To prevent damage to the reciprocating compressor, what are compressors often fitted with?

Compressors are frequently fitted with a safety head to prevent damage during operation. A safety head serves as a critical safety device that activates under certain conditions, such as excessive pressure build-up within the compressor. When this situation occurs, the safety head provides a means for the excess pressure to be released, thereby preventing a potential rupture or catastrophic failure of the compressor.

The use of a safety head allows the compressor to operate within safe parameters and protects the entire system from the consequences of over-pressurization, which can lead to significant damage or even complete failure of the equipment. This is particularly important for reciprocating compressors, which are more susceptible to pressure variations compared to other types of compressors.

Other components like pressure gauges and suction strainers play important roles in monitoring and ensuring the proper operation of the compressor but do not directly prevent damage as effectively as a safety head. Pressure gauges measure the operating pressure but do not provide a relief mechanism, while suction strainers filter out debris before it enters the compressor, which is crucial for performance but does not prevent damage from excessive pressure. An expansion valve regulates the flow of refrigerant but is not designed to protect the compressor from pressure-related issues. Thus, a safety head is specifically designed to act as a protective feature,