What is surging and choking in a centrifugal compressor?

Question

Accepted Answer

Surging and choking are two common operating conditions in centrifugal compressors.

Surging occurs when the flow rate through the compressor is reduced to the point where the compressor cannot maintain a stable flow and pressure. This leads to a pulsating flow and can cause damage to the compressor.
Choking happens when the flow rate through the compressor is increased to the point where the compressor cannot handle the volume of gas being fed into it. This results in a decrease in efficiency and an increase in power consumption.
Surging can be mitigated by adjusting the inlet guide vanes or recycle valves, while choking can be alleviated by increasing the size of the compressor or reducing the inlet flow rate.
Examples: Surging can occur during sudden changes in load or when the compressor is operating at low flow rates. Choking may happen when the compressor is operating at high flow rates or when there is a blockage in the inlet duct.

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