ABSTRACT
Compressor Selection project involved replacing old reciprocating compressors (total of 6 numbers in sets of 2 for 3 locations) with suitable new machines. The machines were used to compress high molecular weight–associated gases from near atmospheric pressure to about 7 barg (about 105 psig). The project execution stage was completed without major hiccups with only a slight delay. When the first compressor unit was commissioned, there was the problem of frequent compressor shutdowns due to lube oil filter choking. The lube filter system was duly cleaned out, and the unit was started up again. But the problem persisted. The same issue surfaced during commissioning of the remaining compressors in other locations. Most importantly, the gas compositions given in the FEED and contract did not mention any liquid content in the gas. The breakthrough came when one of the members of the committee had a chat with an operator who was an old-timer in the existing reciprocating compressor unit.
