Pulsation Study » Reciprocating Compressor

The objective to perform this study is to avoid problems with vibration, performance, reliability, and flow measuring error caused by acoustical interaction between the compressor and the relevant piping system.
Pulsation study procedure has been determined as per API 618 guideline.

Here, INERTANCE shows the brief procedure for related study of reciprocating compressor as follows;

Design Approach 1

Design Approach 1 is to perform the empirical pulsation suppression device design using proprietary and empirical analytical techniques to meet line side pulsation levels and the maximum pressure drop based on compressor normal operating condition.

Design Approach 2

Design Approach 2 is to perform the acoustic simulation and piping restraint analysis, which include the control design through the use of pulsation suppression devices and proven acoustic techniques. In case the detail design of piping system is finalized, the acoustic simulation has to be performed for system reliability. Then, the separation margin based on mechanical natural frequency has to be checked to avoid the mechanical resonance.

Design Approach 3, API 618

Design Approach 3 is to perform the mechanical analysis with forced mechanical response analysis in addition to Acoustic study. The forced mechanical response analysis for compressor cylinder as well as associated piping systems has to be performed as results of previous analysis results.