Advanced Technologies for Reciprocating Compressors with Respect to Performance and Reliability

Reciprocating compressors play a key role in the today industry. They are vital machines in various units of industrial plants from air compression units to refineries, gas processing plants, petrochemical facilities, refrigeration systems, LNG units and so on. They are the most efficient and the most common type of compressor. Advantages of new technologies compared to old-fashion designs for various components and sub-systems of these machines are described. The focus of article is on modern developments and latest achievements for reciprocating compressors to enhance the performance and reliability, while keeping cost within a certain acceptable limit. Case studies are also presented.