Compressor terminology: identify the parameter that equals work per cycle divided by stroke volume. Definition focus: In reciprocating compressors, the ratio (workdone per cycle)/(stroke volume) is called what? Choose the correct term.
Mechanical Engineering
Compressors, Gas Dynamics and Gas Turbines
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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ACompressor capacity
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BCompression ratio
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CCompressor efficiency
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DMean effective pressure
Answer
Correct Answer: Mean effective pressure
Explanation
Given data / DefinitionQuantity of interest = (Workdone per cycle) ÷ (Stroke volume).
Concept/ApproachMean Effective Pressure (MEP) is defined so that if it acted uniformly on the piston through the stroke volume, it would produce the same work as the actual cycle.
Step-by-stepWcycle = MEP × VstrokeMEP = Wcycle / Vstroke
Why others are wrongCompressor capacity is generally volumetric flow per unit time; compression ratio is p2/p1; compressor efficiency compares ideal vs actual work.
Final AnswerMean effective pressure.