Increase reliability of reciprocating hydrogen compressors

Journal Article · Mon Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1996 · Hydrocarbon Processing

OSTI ID:178356

Leonard, S M ^[1]

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1. Dresser-Rand, Painted Post, NY (United States). Engine Process Compressor Div.

A study was initiated to investigate the factors that contribute to reciprocating compressor reliability. The goal of the study was to establish design, material and application requirements for reciprocating compressors that can operate continuously for three years (25,000 hours) without a shutdown. The study results provided considerable insight into some of the conditions that affect reciprocating compressor reliability. Key factors that contribute to the need for increased hydrogen reciprocating compressor reliability are: new hydrogen plants, continuous catalyst regeneration and improvements in existing catalysts allow processes to run longer between scheduled shutdowns. It is very common for an unscheduled shutdown of a reciprocating compressor in hydrogen service to result in $40,000 to $100,000 per day in lost production revenue (not including additional maintenance and repair costs). Plant processes are being debottlenecked to increase capacities. Maintenance personnel and budgets are being reduced as the industry attempts to save costs by downsizing.

• OSTI ID: 178356
• Journal Information: Hydrocarbon Processing, Journal Name: Hydrocarbon Processing Journal Issue: 1 Vol. 75; ISSN HYPRAX; ISSN 0018-8190
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

08 HYDROGEN
COMPRESSION
ECONOMICS
GAS COMPRESSORS
HYDROGEN
LUBRICATION
MAINTENANCE
OPTIMIZATION
PISTONS
PRESSURE DEPENDENCE
RELIABILITY
SERVICE LIFE
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE
VALVES