Centrifugal and Dynamic Compressors

Overview

Centrifugal and axial compressors are among the most critical and expensive machines in gas plants, refineries, petrochemical complexes, LNG facilities and pipeline compressor stations. They often have no spare, so a single failure can stop production, cause flaring and lead to very high repair costs. Surge, fouling, seal failures, bearing problems, rotor vibration and process upsets are common challenges. Engineers and technicians who understand compressor aerodynamics, mechanical design, control and condition monitoring can operate these machines efficiently and detect problems before they lead to costly failures.

This course provides a practical understanding of centrifugal and axial compressors and their operation, maintenance and troubleshooting. Participants learn compressor thermodynamics and aerodynamics, performance curves, the effects of gas composition, speed and inlet conditions, and the phenomena of surge and stonewall. The course covers impellers, diffusers, casings, rotors, bearings, dry gas seals and lube oil systems, as well as anti-surge control, capacity control and protection systems. It also explains performance monitoring, vibration and rotor dynamics, fouling and washing, start-up and shutdown, overhaul and inspection practices, and the troubleshooting of common mechanical and process problems.

Objectives

• Explain compressor thermodynamics, aerodynamics and performance curves
• Describe the effects of gas composition, speed and inlet conditions
• Understand surge, stonewall and the design of anti-surge control systems
• Describe impellers, casings, rotors, bearings, dry gas seals and lube systems
• Monitor performance, vibration and rotor behaviour to detect problems early
• Apply start-up, shutdown, washing and overhaul practices correctly
• Troubleshoot common mechanical and process problems in compressors

Who should attend

Training methodology

The course combines explanation of compressor principles with real performance curves, operating data, vibration reports and overhaul records. Participants calculate head, efficiency and power, plot operating points on performance maps, review anti-surge control settings and analyse vibration and seal data to diagnose problems. Photographs and videos of compressor internals, damaged impellers and seal failures support learning. Troubleshooting cases from gas plants and pipeline stations are solved in small groups. Each day ends with a short quiz and discussion of compressor issues at participants' plants.

Programme outline

Dates and fees

Certificate

Frequently asked questions