Title

INVESTIGATION OF SUDDEN DAMAGE OF HEAVY-DUTY TURBO AIR CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR DUE TO TRIBOLOGICAL ISSUES: CASE STUDY.

Authors

ANOZE, A. A.; AL-QRIMLI, H. F.; ALJIBORI, H. S. S.; AL SHEKHLY, M. N. A.; ABDULLA, O. I.

Abstract

This study investigates the sudden failure of a CENTAC air compressor in an Iraqi oil refinery. The compressor, driven by a steam turbine, experienced a severe crash in the exterior, and upon examination, it was found out that the interior parts (rotors and gears) were also damaged. The investigation revealed that the main cause for the crash was the fracturing of the bull gear due to surge disturbances and inefficient lubricant. Through site visits and examinations, the study provides valuable insights into the operation and troubleshooting of these centrifugal multistage high-speed compressors. The findings of this study have important implications for the oil refinery industry and they offer practical recommendations for preventing similar failures in the future.

Subjects

AIR compressors; CENTRIFUGAL compressors; STEAM-turbines; PETROLEUM refineries; PETROLEUM industry; COMPRESSORS

Publication

Journal of the Balkan Tribological Association, 2023, Vol 29, Issue 4, p591

ISSN

1310-4772

Publication type

Academic Journal