Session: Student Poster Competition

Submission Number: 185586

Centrifugal Compressor Design for Mechanical Vapor Recompression (Mvr) 

Centrifugal Compressor Design for Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR)

Abstract

Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR) is a high-efficiency thermal integration technology 
extensively applied in industrial evaporation and separation processes. The effectiveness of 
MVR systems is predominantly governed by the performance of the centrifugal compressor, 
which functions as the primary device for vapor compression and energy recovery.
The design of centrifugal compressors for MVR applications presents distinct engineering 
challenges arising from the low vapor density and high specific volume of the working fluid, 
the requirement for stable operation over a broad operating envelope, and stringent constraints 
on overall system efficiency. These factors necessitate careful aerodynamic, thermodynamic, 
and mechanical optimization.
This study investigates critical aspects of MVR centrifugal compressor design, including 
aerodynamic optimization of impellers and vaned or vaneless diffusers to achieve a turndown 
ratio exceeding 50% while maintaining high efficiency and operational stability. Appropriate 
Mach number limits are identified, and mitigation strategies for condensation and moisture 
entrainment within the compression path are examined.
Key design variables—such as impeller configuration, rotational speed, pressure ratio, and 
shaft power requirement—are systematically evaluated to ensure reliable and efficient 
compressor operation. Thermodynamic performance is assessed using steady-state mass and 
energy balance formulations, while material selection and mechanical design constraints are 
addressed to ensure structural integrity, durability, and continuous-duty reliability.
The study emphasizes the application of advanced meanline design methodologies and 
computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for performance optimization and accurate 
prediction under both design and off-design operating conditions. Additionally, the integration 
of high-efficiency variable-speed drives, optimized sealing systems (including labyrinth and 
carbon ring seals), and anti-friction bearing arrangements is discussed to enhance reliability, 
reduce maintenance requirements, and minimize capital cost.
Collectively, the design considerations presented establish a comprehensive framework for the 
development of high-performance MVR centrifugal compressors capable of delivering 
significant energy savings in industrial evaporation, wastewater treatment, and other thermal 
process applications.

Presenting Author: Jayshankar Ray Indian Institute of Science

Presenting Author Biography: Jayshankar Ray
Ph. D Scholar
Indian Institute of science.

Authors:

Jayshankar Ray Indian Institute of Science
Gaurav Giri Organisation: Triveni Turbines Limited
Saravanan Venkatesh Organisation:Triveni Turbines Limited
Pu Gopi Organisation;Triveni Turbines Limited
Pramod Kumar Indian Institute of science