Max Temp Rating on PD Compressor Discharge Valves

[lastone]

I have been told that the API guideline on maximum temperature for PD compressor discharge valves in H2 compression service is 275 deg F. Could any of you please answer if this is correct, and what is the reason for this max temperature rating?

 

[Montemayor]

Lastone:

Refer to thread1036-98565 to get a definition of what you are looking for and some explanations. I do not believe you have stated what you mean in a correct manner. The temperature of the discharge valves is not the same as the measured H2 gas discharge exiting the discharge nozzle of the compressor (I presume you are referring to API 618 on Reciprocating compressors).

Is this information that you were told by others or what you've read in API 618? If the latter, cite the edition and paragraph(s) of reference. I believe this post would get better/more responses if it were posted in the compressor forum.


Art Montemayor
Spring, TX

 

[lastone]

Art, thank you very much for directing me to the other thread. That is an excellent explanation and exactly what I was looking for. I really enjoy reading your comments and have learned much from them. I have not been able to access API 618 yet, due to lack of time. But I will read it. For clarification on my original vague question, I do actually have temperature indication in my valve discharges. I also have the combined discharge temp from the gas exiting the valves on both the crank and head ends of the machine. I do not have a temperature issue, my question was primarily for my own knowledge, and to help me properly document in my alarm justification summary why I have the alarms set where they are. I just was not sure if the reasoning for the API limit was due to metal growth, lube-oil breakdown, or some exotic hydrogen blistering mechanism. Now I know, and thanks again.