A numerical optimization of the suction valve of a large reciprocating compressor has been carried out as a case study, using a combination of a compressor simulation program and a genetic optimization algorithm. This optimization algorithm is based on the theory of biological evolution: survival of the fittest. The compressor simulation program solves the mass and energy conservation laws for the suction chamber, cilinder and discharge chamber. The dynamics of the valves are described by Newtonian motion and the piping system is partly taken into account as flow restrictions. A set of optimal designs has been generated by assigning different combinations of weight factors to the volumetric efficiency, the isentropic efficiency and the impact velocity of the valve. These performance data were used for judging the compressor quality. This procedure can be applied as an effective design tool when a considerable number of parameters is involved, especially when analytical optimization is either impossible or too complex.
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