What are the causes of cylinder vibration in reciprocating compressors?
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Currently, one of the reciprocating compressors in the unit is experiencing severe vibration, which often leads to shutdowns due to vibration-related interlocks. The medium used is hydrogen, and this vibration has also caused the bolts of the cylinders to loosen. What are the possible causes of this phenomenon?
There are many reasons for this; just pick any book, and you’ll find many answers. It should be noted that in books where there are few examples, the inlet and outlet valves of reciprocating gas compressors are very important; they are also a cause of vibration. Uneven air intake leads to uneven forces, which in turn causes vibration.
Could it be caused by pipeline resonance? How are the compressor pulsations calculated? It’s possible to check that.
I think the main issues are likely an improper installation of the inlet and outlet pipelines, as well as weak fixation of the pipe supports. Another possibility is severe wear of the support rings inside the cylinder, resulting in large fluctuations of the piston within the cylinder (though this shouldn’t be the primary cause)
This situation can be considered from the following aspects: 1. System fluctuations； 2. Pipeline resonance, inadequate reinforcement, or issues with the pipeline design (such as too many bends, etc.). ） ； 3. Mechanical issues.
There are many reasons for vibration, and it takes time to identify the root cause.
1. Is the outlet buffer tank too far away from the exhaust valve, failing to buffer the airflow and thus causing vibration in the cylinder block? 2. Check whether the fit between the cylinder liner and the cylinder block is too loose. 3. Verify whether the sealing surface of the cylinder head can press tightly against the cylinder liner; if it cannot do so, the cylinder liner may shift axially
Check the gap between the large-end tile and the small-end tile, as well as the crosshead gap