Overseas Project: 100,000 Nm³/h Main Air Compressor for 20,000 Nm³/h Oxygen ASU Successfully Rolled Off the Production Line
TurboCompre recently completed the manufacturing and final assembly of another large centrifugal air compressor. Designed for a 20,000 Nm³/h oxygen production air separation unit (ASU), the main air compressor features a rated flow of 100,000 Nm³/h and an installed power of 8,500 kW.
The successful completion of this major unit marks an important milestone in the project and demonstrates TurboCompre’s capabilities in the design, manufacturing, and delivery of large centrifugal compressors for overseas industrial projects.
100,000 Nm³/h Capacity for Large-Scale Air Separation
The compressor is designed with a rated flow of 100,000 Nm³/h and a discharge pressure of 5.7 barA.
The unit adopts a three-stage compression system with two-stage intercooling and is driven by a 10 kV high-voltage motor with an installed power of 8,500 kW.
As the main air compressor of the ASU, the unit provides a stable supply of compressed air for the entire air separation process. Its efficiency, reliability, and continuous operating capability are critical to the overall performance of the plant.
The compressor uses water-cooled shell-and-tube intercoolers to effectively control the compressed air temperature between stages and support stable operation under high-flow conditions.
Advanced Aerodynamic Design and Oil-Free Compression
The compressor is equipped with 3D milled impellers developed through advanced CFD aerodynamic optimization.
The optimized impeller design improves internal gas flow and contributes to an overall adiabatic efficiency of approximately 82%–86%.
For applications requiring high-quality process air, the unit adopts Class 0 oil-free compression technology. Carbon ring seals prevent lubricating oil from entering the process gas, helping maintain clean compressed air for downstream air separation processes.
IGV and Anti-Surge Control for Stable Operation
Stable operation under different load conditions is essential for large centrifugal compressors.
The unit is equipped with a first-stage Inlet Guide Vane (IGV) and an independent anti-surge control system. The control system enables rapid adjustment according to operating conditions and supports both constant-pressure and constant-flow control modes.
The compressor can operate within a flow range of 70%–105% of rated capacity, providing flexibility for different operating conditions.
The control system can also interface with the plant’s DCS, supporting centralized monitoring and operation of the ASU.
Designed for Long-Term Reliability
Large air separation plants typically require continuous and reliable operation, making mechanical reliability a key consideration in compressor design.
The unit is equipped with an independent lubrication oil system, tilting-pad bearings, auxiliary oil pumps, oil cooling, and oil filtration. Multiple temperature and pressure interlocks provide additional protection during operation.
The compressor is designed for a service life of more than 25 years, with a typical rotor overhaul interval of 3–5 years, supporting the long-term operating requirements of large industrial gas projects.
From China Manufacturing to Global Markets
The successful completion of this 100,000 Nm³/h centrifugal air compressor represents more than just another production milestone. It is also an important step in TurboCompre’s continued expansion into international markets and its development of large-scale centrifugal compressor solutions.
From process design and aerodynamic optimization to core component manufacturing, assembly, and testing, TurboCompre continues to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities and quality management system.
With a focus on air separation, industrial gases, chemical processing, and other process industries, TurboCompre provides customers worldwide with efficient, reliable, and cost-effective centrifugal compressor solutions.
As this major compressor prepares for shipment to its overseas destination, TurboCompre continues to bring Chinese engineering and manufacturing capabilities to global industrial projects.
TurboCompre — Reliable Centrifugal Compressor Solutions for the Global Industrial Market.