API 618 Pre-Check of Pulsation Dampeners
Reciprocating compressor Pulsation & Vibration Analyses
API 618 Pre-Check of Pulsation Dampeners
Why: To permit pulsation dampeners to be manufactured while the piping lines are still unknown or information not yet available for the purpose of API 618 analysis.
When: Once compressor characteristics and process conditions have been defined, the preliminary check of the pulsation dampeners can be carried out.
How: A plane wave acoustical model of the compressor, valve assembly and pulsation dampener is calculated for an endless pipe configuration. Throughout the analysis the following aspects are reviewed and, when required, a design optimisation is recommended:
- Pressure pulsations at cylinder flange
- Pressure pulsations at line side flange
- Pressure drops & compressor performance
- Unbalanced forces
- Compressor valves
Pulsation dampener design can then be completed preventing unexpected costs and delays later in the project.
