Page 335 - Reciprocating Compressors Operation Maintenance

32.O Reciprocating Compressors: Operation and Maintenance

TABLE 5-2 (CONTINUED)
TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Trouble Probable Cause(s) Remedies

High Discharge 1. Excessive ratio on cylinder 1 . Repair valves/rings
Temperature due to leaking inlet valves
or rings on next higher stage
2. Fouled intercooler/piping 2. Clean intercooler/piping
Reduce lube rates
3. Leaking discharge valves 3. Repair/replace parts
or piston rings
4, High inlet temperature 4. Clean intercooler
5. Fouled water jackets on 5. Clean jackets
cylinder
6. Improper lube oil and/or 6. Use correct lube oil and correct
lube rate lube rate
Frame Knocks 1. Loose crosshead pin, pin 1 . Tighten/replace loose parts
caps or crosshead shoes
2. Loose/worn main, crank- 2. Tighten/replace bearings, check
pin or crosshead bearings clearance
3. Low oil pressure 3. Increase oil pressure, repair leaks
4. Cold oil 4, Warm oil before loading unit
Reduce water supply to oil cooler
5. Incorrect oil 5, Use proper oil
6. Knock is actually from 6. Tighten piston nut, etc.
cylinder end
Crankshaft Oil Seal 1 . Faulty setting of oil 1. Set baffle
Leaks baffle and slinger
2. Clogged drain hole 2. Clear obstruction
Piston Rod Oil 1 . Worn scraper rings 1 . Replace rings
Scraper Leaks 2. Scrapers incorrectly 2. Assemble
assembled
3. Worn/scored rod 3. Replace rods
4. Improper fit of rings to 4. Replace rings
rod/side clearance

Noise in Cylinder 1 . Loose piston 1 . Disassemble and tighten piston
2. Piston hitting outer head 2. Adjust piston rod for proper
end clearance
3. Loose crosshead lock nut 3. Tighten nut
4. Broken or leaking valve(s) 4. Repair/replace parts
5, Worn or broken piston 5. Replace rings
rings or expanders
6. Valve improperly seated/ 6. Replace gasket and reassemble
damaged seat gasket properly
7. Free air unloader plunger 7. Replace worn or broken unloader
chattering spring(s)