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Keep shoppingReciprocating Compressors : Principles , Operation & Design
1,910 students
Reciprocating Compressors : Principles , Operation & Design
A complete understanding of construction details and functioning of reciprocating compressors for a successful operation
Created byWR Training
Last updated 11/2025
English
What you'll learn
- Understand the working principles of reciprocating compressors for a successful operation of your plant and piping system
- Understand the construction details of reciprocating compressors for a successful maintenance and troubleshooting (crankshafts, bearings, crossheads, connecting rods, pistons, packings, rings, valves, unloaders...)
- Perform various calculations to size and assess compressor performance (head, discharge temperature, inlet capacity, piston displacement, volumetric efficiency…)
- Understand what affects the selection and design of reciprocating compressors (process conditions, gas characteristics, foundation needs, power supply, interstaging, altitude…)
- Know how you can adapt your compressor capacity to your system demand changes using various techniques (intake valve unloading, clearance pocket, variable volume valve, 5 step control…)
- Understand the concept of pulsation, how it can affect your compressor performance and how to control it according to the API 618 standard
- Know how to size suction and discharge volume bottles to control reciprocating compressor pulsation
- Understand the importance of compressor lubrication
- Discover the various compressor lubrication systems and how they operate (splash, splash and flood, full pressure circulation…)
- Understand the importance of compressor cooling, intercooling and aftercooling
- Discover the various compressor cooling systems and how they operate (series flow, parallel flow, closed systems…)
- Analyze the problems in operation related to compressor valves, pulsation control, capacity control…
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Course content
14 sections • 102 lectures • 5h 24m total length
Requirements
- Some engineering or field knowledge is preferable but not mandatory. All the concepts are explained in depth using an easy to understand language to allow students to build their knowledge from the ground up
- Having attended our "Centrifugal Compressors : Principles, Operation & Design" training course is a plus but not mandatory
- Having attended our "Understand & Predict Your Centrifugal Compressor Performance & Behavior" training course is a plus but not mandatory
Description
Reciprocating Compressors Masterclass: Design, Operation & Maintenance
The Complete Guide to Reciprocating Compressors—Principles, Components, Troubleshooting & Best Practices (API 618)
Reciprocating compressors are critical workhorses in refining, petrochemical, power generation, and process industries. This comprehensive course gives you the technical knowledge and practical insight needed to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient operation of your plant’s reciprocating compressors.
Why Take This Course?
Industry-Relevant Training:
Gain the skills to understand, operate, and troubleshoot reciprocating compressors used worldwide in vital industries.Visual, Hands-On Learning:
Experience in-depth graphics, 3D animations, and cross-sectional views for virtual practical training.API 618 Standards:
Learn best practices based on globally recognized industry standards.
What You’ll Learn
Operating Principles Simplified:
Gas compression fundamentals
Capacity and pulsation control
Compressor lubrication and cooling systems
Mechanical Components Deep Dive:
3D animations and cross-sections of bearings, packings, crossheads, pistons, valves, and more
Functions and operating limits of each component
Operation, Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
Guidelines for safe, efficient operation
Maintenance routines and best practices
Troubleshooting strategies aligned with API 618
Who Should Enroll?
Mechanical, process, and chemical engineers
Plant operators, maintenance technicians, and reliability engineers
Engineering students and recent graduates
Anyone working with compressors in refining, petrochemicals, power, or process industries
Course Features
High-quality video lessons with detailed graphics and immersive 3D animations
Virtual cut-sections for hands-on understanding
Downloadable resources for reference and quick review
Lifetime access: Study anytime, at your own pace
One-on-one instructor support via Udemy Q&A
By the End of This Course, You Will:
Understand reciprocating compressor construction and operation
Identify and explain the function and limits of all major mechanical components
Apply industry best practices for operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Confidently interpret and implement API 618 guidelines in your daily work
Ready to Become a Reciprocating Compressor Expert?
Preview the free course videos and curriculum. Join engineers and professionals worldwide who trust WR Training for clear, practical technical education.
Click “Enroll Now” and master reciprocating compressors today!
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Who this course is for:
- Mechanical, Process and Chemical Engineers
- Product Engineers and Technologists
- Operation, Technical Service and Maintenance Professionals
- Engineers, Consultants and Sales professionals
- Technical professionals responsible for rotating equipment inspection
- Technical professionals responsible for interdisciplinary energy projects