TC Series turboexpander package
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TC · DTC · THC Series Turboexpanders

Turboexpanders · licensed by Air Liquide® Turboexpanders (ALT) · core refrigeration for air separation and gas liquefaction

90% Expander efficiencyExpansion work recovered via coaxial compressor
24:1 Expansion ratioSingle-stage maximum
115k Maximum speedRPM · high-speed tilt-pad bearings
7.5MW Refrigeration capacityUp to 10,000 HP
TC SERIES · Overview

Coaxial compressor recovery delivers up to 90% overall efficiency

Full-range Air Liquide® Turboexpanders (ALT): expansion work is recovered through the coaxial compressor end, avoiding standalone generator or brake losses. Domex-E is ALT's global skid integration center, from small liquefaction to large ASU projects.

TC turboexpander package structural detail

Four engineering decisions that define long-cycle turboexpander reliability

From inlet guide vanes through rotor assembly, every critical structural choice is optimized for stable long-term operation at high flow and speed.

  1. 01
    "Zero-leakage" inlet guide vanes Adjustable vanes with self-tightening cover plates eliminate overhang clearance; flow adjustable to 125% of design.
  2. 02
    Independent labyrinth seals at both ends Dual vent-to-atmosphere design minimizes seal gas consumption and blocks external contamination.
  3. 03
    Self-aligning impeller assembly Taper bore auto-compensates for thermal growth; impeller and shaft ends independently removable for field maintenance.
  4. 04
    Robust high-load rotor Rigid shaft with tilt-pad bearings; oil-film, gas-dynamic, or magnetic bearing options.
PERFORMANCE ENVELOPE · Full specifications

Performance envelope across the full expander family

From TC2000 through TC12000 on a unified structural platform. Values below are family maximums; selection depends on process conditions.

Expander efficiency 90% Coaxial recovery + Air Liquide® ALT technology
Expansion ratio 24: 1 Single-stage maximum
Specific speed range 40 – 140 Low / mid / high specific speed duty
Tip speed 457m/s Up to 1,500 ft/sec
Maximum speed 115,000RPM High-speed tilt-pad bearings
Refrigeration capacity 7,457kW Up to 10,000 HP
Applications & Configuration

Complete configuration from process to compliance

ALT expanders support multiple process media and option packages, certified to major international pressure vessel and safety codes for hazardous-area use.

Typical applications

  • Air separation units
  • Gas liquefaction plants
  • Process gas recovery
  • Cryogenic energy recovery

Process media

  • Air
  • Nitrogen
  • Off-gas (high oxygen content)
  • Carbon dioxide
  • Carbon monoxide

Options & certifications

  • Inlet filters
  • Inlet emergency shutdown (ESD) valves
  • Anti-surge control systems
  • Installation packages (safe / hazardous areas)
  • Cryogenic performance testing
  • Spare cartridge with nozzle assembly
  • Final-stage coolers
  • ASME · HPGSL · CE/PED

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