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Centrifugal Polytropic Head Calculator

GPSA Section 13 and API 617

Polytropic Head Calculator
Calculate polytropic head from pressure ratio, gas properties, and compressibility factors. Essential for centrifugal compressor sizing and performance verification per GPSA Section 13.

Pressure Conditions

psia
psia
°F

Gas Properties

lb/lbmol
Cp/Cv
dimensionless
dimensionless

Efficiency (Optional)

%
Used for gas power calculation

Quick Reference

  • Single stage: 8,000-12,000 ft-lbf/lbm typical
  • Max per stage: ~10,000 ft-lbf/lbm
  • Higher MW = lower head required
  • Higher k = higher head required

Standards & References

  • GPSA
    Section 13: Compressors
  • API 617
    Centrifugal Compressors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is polytropic head in a centrifugal compressor?

Polytropic head is the energy per unit mass imparted to the gas by the compressor, calculated from pressure ratio, gas properties, and compressibility factors.

What inputs are needed to calculate polytropic head?

You need pressure ratio, gas molecular weight, compressibility factors, suction temperature, and polytropic efficiency.

What standards does this polytropic head calculator follow?

It follows GPSA Section 13 and API 617 methods for centrifugal compressor polytropic head calculation.