple compressors (reciprocating and centrifugal) operating in parallel (electric motor and gas turbine driven). He is a Registered Professional Engineer (California, Nevada, Florida, Ohio), and a graduate of The University of Connecticut (MSME) and The Catholic University of America (BME). He has authored the Gas Turbine Handbook: Principles And Practice (5th Edition), articles for Oil & Gas Journal, Diesel & Gas Turbine Worldwide, Western Energy, and Cogeneration and On-Site Power magazines. He is also a member of professional, technical, and trade organizations. He has served as Chairman of the Orange County Chapter of the California Society of Professional Engineers, and the Technical Editor (Engines-Compressors-Turbines) for Western Energy Magazine. He has lectured on "Gas Turbine Performance and Diagnostics Techniques", "Turbo-compressor Operation", and "Effective Control Techniques for Turbocompressors". As part of the California State University part-time faculty, he taught Engineering Thermodynamics and, a course on cogeneration entitled "Blueprint For Cogeneration".