New York-listed control products and services provider Flowserve Corporation last month launched a new liquid ring compressor, the SIHI KPHX, at the 2015 Achema trade show, in Germany.

Flowserve sales CPI/GI VP Erich Mohrdieck says that the KPHX compressor boasts pressure capabilities of up to 12 bar and that it features low noise levels and reduced vibration.

“Its modern compressor design meets customer requirements for a safer, more efficient liquid ring compressor that reduces the need for service and maintenance. Its bearings and mechanical seals are also arranged outside the pump, which enables easy replacement, with no need to dismantle the complete compressor. Further, the compressor does not require special heavy-duty cranes or tools, and pipework can usually remain connected to the unit,” he explains.

The KPHX design has two impellers and uses three-stage compression. The first impeller is divided into two single-flow chambers, enabling the impeller cell volume to adjust to the required compression ratio.

Its vanes are curved for optimum energy transfer and have been designed with an increased hub diameter, enabling the product to withstand maximum bending loads and inherent frequencies. Axial loads are absorbed by oil- lubricated bearings and the bearing clearance is significantly reduced to prevent shafts from bending under any operating conditions.

A double-shaft seal design, combined with the unit’s method of compression, offers the user maximum safety when compressing explosive mixtures, as well as toxic and environmentally hazardous media. Further, any fluids within the gas flow can be easily handled by a liquid ring unit.

The compressor is available in materials typically required for more demanding operating environments. The unit complies with NACE Standard MR 0103 and ANSI/NACE MR0175/ISO 15156, making it suitable for use with acid gases. Further, the compressor meets API 681 requirements.

Flowserve operates in more than 55 countries. The company produces engineered and industrial pumps, seals and valves, as well as a range of related flow-management services.