Fluid Machinery Excellence: Operating and Maintaining Pumps, Compressors, and Turbines

Introduction:

In industries such as oil refineries, gas production facilities, and power generation, fluids and the machinery that move them—pumps, compressors, and turbines—play a critical role. This Fluid Machinery, Operation, and Maintenance of Pumps and Turbines course explores the importance of fluid mechanics in the design and operation of these machines, which are essential for efficiently transporting liquids, gases, or mixtures containing solids.

As fluid machinery has evolved, many of the previous limitations concerning pressure, temperature, and fluid types have been overcome. However, these advancements bring new mechanical, hydraulic, operational, and economic challenges. A deep understanding of fluid behavior within machines and piping systems is essential for effective design, installation, and operation. Real-world examples will highlight common misconceptions and guide participants in optimizing fluid machinery performance.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of fluid machinery operation, maintenance, and management, focusing on fluid mechanics principles relevant to chemical processing and power generation sectors. Participants will gain expertise in machinery selection and receive practical training in turbine and pump operation and maintenance.

Objectives:

At the end of the Fluid Machinery, Operation, and Maintenance of Pumps and Turbines course, participants will be able to:

• Appreciate the technical characteristics and limitations of different types of fluid machinery.
• Understand the design principles for fluid machinery in accordance with international standards.
• Select and size appropriate machinery for specific industrial applications.
• Diagnose and address inefficiencies in machinery function.
• Implement best practices and troubleshooting techniques for issues like cavitation, surge, and erosion.

Training Methodology:

• PowerPoint lectures
• Problem-based learning
• Small and large group discussions
• Role play activities
• Method demonstrations
• Projects

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Centrifugal Pumps

• Review of centrifugal pump design and usage
• Key structural elements of centrifugal pumps
• Calculations for pump suction pipe placement
• Methodology for centrifugal pump computation in oil depots
• Maintenance and troubleshooting techniques

Unit 2: Positive Displacement Pumps

• Designs of reciprocating and rotary positive displacement pumps
• Specifications and usage of different pump types
• Best practices for pump installation and operation
• Inspection, testing, and maintenance processes
• Problem-solving strategies for pump-related issues

Unit 3: Centrifugal Compressors

• Basic configuration and design of centrifugal compressors
• Classification by construction type and application area
• International standards for compressor development
• Main components and performance evaluation
• Recommendations for reliable operation

Unit 4: Positive Displacement Compressors

• Reciprocating and rotary types of positive displacement compressors
• Criteria for selecting economical compressors
• Controlling compressor loadings, speed, and safety
• Special-purpose non-standard compressors
• Installation, use, servicing, and inspection guidelines

Unit 5: Industrial Gas Turbines

• Performance and classification of gas turbines
• Essential parts and design attributes
• Comparison of radial vs. axial-flow turbines
• Combustor efficiency regarding fuels and emissions
• Measures to reduce turbine deterioration
• Vibration monitoring, diagnostics, and repair strategies