There are many doubts about the risk / reward relat ion when it comes to ordering tests involving high pres sure centrifugal compression systems. There are different tests that can be classified in this category, namely Full Load, Full Pressure, Full Den sity, Full Speed or a combination of those along with the ASME PTC 10 Type 1 tests. Normally these tests are carried out as a Complete Unit Test (String Test). This paper aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the various types of tests. The codes from API and ASME do not detail the requirements of full pressure tests. The installati on, the procedure, and the acceptance criteria are subject of agreement between vendor and purchaser. Therefore the importa nce of a meticulous test description during the bid phase is al o discussed. In this paper, the various types of full load tests will be presented and along with a discussion on their capa bilities to detect a variety of problems. Some issues which oc curred during full load tests and at site will be describe d. Based on test characteristics and at the related cases, recommend atio s are made when ordering full pressure tests along with considerations regarding the return of investment o f these tests.

Review of Centrifugal Compressors High Pressure Testing for Offshore Applications

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ANALYSE DES ETANCHEITES ANNULAIRES A BAGUE FLOTTANTE ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Directeur de These : Mihai ARGHIR Co-Directeur de These : Olivier BONNEAU ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Soutenue le 4 Mars 2011 Devant la commission d’examen

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DOCTEUR DE L'UNIVERSITE DE POITIERS Faculté des Sciences Fondamentales et Appliquées (Diplôme National - Arrêté du 25 avril 2002) ECOLE DOCTORALE SCIENCES POUR L'INGENIEUR Spécialité : Génie Mécanique, Productique, Transport

The subject of rotordynamics and instability problems in high performance turbomachinery has been a topic of considerable industry discussion and debate over the last 15 or so years. This paper reviews an original equipment manufacturer's history of development of concepts and equipment as applicable to multistage centrifugal compressors. The variety of industry user compression requirements and resultant problematical situations tends to confound many of the theories and analytical techniques set forth. The experiences and examples described herein support the conclusion that the successful addressing of potential rotordynamics problems is best served by a fundamental knowledge of the specific equipment. This in addition to having the appropriate analytical tools. Also, that the final proof is in the doing.

David E. Shemeld

Papers

A History of Development in Rotordynamics-A manufacturer's Perspective