Optimization of discrete control of electric actuators of ventilators of gas air cooling appliances with analytical diagnostics of thermal condition

RELEVANCE. Gas air-cooling units (ACU) with discrete control of fan electric drives are widely used in gas transportation facilities, but existing discrete control schemes are characterized by increased energy consumption and insufficient regulation accuracy. The lack of analytically substantiated criteria for assessing the thermal condition of ACU sections further reduces the efficiency of control when the heat exchange characteristics of the equipment deteriorate.

PURPOSE. Development of an analytically substantiated methodology for optimal discrete control of gas ACU fan electric drives, which ensures reduced energy consumption while maintaining the required cooling efficiency and temperature stability.

METHODS. Analytical methods of thermal engineering analysis, regression modeling of passport characteristics, and methods of optimizing the modes of multi-stage cooling systems were used.

RESULTS. An integral indicator of the thermal efficiency of multi-stage cooling systems has been obtained, and a criterion for assessing the thermal technical state of gas cooling towers has been proposed for use in fan drive control systems. A layer-by-layer fan activation principle has been developed, and a combined optimization criterion has been formulated that allows for the simultaneous consideration of energy savings and temperature stability. The possibility of reducing energy consumption without compromising thermal technical characteristics has been substantiated.

CONCLUSION. The proposed approach allows to increase the energy efficiency and adaptability of discrete control systems for electric drives of gas ACU fans and provides the possibility of implementation in existing gas cooling systems without hardware upgrades.  

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