Parametric Analysis of Gas Leakage in the Piston–Cylinder Clearance of Reciprocating Compressors

Gas leakage is one of the main sources inefficiencies in low-capacity reciprocating compressors, undermining compressor performance by reducing mass flow rate and increasing energy consumption. In piston–cylinder clearance driven piston motion pressure difference between compression chamber internal environment shell. This paper reports a parametric numerical analysis compressor. A simulation model based on Reynolds equation applied throughout cycle to assess effect operating conditions, geometry, velocity secondary performance. 3D CFD also developed validate evaluate leakage, assuming fixed with predetermined eccentricities. The results show that compressibility effects are very relevant estimate gas leakage. simulations revealed more detrimental when it low back-pressure conditions. Additionally, can intensify up 90%. On other hand, only plays minor role assessing