Reciprocating, Screw and Positive Displacement Compressors

Overview

Reciprocating, screw and other positive displacement compressors are widely used in oil and gas production, gas gathering, refineries, hydrogen services, instrument air systems and refrigeration. They handle high compression ratios and varying gas compositions, but they also have many wearing parts, such as valves, piston rings, packing and bearings, that need regular attention. Valve failures, packing leaks, pulsation, vibration, liquid carry-over and lubrication problems are common causes of unplanned shutdowns and costly repairs, so skilled operation and maintenance are essential for reliable service.

This course provides a practical understanding of reciprocating, screw and other positive displacement compressors. Participants learn compression principles, indicator diagrams, capacity and power calculations, and the main components of reciprocating compressors, including frames, crossheads, cylinders, valves, pistons, rings and packing. The course covers capacity control methods, pulsation and vibration, cylinder and frame lubrication, cooling and gas conditioning. It also explains oil-flooded and dry screw compressors, rotary vane and lobe compressors, condition monitoring techniques such as valve temperature and pressure-volume analysis, overhaul practices, clearances and tolerances, and troubleshooting of common mechanical and process problems.

Objectives

• Explain positive displacement compression principles and indicator diagrams
• Calculate capacity, power and discharge temperature for reciprocating machines
• Describe reciprocating compressor components and their functions
• Apply capacity control and manage pulsation and vibration problems
• Describe screw, vane and lobe compressors and their applications
• Use condition monitoring to detect valve, ring and packing problems
• Plan overhauls and troubleshoot common compressor problems

Who should attend

Training methodology

The course combines explanation of compressor principles with real data sheets, indicator diagrams, condition monitoring reports and overhaul records. Participants calculate capacity and power, interpret pressure-volume curves and valve temperature trends to detect faults, review pulsation study results and prepare overhaul checklists with clearances and tolerances. Photographs and samples of failed valves, rings and packing help participants recognise damage patterns. Troubleshooting cases from gas gathering and refinery hydrogen services are solved in groups. Each day ends with a short quiz and discussion of compressor issues at participants' sites.

Programme outline

Dates and fees

Certificate

Frequently asked questions