The high-pressure rotor balance diaphragm structure and function of Atlas Copco air compressors
Structural characteristics: Usually, it is a thin sheet-like metal diaphragm (mostly made of high-strength alloy steel or stainless steel), with certain elasticity and toughness. It is installed at the end of the rotor or on the balance disc through specific methods (such as bolt fixation).
Balance principle: When the rotor rotates at high speed, the diaphragm can absorb or compensate for the imbalance caused by manufacturing tolerances, operating wear, etc. of the rotor, reducing radial vibration and avoiding abnormal friction between the rotor and the casing, bearings, etc.
Auxiliary function: Some diaphragms also have sealing functions, preventing high-pressure gas from leaking along the rotor shaft end or isolating lubricating oil from the compression air chamber.
Material and performance requirements
Material selection: It should have high strength (able to withstand the centrifugal force of the rotor's high-speed rotation), fatigue resistance (adapt to long-term high-frequency vibration), and temperature resistance (able to adapt to the compressor's operating temperature, usually 100-200°C). Common materials are precipitation-hardened stainless steel or alloy materials.
Precision requirements: The manufacturing precision must be extremely high, with thickness and flatness strictly controlled (usually measured in micrometers), to ensure the accuracy of balance adjustment and avoid exacerbating rotor imbalance due to insufficient precision.
Application and maintenance
Applicable models: Mainly used for high-pressure rotor stages (such as compressors with an exhaust pressure ≥ 30 bar), such as ZT series high-pressure screw machines, ZH series oil-free high-pressure compressors, etc. The size and installation method of the diaphragms vary for different models.
Replacement time: When the compressor shows excessive vibration values (exceeding the specified vibration intensity standard of the equipment), abnormal increase in operating noise, or cracks, deformation, or fatigue damage to the diaphragm, it is necessary to replace it in time.
Installation precautions: During replacement, it is necessary to operate strictly in accordance with the original factory specifications to ensure the concentricity between the diaphragm and the rotor, and the fixing bolts should be tightened according to the specified torque to avoid premature failure of the new diaphragm due to improper installation.
Importance and selection
The high-pressure rotor balance diaphragm is a key component for ensuring the safe operation of the compressor. Its failure may lead to increased rotor vibration, resulting in bearing damage, rotor seizure, and other serious faults, and even equipment shutdown.
It is necessary to select Atlas Copco original factory parts because their size, material, and precision are fully matched with the specific model of the rotor. Non-original parts may cause balance failure or safety hazards due to substandard performance.
