[.ca] A Practical Guide to Compressor Technology (ISBN 0471727938)

Compressor Performance Monitoring Simplified:
As the Lead Process Reliability Engineer in a 280MBPD refinery I am expected to train our engineering staff on monitoring strategies that will drive down our unplanned event and equipment maintenance costs. Recently I was assigned the responsibility to develop an effective compressor monitoring program to take advantage of turnaround planning and PPM opportunities within the refinery. Since my background is primarily in chemical and utilities operations, I felt that this book could assist me in meeting expectations. I was not disappointed. This book strikes a unique balance between the basic principles of compressor operation, and the more technical issues sought out by experienced mechanical engineers. I give it the highest marks because of the inclusion of chapter 19, which provided not only the information that resolves centrifugal compressor performance monitoring, but has the potential to be used by production personnel for deliberate energy savings in years to come.

A Modern, Comprehensive, Applications-Oriented Text:
The author compiled this 550-page book because there is a real need for users to have a single-source text that clearly illustrates, in hundreds of recent photographs, machines ranging from slow-speed reciprocating to single-shaft, cost-effective, reliable, magnetic bearing-equipped integral-motor centrifugals. It correctly perceives the need to acquaint the modern reliability professional with highly successful 7000 HP multi-stage helical screw machines in dirty gas service and sees fit to highlight such items as leading-edge flexing pivot bearings, dry gas seals, swirl brakes, sophisticated surge avoidance systems, etc. Also included in the text are clear, easy-to-follow examples of performance calculations and graphic shortcut methods for determining upgrade potential and the effects of operating compressors under conditions that deviate from those originally specified.