Compressor train question

[Indy]

I have a schematic for a compressor train (LP-MP-HP) which are gas turbine driven. On the outlet of the LP system there is a check valve and after this check valve there is the symbol for a piston valve. My question is this piston valve used as an isolation valve ?
Thanks

 

[georgeverghese]

Would be better if you'd post a sketch, but I'd guess you mean an automated valve with a pneumatic ( or hydraulic) operated (piston type) remote operated actuator, more commonly called a remote operated shutdown valve ( abbreviated SDV or ESV or ROV or ABV etc). This is used to automatically isolate the LP stage compressor during a normal or emergency shutdown sequence of the LP compressor. There are many types of these remote operable actuators.

 

[Indy]

Thank you for the reply. Do you know of a common set of procedures for start up/shutdown /esd that I can consult for background research?

Thanks

 

[georgeverghese]

Operating procedures would be specific to the installation, though I would agree there are some parts of this procedure that would be similar for most compression trains. I dont have these procedures, but it is possible to develop these with a set of process drawings, the operating procedures for the GT, the startup / shutdown sequence diagrams for the GT( which the GT vendor would have handed over), and the cause and effect diagrams relevant to the compression train. You should also have some of the installation's process engineering design reports handy( most importantly the process control narratives). Ask your plant manager to provide you with these in case you cannot get these yourself. Many of these reports may be missing in older plants. Operations staff feedback during the development of these procedures is critical.

 

[Indy]

Thanks for this. Do you happen to have a link to an example of a gas turbine driven compressor?

Thanks

 

[georgeverghese]

No. If you are struggling to find a typical template to work off, talk to some of these companies that develop operating procedures. The bulk of the procedure is really about getting the auxiliary systems powered and running : fuel gas, aux lube oil, shaft sealing utilities, air or sea water coolers, lube oil or air or electric power to turbine starter motor, pressurisation of LO rundown tanks etc. The startup for the turbine and compressor proper would in most cases be completely be on auto sequence.

 

[Indy]

Thanks for this. I will do some more research. Could you recommend any good books on mechanical and control aspects of compressors?

Thanks