Page 361 - Reciprocating Compressors Operation Maintenance

346 Reciprocating Compressors: Operation and Maintenance

tern for which the equipment was designed. Preventive maintenance pro-
grams provide schedules for inspection of the components at strategic
opportunities. A complete program should be developed from data that
include the following:

1. The process that the compressor serves
2. The conditions in the immediate vicinity of the machine
3. The atmosphere in the general geographic location
4. The user's operating schedule

The above requirements indicate that a preventive maintenance pro-
gram for specific equipment should be tailored to the process involved.

A compressor maintenance program should be developed for each
major component or assembly. If followed, the program will assure total
compressor reliability and eliminate unscheduled downtime of the
machine. The program should be based on the following premises,
which, if not fulfilled, will cause the program to be ineffective and not
achieve the desired result of no unscheduled downtime.

1. Major components or assemblies are in "like-new condition." This
does not mean that all new parts or components must be purchased
and installed, but the existing parts or assemblies must be rebuilt
and restored to "like-new," updated specifications. In some cases,
new parts or assemblies will have to be obtained.
2. Training programs to update knowledge and skills on compressor
maintenance and component reconditioning are developed and are
ongoing for the maintenance personnel responsible for the compressor.
3. Procedures are developed for inspection and rebuild of all major
components.
4. Proper and adequate records are maintained on the condition of
components and on occurrences and locations of failures. These are
necessary to allow a logical approach to solutions of problems and
to determine what components will require reconditioning or
replacement at the next scheduled shutdown.
5. Proper and adequate tooling is available to allow the maintenance
personnel to properly service the compressor and perform the main-
tenance required.