Which of the following describes a characteristic of a centrifugal compressor?

Which of the following describes a characteristic of a centrifugal compressor?

• A. Uses rotary motion to compress refrigerant
• B. Utilizes a piston and cylinder mechanism
• C. Operates at lower pressures than reciprocating compressors
• D. Has fewer moving parts than rotary compressors

Answer: (A)

A centrifugal compressor is characterized by its use of rotary motion to compress refrigerant. In this type of compressor, the refrigerant enters at the center (the eye) of a rotating impeller and is flung outward by centrifugal force. This movement increases the velocity of the refrigerant, which is then converted to pressure as it moves through a diffuser. The design allows for continuous flow and is particularly efficient for large-scale systems, making it distinct from other compressor types that may rely on different mechanisms. The other options refer to characteristics of different compressor types or mechanisms. The use of a piston and cylinder mechanism is typical of reciprocating compressors, while the operating pressure characteristic refers to the nature of reciprocating compressors, which can handle various pressure ranges depending on their design. Similarly, the mention of rotary compressors suggests a different operational design than that of centrifugal compressors, which typically have a more complex mechanism compared to centrifugal designs. In summary, the correct choice highlights the fundamental operation of a centrifugal compressor, which hinges on its rotary motion to achieve refrigerant compression.

A centrifugal compressor is characterized by its use of rotary motion to compress refrigerant. In this type of compressor, the refrigerant enters at the center (the eye) of a rotating impeller and is flung outward by centrifugal force. This movement increases the velocity of the refrigerant, which is then converted to pressure as it moves through a diffuser. The design allows for continuous flow and is particularly efficient for large-scale systems, making it distinct from other compressor types that may rely on different mechanisms.

The other options refer to characteristics of different compressor types or mechanisms. The use of a piston and cylinder mechanism is typical of reciprocating compressors, while the operating pressure characteristic refers to the nature of reciprocating compressors, which can handle various pressure ranges depending on their design. Similarly, the mention of rotary compressors suggests a different operational design than that of centrifugal compressors, which typically have a more complex mechanism compared to centrifugal designs. In summary, the correct choice highlights the fundamental operation of a centrifugal compressor, which hinges on its rotary motion to achieve refrigerant compression.