Condition Monitoring, Troubleshooting and Reliability in Rotating Machinery

8Addressing Reciprocating Compressor Piping Vibration Problems: Design Ideas, Field Audit Tips, and Assessment Methods

By Robert X. Perez

Anyone who has worked around reciprocating compressors has probably noticed piping around reciprocating compressors vibrating (Figure 8.1). Due to the presence of gas pulsations generated by reciprocating compressors and the mechanical nature of piping, piping vibration will always be present. However, with regular field inspections around reciprocating compressors, most piping vibration issues can be detected and addressed before they can lead to piping failures.

Process piping performs a vital role in processing and fluid transport facilities by tirelessly transporting gases and liquids between different stages of processes or from point “A” to point “B.” However, piping is often forgotten due to its apparent passive nature; it only garners attention if failure occurs due to corrosion or fatigue. Corrosion is an electro-chemical mechanism related to metal and fluid properties, whereas fatigue is a mechanical process related to excessive cyclic motion that results in damaging stress levels. This section addresses the risk of piping failure due to vibration-related fatigue.

All piping associated with machinery vibrates due to the shaking forces that machines generate. Some forces are transferred to the piping via the machine flanges and mounts, whereas others are fluid borne. Fluid borne pressure pulsations generated by machines can result ...