Finite Element Analyses of Stresses Developed in Oil Separator Composite Tank Used in Screw Type Compressor Systems

Abstract

Pressure vessels are geometrically cylindrical, spherical or conical work equipment used for the storage and transportation of pressurized fluid. In the case of design and/or manufacturing deficiency, or for the case of improper applications of such vessels due to working conditions, the damages that may occur can cause serious harm to the environment and employees. The aim of this study is to estimate the performance of a typical oil separator pressure vessel used in screw compressor systems, exposed to high pressure and temperature, using finite element method. Here, the aim is to estimate performance of this tank after modifications in design and to compare the results with that of pressure vessel designed using conventional materials. The inner liner of the separator tank is metal material and the other layers are wrapped with three different composite materials, including carbon fiber/epoxy, glass fiber/epoxy and kevlar fiber/epoxy, at different angles, and then were exposed to high pressures in the environment of finite element simulation software. As a result of the study, stress and deformation values were examined and the most suitable material and orientation angle for the composite pressure vessel were decided. According to the results, it was observed that the lowest first-ply equivalent stress value was obtained in glass fiber/epoxy coated separator tanks at 11.25 bar pressure and 45 degree winding angle. In addition, it was observed that the lowest total deformation value was obtained in kevlar fiber/epoxy coated separator tanks at 11.25 bar pressure and 45 degree winding angle.