Centrifugal Compressors in LNG Service
Understand the operating principles, performance limits, major components, auxiliaries and protection philosophy of centrifugal compressors used in LNG and gas-processing facilities.
System context
Compression systems
Technical topic pages show the knowledge scope behind LNG University learning. Course, assessment and credential availability depends on the applicable program.
Relevant roles
Operators · Control-room personnel · Mechanical technicians · Process engineers · Reliability engineers
Prerequisites
Gas properties · Basic rotating equipment
Knowledge level
Intermediate technical coverage with system and operational context.
Learning outcomes
What this topic is intended to help you understand
- Explain how a centrifugal compressor develops head and pressure.
- Interpret the meaning of a compressor operating map and operating envelope.
- Recognize the purpose of seals, bearings, lubrication, recycle and protection systems.
Technical scope
Equipment, concepts and terminology
- Impellers and diffusers
- Casings and shafts
- Bearings
- Dry gas seals or other seal systems
- Lube-oil systems
- Drivers
- Performance curves
- Head, flow and efficiency
- Surge and choke
- Recycle systems
Operating context
How the topic connects to plant operation
- Startup permissives and readiness concepts
- Loading and unloading
- Normal parameter monitoring
- Response to changing suction conditions
- Shutdown and trip awareness
Safeguards and controls
Protection and risk-control context
- Anti-surge protection
- Vibration and axial-position protection
- Seal-system monitoring
- Overspeed and driver protection
- High-temperature and pressure trips
Technical learning does not replace site procedures, OEM documentation, engineering calculations, permits, supervision or facility-specific authorization.
Engineering documents
Documents commonly connected to this subject
- Compressor map
- P&ID
- Cause & effect chart
- Trip matrix
- OEM manual
- Performance data sheet