Flow Stabilization

Reciprocating pumps and compressors create pulsating discharge. Batch operations generate intermittent flows. Variable-speed equipment produces fluctuating rates. Suppressor drums on discharge lines convert these variations into steady flow downstream. Volume and internal design absorb pulsations maintaining stable conditions.

Vessel Design

Horizontal or vertical drum sized for flow dampening requirements. Inlet from pulsating source, internal volume providing surge capacity, baffles dissipating energy, outlet to downstream system at steady conditions. Gas space in liquid systems compresses and expands absorbing pulsations.

Pulsation Dampening

Reciprocating compressor discharge contains pressure waves at cylinder firing frequency. Without dampening, these pulsations damage piping, instruments, and downstream equipment. Suppressor volume and acoustic design attenuate pulsations to acceptable levels typically under 5% peak-to-peak.

Operating Pressure

Design pressure matches discharge conditions typically 150-1500 psig for compressors, 50-300 psig for pumps. Pressure rating provides margin above operating pressure plus pulsation amplitude. Materials handle cycling from pulsating service.

Material Selection

Carbon steel works for most hydrocarbon or gas service. Stainless steel for corrosive or high-purity applications. Materials resist fatigue from pressure cycling. Welding quality critical for pulsating service - full penetration welds, proper procedures, complete inspection.

Applications

Reciprocating compressor discharge dampening, positive displacement pump smoothing, batch process flow buffering, metering station stabilization upstream of custody transfer meters, and any discharge where flow stability matters. Protects control valves, meters, and downstream processes.

Internal Configuration

Baffles prevent inlet momentum from reaching outlet directly. Some designs use perforated plates creating tortuous path dissipating energy. Gas cushion in liquid applications provides compressibility damping pulsations. Outlet location minimizes direct communication with inlet.

Acoustic Design

For compressor pulsation, vessel acts as acoustic filter. Volume, length, and internal features tuned to attenuate problem frequencies. Pulsation analysis determines optimal configuration. Properly designed suppressors reduce pulsations 80-95%.

Control Considerations

Stable discharge flow improves downstream control. Flow meters read accurately without pulsation errors. Pressure controllers function better with steady conditions. Temperature control responds properly without flow-induced variations.

Performance Benefits

Reduces piping vibration and fatigue from pulsating service. Protects instruments from damage and erratic readings. Extends equipment life by eliminating cycling stresses. Improves process control stability. Simple proven technology.

Construction Standards

Design per ASME Section VIII with materials suitable for cycling service. Acoustic analysis for pulsation applications per API 618. Welding procedures and inspection appropriate for fatigue service. Complete documentation with pulsation calculations and material specifications.

ERGIL discharge suppressor drums stabilize downstream flow from reciprocating equipment and batch processes through volume buffering and acoustic dampening.