Applying API 617, 8th Edition to Expander-Compressors with Active Magnetic Bearings

TutorialHigh-speed expander-compressors are commonplace in the gasprocessing industry. In recent years, expander-compressors equipped with Active Magnetic Bearings (AMBs) have gained wide acceptance and are now the norm in ethylene plant refrigeration turboexpander applications and increasingly specified for gas-liquid separation. Further improvements in magnetic bearings are simplifying the technology for those responsible to purchase, commission and maintain rotating machines. As well, it is becoming easier to verify that AMB machines comply with accepted design standards. The Eighth Edition of API617, released in September 2014, includes a new annex (Part 1, Annex E) and other material, specifically addressing AMB-equipped machinery. Unlike previous editions which included only informative material, this new material provides a detailed criteria by which AMB designers, purchasers and users can evaluate API compliance or AMB-equipped machines. These design, analysis and test specifications reduce the technical complexity of AMB technology for expander-compressor stakeholders, and contribute to continued growth in the market place. This tutorial will discuss and demonstrate the application of API617, 8th Edition to AMB-equipped expander-compressors from a practical, user-oriented point of view