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This Advanced Reciprocating Compressor Analysis course teaches attendees fault analysis and advanced troubleshooting using pressure, vibration, ultrasound, and crank angle measurements. Advanced diagnostic tools are covered in this class to deal with repeat failures associated with mechanical natural frequencies and pulsation driven failures. This course is intended for maintenance technicians and engineers who have significant experience with data collection and have performed reciprocating compressors analysis for a minimum of 3 years.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of two or more years of mechanical technology or mechanical engineering at an accredited college or technical school is highly recommended for attendees. Attendees shall be able to use a scientific calculator and be familiar with the operation of personal computers.

Intermediate Reciprocating Compressor Analysis – Level II class and a working knowledge of compressor mechanics and thermodynamics. Understanding of the fundamentals of the multiple data types utilized including shaft referenced speed and crank angle, pressure, vibration, ultrasound, and temperature. Minimum of 36 months of experience with reciprocating compressor analysis..

Certification Exam: The exam is included in the cost of the course. 50 questions, 2-hour time limit, closed book, passing score is 70% correct.

Course Objectives

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

• Understand advanced thermodynamic principles and calculations used for analysis
• Apply reciprocating compressor machine theory and operation for advanced troubleshooting
• Be able to set up advanced data types in portable analyzers and industry software
• Utilize advanced data formats including angular velocity, cascade, bode, orbits, and shaft centerline plots for signature analysis and fault recognition
• Troubleshoot pulsation and mechanical natural frequencies
• Analyze faults in ancillary rotating equipment using spectral and time waveform analysis
• Provide reports of fault diagnosis using industry software and custom reports
• Understand the requirement for setting up and maintaining and reciprocating compressor condition monitoring program