In previous post, I shared how to calculate reciprocating compressor power if number of compression stage is two and three, respectively. In this post, I will use the same problem/example to estimate reciprocating compressor power if number of compression stage is 4. In the end of this posting series, I will show you the difference of each stage and to see how important to determine number of compression stages.

The method used to calculate reciprocating compressor is the same, whether it is two-stage, three-stage, or four-stage. There are several steps which is repetitive.

Example

Compress 2 MMscfd of gas measured at 14.65 psia and 60^oF. Intake pressure is 100 psia, and intake temperature is 100^oF. Discharge pressure is 900 psia. The gas has a specific gravity of 0.80 (23 MW). What is the required horse power?

Assuming number of stages is 4 Read More