GEA, a German-based large-scale HVAC&R manufacturer, has launched a new high-pressure screw compressor, Grasso L XHP, optimized for ammonia (R717) heat pumps, featuring a design pressure of up to 70bar (1,016psi).
The new L XHP series, available in three models, offers heating capacities from 2 to 11MW (569 to 3,128TR) with a maximum discharge temperature of 140°C (284°F). GEA’s previous ammonia compressor lines, Grasso M and Grasso LT, both offer design pressures of 28 and 52bar (406 and 754psi).
“To ensure that the L XHP delivers the efficiency and reliability expected of a sustainable solution, we engineered an innovative new rotor profile,” GEA said. “When combined with the robust design and new balance piston concept, it makes the [unit] the best high-pressure screw compressor we have ever created.”
The specifications: With an operational speed of 2,940 revolutions per minute, the models offer sweep volumes of 1,990, 2,390, or 2,748m3 per hour (1,172, 1,407 or 1,617ft3 per minute).
- The L XHP series includes Variable Vi (volumetric interference factor), which supports accurate performance and capacity prediction by adapting volumetric efficiency to changes in suction and discharge pressures, temperature or rotor speed.
- The operational rotor speed tops out at 3,600 revolutions per minute.
- The maximum condensation temperature is 95°C (203°F).
Already in operation: The L XHP compressor was first installed in early 2024 in a 24MW (6,824TR)-capacity ammonia heat pump system for a district heating facility at a combined heat and power plant operated by Estonian utility provider Utilitas, according to Kenneth Hoffman, Product Manager at GEA.
- Hoffman shared details of the Tallinn installation in a presentation at the ATMOsphere (ATMO) Europe Summit 2024. The event was organized by ATMOsphere, publisher of NaturalRefrigerants.com, and held in Prague, Czech Republic, from November 25–26.
- The system consists of four 6MW (1,706TR) ammonia heat pump units that recover waste heat from an onsite biomass incinerator at a temperature of 22–32°C (71–89°F).
- In 2,500 hours of operation, the heat pumps delivered hot water at 47–85°C (116–185°F) to the district heating network with a COP greater than 4, Hoffman reported.
Quotable: “Based on proven GEA Grasso screw compressor technology, which has been continuously developed and improved over the last 50 years, the L XHP, with its optimized design, is suitable for a wide range of applications,” said GEA. “It’s perfect for ammonia heat pumps and high-pressure gas applications.”
“When combined with the robust design and new balance piston concept, it makes the [unit] the best high-pressure screw compressor we have ever created.”
GEA
