Reciprocating compressor optimum configuration with respect to performance, reliability and commercial conditions

Reciprocating compressors are flexible in order to handle wide capacity and condition swings, offer a very efficient method of compressing almost any gas mixture over a wide range of pressure, can generate a high head independent of density, and have numerous applications and wide power ratings. These make them vital components in various units of industrial plants. In this paper the optimum reciprocating compressor configuration regarding inter-stage pressures, the low suction pressure, non-lubricated cylinder, speed of the machine, capacity control system, compressor valve, lubrication system, piston rod coating, liner material, barring device, pressure drops, rod load, pin reversal, discharge temperature, cylinder coolant system, performance, flow, coupling, flywheel, special tools, condition monitoring (including vibration, thermal and rod drop monitoring), commercial points, delivery and acoustic conditions are presented.