VATIS UPDATE Article

At the Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) held from 15-18 March 2016 in Italy, process technology manufacturer GEA presented a new compressor series designed for use with hydrocarbons – the HG44e – alongside its subcritical and transcritical CO2 compressors. With the HG44e, “the complete platform is optimised from the efficiency side,” said Manuel Fröschle, at GEA. Furthering the current trend towards developing new natural refrigerant-based technologies, the HG44e features optimised engine components and special oil filling in order to maximise performance.

With four model sizes, the HG44e hydrocarbons series covers the range of maximum displacements from 41.3 m3/h to 67,0 m3/h. For hydrocarbons, high solubility poses particular challenges in terms of compressor design. With the HG44e series, “the motor protection tool is located outside, not inside the box. And the drive gear is optimised to handle hydrocarbons,” said Fröschle. GEA also demonstrated compressor model EX-HG88e – the largest GEA compressor that is suitable for use in hazardous environments.

GEA is the first and only European manufacturer to offer semi-hermetic compressors for zone 1 and 2 ATEX- and recently also IECEx-certified. The compressors therefore conform to international standards. “Over the past three years, we have improved the efficiency and reliability of our complete CO2 range, as well as improving their running behaviour and extending their operating limits with an increase of condensing and evaporating temperatures in the subcritical CO2 compressors,” said Fröschle.