Function of Inert Gas Blowers

The distribution of IG on tanks begins with IG blowers. These electric or steam

turbine driven centrifugal blowers pressurize the inert gas before passing it through
a deck water seal into the distribution pipeline of the cargo tanks. The cooled inert
gas enters the blowers after passing through the scrubber.

A minimum of 2 blowers must be fitted to the system and the combined blower
volume output should be at least 1.25 times the total rated capacity of all the cargo
pumps put together. Cargo pumps rated capacity is when discharging against 150
mtr. head. If discharging against lower head at rated capacity, then quantity
discharged may increase which would be taken care of by 1.25 times blower
capacity.

The blowers should be capable of maintaining a minimum positive pressure of

200mm of water gauge (w.g) in the cargo tanks regardless of the number or
combination of tanks being discharged. The maximum discharge pressure should
not exceed the tank test pressure of 2500mm of wg.

Although it is normal to designate 1 blower in operation and other on standby,

some system may include one large blower of 100% capacity for normal operation
and other smaller blower of 33% capacity to supplement IG supply in case of
unloading at maximum rated output of pumps or for topping up operations at sea.

The advantage for both blowers of equal capacity is that if either blower is
defective, the other one is capable of maintaining a positive gas pressure in the
cargo tanks without extending the duration of the cargo discharge

Design Criteria

The blower casing should be constructed of corrosion-resistant material. The

impellers should be manufactured of a corrosion-resistant material and should be
tested by over speeding to 20 per cent above the design running speed of the
electric motor, or 10 per cent above the speed at which the over speed trip of the
turbine would operate, whichever is applicable. Substantial drains, fitted with
adequate water seals, should be provided in the casing to prevent damage by an
accumulation of water. Means, such as fresh water washing, should be provided to
remove the build-up of deposits that would cause vibration during blower
operation. Sufficient openings in the casing should be provided to permit
inspection.

When both blowers are not of equal capacity, the pressure-volume characteristics
and inlet and outlet piping should be so matched that, if both blowers can be run in
parallel, they are able to develop their designed outputs; the arrangements should
be such as to prevent the blower on load from motoring the blower that is stopped
or has tripped out.