Ariel Packager Standards Manual

Packager Standards Manual 06/26/2023
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Partial Scope Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Ariel Contact Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Packager Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Guaranteed Performance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Performance Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Skid Design and Fabrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Package Design Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Head End Support Required Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Head End Support Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Process Piping Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Scrubber Design and Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Piping Design, Installation, and Package Construction Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Allowable Forces and Moments at Cylinder Flanges of Ariel Reciprocating Compressors . . . . . . . 15
Pulsation Bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Pulsation Bottle Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Discharge Bottle Support Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Relief Valves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Gas Coolers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Driver Power Rating, Coupling, and Drive System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Driver Power Rating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Electric Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Torsional Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Coupling and Drive System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Initial Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Lubricant Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Frame Oil System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Oil Strainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Oil Pump & Regulating Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Oil Cooler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Oil Temperature Control Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Oil Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 1

Compressor Pre-lube System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Compressor Pre-lube for CNG Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Auxiliary Frame Oil Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Oil Heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Oil System Cleanliness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Frame Oil System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Frame Lubricant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Oil Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Oil Sampling Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Cylinder and Packing Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Oil Supply Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Force Feed Lubricator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Auto-Relief Valve (ARV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
ARV Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Rupture Disk Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Pressure Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Distribution Blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Over-Pressure Pin Indicator (Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Fluid Flow Monitor and Cycle Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Balance Valves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Check Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Flushing Oil (Optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Common Oil Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Independent Oil Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Cylinder Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Rate Calculation Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Cycle Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
System Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Purging the Force Feed Lube System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Force Feed Lubricator Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Lubricant Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Lubricant Base Stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Petroleum-Based Lubricants (Mineral Oils) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Synthetic Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Polyalphaolefins (PAO) - Synthesized Hydrocarbons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Organic Esters - Diesters and Polyolesters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Polyalkylene Glycols (PAG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Lubricant Formulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
R&O Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Compounded Cylinder Oils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Used Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Liquids in Gas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Cooled Packing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Coolant System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Packing and Distance Piece Vent Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Vent and Drain Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Piping Manifold Size Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Atmospheric Vent System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Flare Vent System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Vent System for Close-Coupled Packing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Purge and Vent Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Purged Vent System for Long Two-Compartment Distance Piece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Non-Lube Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Purged Vent System for Short Two- Compartment Distance Piece . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Purged Vent System for KBE:K:T:C:D:F:Z:U Single Distance Piece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Purged Vent System for Single Distance Piece with Sweep Purge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Monitoring a Purge and Vent System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Capacity Control Device Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Variable Volume Clearance Pocket Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Pneumatic Capacity Control Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Fixed Volume Clearance Pockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Suction Valve Unloaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Installation Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Ariel Supplied End Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Main Bearing, Thrust Bearing, and Packing Case Temperature Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Thermocouples - J (Iron-Constantan) or K (Chromel-Alumel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Resistance Temperature Devices (RTD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Force Feed Lubrication System Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Shutdown Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Proximity Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Vibration Protection (Packager Supplied) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Vibration Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Velocity Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Accelerometer Transducers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Impact Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Package Assembly and Run Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Cylinder Removal and Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Cylinder Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Cylinder Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Start-Up, Service, and Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Compressor Manual Content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Hold-down Bolting to Resist Shaking Forces and Couples in Reciprocating Compressors. . . . . . . . . . 87
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Warranty Notification - Installation List Data and Start Up Check Lists for Reciprocating Compressors.
91

Ariel Warranty Administration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Preserving Ariel Reciprocating Compressors for Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Preservation Materials and Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Preservation Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Commissioning Compressor to Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Protection of Non-Lube Compressor Cylinders and Distance Pieces with VCI Powder for Shipment. 98
Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Material and Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Safety Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Literature Selection for Reciprocating Compressor Customer Manuals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Soft Foot and Top Plane Flatness Checks for Proper Main Bearing Bore Alignment in Reciprocating
Compressors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Soft Foot Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Soft Foot Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Top Plane Flatness Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Leveling Limits for Stationary Reciprocating Compressors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Dry Sump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Attachment of Wiring, Tubing, or Pipe Clamps to Ariel Compressor Cylinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Alternate Attachment Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Latest Manual Revisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
06/26/2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Introduction
A successful reciprocating gas compression Partial scope situations:
package blends precision component selection, 1. The user purchases a complete compressor
fabrication, sales, and service. Ariel works with system or “packaged” compressor unit and
the packager to lead the industry in performance chooses to use their own construction group
as well as reputation. This standard is a minimum to install it. In this case, the packager must
requirement for packaging quality. Ariel guide the user based on package characteris-
encourages packagers to exceed this standard tics. At a minimum, guidance should include:
with the finest quality packages. The packager
• Studies required for foundation design
must conform to this standard even if it exceeds
• Anchor bolt layout and elevations for off
end-user specifications. skid equipment and piping
A Packager refers to any party incorporating an • Anchor bolt, spherical washer, and nut
Ariel product in the manufacture and/or requirements
assembly of a compression system. The packager • Pre-grout alignment requirements
must ensure that the selected compressor is • Grouting best practices
compatible with the application and properly • Direct involvement in commissioning
integrated into the gas compression system. 2. The user purchases an incomplete compres-
sion system without key components such as
NOTE: This edition of the Packager Standards is interconnecting piping and vessels, instru-
based on the current design, build, and practices for mentation, drivers, control systems, or
reciprocating compressor packages. These standards
coolers. At a minimum, packager guidance
may not apply to previously built equipment and are
subject to change without notice. Depending on the should include:
source, these standards may not be controlled • Applicable Ariel Packager Standards
copies. requirements
• Correct sizing
• Applicable code requirements
Partial Scope Projects • Anchor bolt layout and elevations for off
skid equipment and piping
A partial scope project is when any entity other
• Anchor bolt, spherical washer, and nut
than the packager completes any part of the
requirements
“package” or compression system assembly.
• Pre-grout alignment requirements
Regardless of the scope offered, the packager • Grouting best practices
retains the obligation to “package”, install, and • Oversight and verification of compliance
commission the compressor in accordance with to Ariel Packager Standards
this standard and good industry practice. At the • Direct involvement in commissioning
bid phase, the packager must clearly define the
scope of supply, identify areas of concern, and
inform the purchaser of partial scope
requirements.

Packager Standards Manual – Introduction 06/26/2023
Ariel Contact Information

Contact Telephone Fax E-Mail
Ariel Response Center 888-397-7766 (toll-free USA & 740-397-1060 arc@arielcorp.com

Canada) or 740-397-3602
Ariel Parts Sales (International) 740-393-5054 parts@arielcorp.com
Order Entry 740-397-3856 -
Ariel World HQ 740-397-0311 740-397-3856 info@arielcorp.com
Technical Services fieldservice@arielcorp.

com
Ariel Response Center Technicians or

Switchboard Operators answer telephones
during Ariel business hours, Eastern Time - USA
or after hours by voice mail. Contact an
authorized distributor to purchase Ariel parts.
Always provide Ariel equipment serial number(s)
to order parts. The after-hours Telephone
Emergency System works as follows:
1. Follow automated instructions to Technical
Services Emergency Assistance or Parts
Emergency Service. Calls are answered by
voice mail.
2. Leave a message: caller name and telephone
number, serial number of equipment in ques-
tion (frame, cylinder, unloader), and a brief
description of the emergency.
3. Your voice mail routes to an on-call represen-

tative who responds as soon as possible.

Applications
Packager Responsibilities e. Define the duty cycle of compressor oper-

ation for its impact on compressor and
1. Utilize the most current version of the Ariel package component selection and
Performance Program for compressor selec- design.
tion, performance evaluation, pricing, and f. Confirm capacity control sequence and
access to other application information and limitations of the specific capacity control
data. devices, including actuation pressure
2. Develop complete familiarity with all requirements for pneumatically actuated
devices.
compressor frame and cylinder design limita-
tions, such as speed, power requirements, g. Confirm operating conditions for valve
design.
rod load, maximum allowable working pres-
• Define the full operating range. Valve
sure, discharge temperature, capacity
lift can impact power usage, rod load,
control arrangements, balance, and lubrica- and discharge temperatures. Valve lift
tion. is a function of the application as well
as the range of operating conditions.
3. Properly price each compressor with all
Wider fluctuations in speed, pres-
options to meet the design service. For ques- sures, and gas composition can
tions, contact Ariel. require low lift valves for acceptable
valve life. Contact Ariel with the full
4. When evaluating existing equipment, obtain
definition of the operating range and
equipment serial numbers. Check with Ariel application type for valve lift review.
for design ratings of older equipment as they
• Once installed, confirm that the unit is
may differ from current ratings. operating within the expected oper-
5. Understand and evaluate the full operating ating conditions. If not, valve
springing and lift should be
range for each service.
confirmed. Contact Ariel with the unit
a. Identify and define the design point serial number and actual operating
conditions and all possible alternate conditions/range of conditions for
conditions. valve component confirmation.
b. Define the gas analysis, including off 6. For any special application, see the Ariel
conditions, to address any special Application Manual. For questions or details,
requirements for condensation or mate- contact the Ariel Application Engineering
rials.
Department. Special applications include:
c. Confirm all operating conditions,
including off conditions, are within the a. Suction pressures below 10 psig (0.7
limitations defined by the Ariel Applica- barg).
tion Manual and Performance Software. b. Gas with a specific gravity less than 0.35
d. Define the site conditions, including or greater than 1.5.
ambient temperature and elevation, as
these can impact performance predic-
tions.

Packager Standards Manual – Applications 06/26/2023
c. Applications such as air compression, required to validate this guarantee. At this

under-balanced drilling, natural gas guarantee design point, performance is based on
compression for vehicle fuel, refinery and gas conditions at the cylinder flanges free of
petrochemical process systems, acid gas, pulsation effects. Rated capacity and power can
etc.
be guaranteed to a tolerance of ± 3% for:
d. Drive systems such as turbines, belt drive
systems, variable speed motors, etc. 1. Specific gravity between 0.50 and 0.80 (14.48
e. Non-lubricated compressor cylinders. to 23.17 molecular weight)
f. Special unloading or control systems. 2. Suction pressure greater than 10 psig (0.7
g. Wet gas (natural gas produced along with barg)
crude petroleum in oil fields or from gas- 3. Discharge pressure less than 2500 psig (172
condensate fields; it contains methane,
barg)
ethane, propane, butanes, and some
higher hydrocarbons such as pentane and 4. Compression ratio greater than 1.8
hexane). See Table: Cylinder/Packing Oil
Requirements for Various Gas Stream 5. Compression ratio less than 4.0, else suction
Components. VE > 50%)
h. Discharge pressures above 2500 psig
(172.4 barg). Rated capacity and power can be guaranteed to
a tolerance of ± 6% for conditions outside those
i. Special unloading configurations,
including single-acting, non-acting, stage listed above.
deactivation, and blow thru.
NOTE: Performance predictions are not guaranteed
7. The Ariel Performance Program calculates for unloading configurations including single-acting
gas properties based on either: or non-acting cylinder, deactivated stage, or blow
thru operation.
• The gas analysis components entered.
• The specific gravity entered, assuming a
gas composed of typical natural gas
components.
Performance Testing
Non-typical natural gas mixtures require the 1. Testing for guaranteed performance must
entry of the complete gas analysis to yield proper occur within 90 days of commissioning. If the
compressor performance results. design point cannot be reached in this time
frame, a mutually agreed upon alternate
point will be tested.
Guaranteed Performance 2. In questions of capacity delivered or horse-
Obtain all guaranteed performance in writing power consumed by an Ariel compressor,
from Ariel. Ariel guarantees a single design point check these common discrepancies: inlet
as calculated by the current version of the Ariel pressure drop, excessive interstage pressure
Performance Program for each compressor drop, leaking bypass valves, volume decrease
manufactured. All other performance is due to liquid drop out, gas analysis different
"expected" and not guaranteed. A gas analysis is than the quoted gas analysis, compressor
and driver mechanical condition, driver fuel
gas consumption, etc.

Packager Standards Manual – Applications 06/26/2023
3. If doubt still remains, conduct a performance

test. Ariel reserves the right to conduct or
supervise any performance field test. All
comparisons to predicted performance will
comply with this document. Ariel is not
responsible for test costs.

Skid Design and Fabrication

A skid/package mechanical analysis is required compliance (see Appendix G). The mounting
to provide a properly engineered system to the method depends heavily on packager ability
end-user. The Packager or a third party conducts to duplicate skid flatness at installation.
the analysis for all unproven driver/compressor Methods to mount the frame to the skid
combinations. This is especially critical for include:
projects such as:
• Grouted sole plates
• Any first of a driver and/or compressor • Grout chocks
combination.
• Careful rail or full bed grouting
• Any first of a frame class.
• Welded steel chocks
• Offshore platforms.
NOTE: Flatness and parallelism can be diffi-
• FPSO installations.
cult to achieve using this method. It is recom-
• Pile-mounted skids. mended to machine steel chocks after
welding to avoid angular soft foot, which
NOTE: The Packager must retain any supporting
requires the use of step shims or re-
calculations made by the Packager and/or consul-
machining in the field. Step shims create
tant. The Packager must consider dynamic as well as
point loading and will not provide adequate
static forces. Combined Rod Load and Unbalanced
contact between the foot and chock.
Forces and Couples data are available within the Ariel
Performance Program. • Threaded adjustable chocks
NOTE: Though threaded adjustable chocks
have been used with success under smaller
frame classes, they are not permitted under
Package Design Requirements JGC:D:F:Z:U:B:V and KBE:K:T:C:D:F:Z:U:B:V
1. The skid/pedestal should transmit shaking frames. Keep in mind the compressor frame is
forces to the foundation and provide to be the stationary component of the align-
adequate structural support with proper tie- ment train.
down under piping, and other critical compo- 4. Provide compressor hold down bolting in
nents. accordance with ER-26 (see Appendix A). Bolt
2. Provide sufficient skid stiffness and strength lengths extending through only the
so the compressor mounts flat without compressor foot and I-beam flange are typi-
bending or twisting the compressor frame, cally insufficient to prevent loosening.
crosshead guide, or cylinder. All frame and
5. Support crosshead guide feet not only to
crosshead guide mounting points should be
provide vertical support, but also to prevent
supported by full depth cross members.
horizontal movement perpendicular to the
3. When installing equipment to the skid, piston rod. Attaching any support to the deck
ensure all mounting points are flat and plate alone is insufficient. Ariel recommends
parallel to compressor feet to avoid angular A-frame supports attached directly to a full
and parallel soft foot and facilitate ER-82 depth skid member. Ariel offers crosshead

Packager Standards Manual – Skid Design and Fabrication 06/26/2023
guide supports for JGW and larger frames. compartment (L2) crosshead guide exten-
Use of threaded adjustable chocks to support sions, use the outboard feet under the guide
the crosshead guides requires a careful extension to support the guide. Leave feet
mechanical study to validate their use. under the guide unsupported.
6. JGH:E:K:T 2-throw frames with pipeline 8. Provide sufficient skid stiffness to prevent
cylinders, all JGC:D:Z:U and KBK:T:C:D:Z:U twisting due to torque reaction between the
2-throw frames, and all JGF and KBF driver and compressor. Provide enough stiff-
frames require a full width compressor ness so shipment or relocation minimally
pedestal (wide enough to include the guide affects driver/compressor alignment. Always
support mounting feet) to control unbal- check and correct coupling alignment after
anced forces and couples. Ariel recom- package relocation.
mends a reinforced concrete-filled pedestal
9. Every installed compressor package has
of common height and use of Ariel crosshead
several mechanical natural frequencies
guide supports.
(MNF), usually in scrubber/bottle/cylinder
7. Each crosshead guide deflects an amount system groupings. Each frequency is a func-
relative to the weight of the cylinder mounted tion of the stiffness and mass of the entire
on that throw. See the Ariel Performance system, including the foundation or deck.
Program for estimated crosshead guide foot
If the system first MNF is within the operating speed
deflection. This estimate accounts only for range or twice the operating speed range of the pack-
cylinder weight. Account for the weight of age, resonant vibration occurs. Ensure the first MNF of
the skid package mounted on the user foundation or
attached bottles and piping if correcting after
deck is either less than 0.8 times the minimum com-
bottle mounting. For JGM:P:N:Q and JG:A pressor operating speed, or more than 2.4 times the
frames, cylinder weight will not deflect the maximum operating speed. Coordinate with the foun-
dation or deck designer.
guide, but bottle weight still requires consid-
Although not recommended, to tune a major cylinder
eration. After mounting the frame and MNF between 1 and 2 times the operating frequency,
torquing the frame mounting bolts, shim the maintain the cylinder MNF above 1.5 times operating
crosshead guide to achieve zero deflection frequency. The high excitation of 1 times compressor
forces combined with low level amplification up to 1.5
when the guide support bolts are tightened. times the operating frequency can cause excessive vi-
Loosen the guide support bolts, lift the bration.
cylinder, then add shims equaling the deflec- Forward maximum/minimum speed and normal oper-
ating speed range to the end user along with a caution
tion value as calculated by the Ariel Perfor-
to examine off-skid structure, piping, instrumentation,
mance Program to the shim pack under the and equipment for resonance.
crosshead guide to level it. Tighten guide 10. Provide skid beams with gussets at anchor
support bolts per appropriate Maintenance & bolt locations. Anchor bolt locations should
Repair Manual. Out of spec crosshead also be supported internally by cross
running clearances may indicate incorrect members.
guide shimming. Except for KBK:T:C:D:F:Z:U
frames, shim crosshead guides between the 11. Well-designed crosshead guide supports
guide feet and the support; shim provide high axial (parallel to the crankshaft)
KBK:T:C:D:F:Z:U guides under the support. and vertical stiffness that usually eliminate
On JGZ:U frames equipped with long two- the need for head end cylinder supports

Packager Standards Manual – Skid Design and Fabrication 06/26/2023
(HES). If a mechanical analysis predicts inter- Head End Support Required

ference with a cylinder/guide combination
MNF in the operating speed range, HES may Features
be recommended. Use HES to supplement • HES must be adjustable to avoid cylinder
well-designed crosshead guide supports. stress. Adjust HES with the compressor at
operating temperature.
• The mechanical analysis provider should • HES must be very stiff vertically and as stiff as
provide detail drawings of the cylinder possible parallel with the crankshaft.
support of appropriate stiffness to shift • HES must not be excessively stiff horizontally
the MNF. (parallel with the rod). They are not intended
• It is a good practice to design provisions to restrain rod load forces.
for HES into a skid, even if HES are not • Attach the vertical support of the HES to a
recommended. It is relatively inexpensive full-depth skid beam flange so it is directly
to fabricate and correctly install HES if supported by the web of the beam. Gussets
considered in the design phase. are required between the skid beam flanges
• HES require careful adjustment and may directly beneath the HES vertical supports.
hinder maintenance access. Improperly
adjusted HES can cause high stress on NOTE: Supports that use gas containment bolting to
cylinders and fabricated process piping attach to the cylinder require Ariel approval.
that can result in failure.
• HES are also recommended for vertical
support of cylinders weighing over 10,000 Head End Support Adjustment
lbs.
1. At initial start-up, configure head end support
• Some cylinders have a small pad on the
bottom of the head end of the cylinder. to allow for thermal growth to prevent
This can be used when only vertical guide/cylinder distortion as the package
support is required. warms up.
• New pipeline and large bore cylinders 2. With the system heat-soaked for at least 24
have an external bolt circle specifically hours and immediately after adjusting bottle
designed for mounting HES. Consult the supports (see "Discharge Bottle Support
cylinder outline drawings for details. On
Adjustment"), adjust head end support to
cylinders without the external bolt circle
feature, Ariel recommends "clamp" style hold the current heat-soaked cylinder posi-
supports. Clamp-style supports grip the tion. If using shims for adjustment, fill air gap
flange of the head end head or clearance and account for shim crush when torqued.
pocket. For clamp style HES, it is critical to
machine the inside diameter of the clamp 3. Use a magnetic base dial indicator mounted
to a very tight tolerance to provide as as close to the support as possible to ensure
much contact area as possible. no additional “lift” is imposed and there is no
pull down due to shim crush when head end
supports are torqued.
4. Check and record crosshead running clear-

ances and piston rod runout after all adjust-
ments. These checks confirm
uncompromised guide/cylinder alignment.

Process Piping Systems
Scrubber Design and 5. Ariel requires nozzle reinforcement pads or

long weld neck flanges.
Installation Requirements
1. Liquids and solid particulates are incom-
pressible and can negatively impact Piping Design, Installation,
compressor performance and reliability. and Package Construction
Typically, each stage of compression requires
an upstream scrubber to remove free and
Requirements
entrained liquids from the gas. It is the 1. During package fabrication, ensure no
responsibility of the packager to engineer this grinding dust, weld slag, sand, or rain enter
system appropriately for the specific applica- the compressor. When welding on the skid,
tion. The scrubber requires a high liquid level attach ground connection close to the weld
protection system and an automated drain and never to the compressor.
system. In case of abrasive particle carry- 2. Design and install piping without low points
over, contact an experienced filtration that could collect liquids between the
system manufacturer for assistance. A debris scrubber and cylinder; liquid slugging can
sample may be required to determine its result in compressor damage.
properties, origin, and appropriate filtering
3. Design and install piping so it does not distort
techniques.
cylinders and/or crosshead guides. To
NOTE: Non-intercooled, dry gas stages of confirm the piping imposes no distortion,
compression may not require liquid separation,
check crosshead-to-guide clearance after
but provisions must be made to remove lubri-
cating oil, if applicable. connecting the installed unit to vessels and
piping.
2. Design and construct scrubbers in accor-
dance with good engineering practice and a. No forces or moments should exist on
industry standards for two-phase separators cylinder flanges during assembly. Prying
to align flange bolt holes or “drawing
and pressure vessels. ISO-13631 provides
down” to pull piping into position is unac-
scrubber specifications. Provide full diameter ceptable. Before torquing, flange bolts
skirts with a thickness equal to or greater should thread by hand with no flange
than the vessel wall thickness (minimum 1/2 contact. Flange gap without torque must
inch (13 mm)). not exceed 0.030 inch (0.76 mm) for one
gasket or 0.060 inch (1.52 mm) for two
3. Support scrubbers with full-depth structural gaskets with an orifice.
members. b. See Table: Allowable Forces and Moments
4. Position all scrubber attachments such as at Cylinder Flanges for maximum permis-
sible forces and moments acting on
relief valves, sight glasses, instrumentation,
cylinder flanges due to thermal loads.
drain lines, and tubing close to the scrubber
and support as required. Bullseye style sight
glasses are recommended.

Packager Standards Manual – Process Piping Systems 06/26/2023
c. It is impractical to perform thermal anal- into the scrubber. Design recycle line so as
ysis on a compressor with the cylinders not to disrupt scrubber operation. Consider
considered rigid. The Ariel bore deflection both capacity control and startup recycle
limit is 0.001 inch per inch (0.001 mm per
flows for recycle line sizing.
mm) of bore diameter, which may be used
as a cylinder deflection limit. 6. Provide a blow-down vent to safely relieve
d. Most unacceptable cylinder deflection system pressure for maintenance. Provide a
comes from severe pipe/bottle misalign- back-flow prevention check valve for any
ment or improper guide preloading. It is vent or blowdown line connected to a
rare for thermal loads alone to cause
common vent or flare header.
significant deflection, but they can exac-
erbate these problems. Unacceptably 7. Support and clamp piping in accordance with
high flange forces can cause: good engineering practice. Directly attach
• Low crosshead-to-guide clearance supports to, or directly support them by a
• Low piston-to-bore clearance structural member of the skid or foundation.
• Low crankshaft thrust clearance Support from deck plate or unistrut clamps is
• High rod runout insufficient.
• Possible cylinder knock
8. Use gusseted band clamps with Fabreeka or
e. Most piping and nozzle failures are due to
an equivalent material between the clamp
piping vibration. It is far better to design
“on skid” bottles, pipe, and bracing as and pipe to prevent fretting and corrosion.
stiff as possible to prevent mechanical Some engineering study providers may
resonance at low frequencies where exci- dictate metal-to-metal contact. Do not use U-
tation forces are highest, than to design a bolt style clamps.
“soft” piping system to allow thermal
growth for “on skid” piping. Consider 9. Ensure piping rests on the support and is not
thermal forces if using long runs of “off pulled down by the clamp. Shim if needed.
skid” piping. “Off skid” piping better
tolerates thermal stress limiters (thermal 10. Do not block access to the analyzer drive
loops, flexible bracing, etc.) because connection at the crankshaft centerline on
pulsation and other shaking forces are the crankcase auxiliary end. Leave a space 6
typically attenuated. Design piping with inches (152 mm) in diameter and 14 inches
sufficient size to provide equal flow to (356 mm) long centered at the crankshaft
cylinders in parallel. centerline for analyzer connections.
4. Design piping in accordance with good engi-
11. Provide visual access to crankcase oil level
neering practice and industry standards
sight glass and distribution block cycle indi-
regarding pressure and temperature rating,
cators.
settle out pressures, flow velocity, pressure
drop, and material compatibility with the gas 12. Prior to commissioning, install an inlet gas
stream. debris cone strainer with 100 mesh per inch
(150 micron) screen and perforated metallic
5. A gas recycle line for startup, supplied by
backing in a pipe spool between the inlet
either the packager or end user, is required
scrubber and first stage cylinder(s) suction
for each package. Connect recycle line
flange. Monitor inlet debris strainer by differ-
upstream of scrubber rather than directly

ential pressure and service it before differen- suction connections as one flange and the two
tial pressure approaches screen collapse discharge connections as one flange. Follow the
pressure. To protect against screen collapse, sign notation indicated in Figure: Axis
use high differential pressure alarm/shut- Orientation. If the resultant value of a force or
down switches. To protect the compressor moment is negative, compare its absolute value
cylinder(s), mechanically and chemically against its limit.
clean all piping and vessels thoroughly.
Keep compressor flange forces and moments as
Damage results if any construction or manu-
low as possible by suitable compensation of
facturing debris enters the compressor valves
piping forces. Maximum force and moment limits
or cylinders.
depend on compressor size.
For compressor flanges pre-loaded cold to

Allowable Forces and Moments minimize loads after thermal expansion to
at Cylinder Flanges of Ariel operating conditions, both cold and operating
Reciprocating Compressors conditions must satisfy the limits.
See Note 3a in "Piping Design, Installation, and

Figure: Axis Orientation Package Construction Requirements".
1 Parallel to Crankshaft
2 Parallel to Piston Rod
3 Vertical
Figure: Axis Orientation shows force and moment

definitions for a cylinder flange. These limits
apply separately to suction and discharge
flanges. For cylinders with two suction and
discharge flange connections, treat the two

Table: Allowable Forces and Moments at Cylinder Flanges

About the About the About the
Parallel to Parallel to
Vertical (Fy) Piston Rod Crankshaft Vertical Axis
Frame Piston Rod Crankshaft
lb (N) Axis (Mz) lb x Axis (Mx) lb x (My) lb x ft
(Fz) lb (N) (Fx) lb (N)
ft (N•m) ft (N•m) (N•m)
KBC:D:F:B:V:Z: 3,300 (15,000) 1,600 (7,100) 2,500 (11,000) 3,300 (4,500) 2,500 (3,400) 1,600 (2,200)
U
JGC:D:F, 1,600 (7,100) 800 (3,600) 1,200 (5,300) 1,600 (2,200) 1,200 (1,600) 800 (1,100)
KBE:K:T
JGH:E:K:T 1,300 (5,800) 700 (3,100) 1,000 (4,400) 1,300 (1,800) 1,000 (1,400) 700 (900)
JG:A:M:P:N:Q: 900 (4,000) 400 (1,800) 600 (2,700) 900 (1,200) 600 (800) 400 (500)
R:J, KB100
Pulsation Bottles 3. Design pulsation bottles without traps. Traps

allow liquids to accumulate resulting in liquid
1. High acoustical pulsation can increase frame,
slugging. Provide taps for drains and instru-
cylinder, gas piping, and equipment vibra-
ments on the bottles. Nozzles protruding into
tions. An acoustical study will determine if
the bottle should be slotted to prevent liquid
the package requires pulsation bottles when
accumulation.
not already required by customer specifica-
tions. An acoustical study will determine if 4. Install taps for temperature and pressure
acoustical or mechanical resonances exist monitoring as close to the compressor
that require correction. When analyzing cylinder as possible. Install the discharge
acoustical pulsation responses, consider temperature shutdown probe in the 1/2" NPT
single-acting cylinder and all cylinder load tap in the cylinder discharge nozzle provided
steps. Single-acting cylinders can present the by Ariel.
worst case scenario for acoustical analysis.
5. Position all bottle attachments such as relief
High acoustically driven vibration can result
valves, sight glasses, instrumentation, drain
from single-acting cylinder operation when
lines, and tubing close to the bottle and
not considered. Contact Ariel for information
support as required.
beyond that of the Ariel Performance
Program. 6. Construct pulsation bottles connecting two
2. Design and construct pulsation bottles in or more cylinders so as not to strain cylinder
accordance with good engineering practice flange connections or distort cylinders.
and industry standards for either piping 7. Ariel requires nozzle reinforcement pads.
and/or pressure vessels.

8. If a mechanical/acoustical analysis predicts e. The attachment point to the guide should

high bottle shaking forces, engineered bottle utilize a minimum 8:1 bolt stretch by use
supports and clamps may be recommended. of a spacer.
Bottle supports may not be required on some f. A brace welded to a re-pad is the
units if the Packager meets the following preferred attachment to the bottle.
Clamp style braces can also be effective,
conditions.
but they must solidly contact the bottle.
a. Piping and bottles assembled to cause no g. Removal of the lifting eye bolt can be diffi-
strain on cylinder flanges during cult due to the use of Loctite 262. Heat
compressor operation. helps release the bond, but take care not
b. Crosshead guide mounting feet firmly to damage lube system components and
supported and properly aligned. crosshead babbitt.
c. Piping properly tied down. h. Some newer large bore cylinders have an
d. Scrubber, piping, or any other skid extra bolt circle outside the head for head
attachment vibration at a natural end support attachments. The upper bolt
frequency prevented during compressor holes on these cylinders can also be used
operation. for suction bottle supports, if beneficial.
9. Avoid suction bottle bracing if possible in the

design phase. If bracing is required to comply
Pulsation Bottle Installation
with mechanical design requirements or to 1. Check P&ID for proper flange gasket rating
fix an existing field issue, consider manifold and size. Check for proper orifice size, if
system bracing first (i.e. bottle to bottle applicable.
bracing). Knee braces are acceptable as an 2. Place discharge bottle on its adjustable
alternate method with the crosshead guide supports in the lowest position. Ensure both
lifting eye connection as the preferred cylinder and bottle flange sealing surfaces
compressor attachment point. Consider the are clean and undamaged.
following: 3. Install new gaskets and orifices as required
for the application.
a. Brace for resonance tuning. Bracing for
forced response motion control may 4. Adjust the supports to raise bottle to within
cause excessive stress on the guide and 0.125 inch (3 mm) of cylinder flange.
bottle. CAUTION
b. Review bottle/cylinder nozzle stresses
No forces or moments should exist on cylinder flanges
before bracing. This is common during during assembly. Prying to align flange bolt holes or
the mechanical design process, but it is “drawing down” to pull piping into position is
also important in a retrofit situation. unacceptable. Before torquing, flange bolts should
c. If forces in the support exceed 5% of rated thread easily by hand with no flange contact.
rod load, Ariel Technical Services must
review the application. 5. Lubricate and install discharge flange
d. Brace resonance can be a detrimental fasteners per ER-63 or Ariel Torque App.
side effect. If braces are designed in Confirm all bolts turn completely by hand
conjunction with a mechanical analysis, and are not flange-bound.
avoid brace resonance when possible. 6. Gradually tighten fasteners until contact is
achieved between gaskets and flanges.

7. Set suction bottle. 4. Remove indicators. Use a locking mechanism

8. Lubricate and install suction flange fasteners to prevent support bolting from loosening or
per ER-63 or Ariel Torque App. Confirm all repositioning if the supports do not contact
bolts turn completely by hand and are not the bottle when the equipment cools.
flange-bound. 5. Adjust head end cylinder supports (if
9. Incrementally tighten all bolts to 25%, 50%, applicable). See “Head End Support
75%, then 100% of full torque. At each Adjustment”.
increment, torque in a criss-cross sequence
and tighten repeatedly as required for
consistent torque on all bolts. On the 100%
Relief Valves
pass, tighten in a criss-cross pattern until no 1. Provide relief valves on the initial stage
bolt moves on the final pass. suction and the discharge of every stage of
10. Loosen discharge bottle adjustable supports compression, set to operate in compliance
in preparation for piping fit and start-up. with ISO-13631. Install discharge relief valves
upstream of each individual gas cooler
section.
Discharge Bottle Support
NOTE: Consider all possible types of equipment
Adjustment failure or poor operation and protection of piping
systems when selecting relief valve locations and
Properly adjust bottle supports in accordance
settings.
with the start up checklist and the maintenance
schedule. Ariel recommends the following 2. Ensure adequate relief valve settings as well
procedure: as cylinder and component MAWP's for
process settleout pressures during shut-
1. With the system heat-soaked for a minimum
down.
of 24 hours, shut down the compressor.
Loosen the bottle supports and head end 3. Pilot operated relief valves must include a
supports (if applicable) so there is no contact back-flow protection feature when
between the bottle and support.
connected to a common vent line.
2. Place a magnetic base indicator on a
structurally stiff skid member as close as
possible to the bottle support. Place the
CAUTION
indicator needle at the bottom center of the
bottle. Multiple supports on a single bottle The compressor cylinder may or may not be the system
require an indicator at each support. component with the lowest pressure rating. Set relief
valve based on the lowest rated connected equipment.
3. Tighten the bottle supports only until there is
a positive movement on the indicator: 0.003
to 0.005 inch (0.076 to 0.127 mm) maximum Gas Coolers
lift.
1. Determine if the package requires gas cooling
if not already required by customer specifica-
tions. Consider ambient conditions, antici-
pated operating conditions, geographical
location, and customer requirements.

2. The discharge gas temperature predicted by

the Ariel Performance Program is the
expected temperature at the compressor
cylinder discharge flange. Account for any
heat loss between the compressor cylinder
and cooler inlet flanges and size the cooler
accordingly.
3. Account for cooler fan power consumption

when engine driven.
4. Cooler design and construction must comply

with good engineering practice and industry
standards for heat exchangers.
5. Consider associated liquid condensates in
the cooler design. This includes both heat
load and gas flow from top to bottom through
the cooler sections.
6. Some applications require automated

temperature control to avoid excessive
condensates and dense phase above critical
point. Applications may include heavy gases,
CO2, acid gas, etc.

Driver Power Rating, Coupling, and Drive System
Driver Power Rating Electric Motors

1. The motor power rating for electric motor-
driven units, including service factor (if any), Table: Recommended Minimum Motor Shaft
must be a minimum 110% of the greatest Diameter, in (mm)
power required for any specified operating Frame Shaft Dia. (Y & Z)
conditions. Operating conditions include JG/2, JGM:P:N:Q:A/2, KB100 2.625 (66.68)
start-up, off-design process variations, and
JG/4, JGA/4 2.750 (69.85)
peak loading conditions. Consider potential
JGA/6, JGR:J/2/4 3.750 (95.25)
excessive horsepower due to external gear
and coupling losses along with process gas JGJ/6, JGH:E:K:T/2/4, 5.000 (127.00)
KBE:K:T/2
vessel, piping, and/or orifice losses. See
specific electric motor application require- JGE:K:T/6 5.625 (142.88)
ments under "Torsional Analysis" KBE:K:T/4 6.000 (152.40)
2. Size internal combustion engine rated power JGC:D:F/2/4, KBK:T/6 6.500 (165.10)
for the greatest power required for any of the
JGC:D:F/6, KBC:D:F/2/4 7.500 (190.50)
compressor operating conditions plus acces-
sory power for the specific location. Do not KBZ:U/2, JGZ:U/2 7.250 (184.15)
exceed the engine manufacturer's rating KBZ:U/4, JGZ:U/4, KBC:D:F/6 8.000 (203.20)
criteria for continuous duty service. This KBZ:U/6, JGZ:U/6 8.500 (215.90)
criteria specifies the amount of load and
KBB:V/4/6, JGB:V/4/6 9.125 (231.78)
speed to apply without interruption after
considering site altitude, temperature, and
1. Inform motor manufacturers that recipro-
fuel gas composition.
cating gas compressor torque varies consid-
erably in one revolution. An Ariel compressor
is not a constant-load (uniform torque)
device, even if driven at a constant speed. In
severe service, peak torque may vary ±200%
of the mean, repeating as often as three times
per revolution. Torque peaks and torque
reversals can cause motor shaft fatigue
failure, especially with a keyway. Ensure
motor shaft strength suitability for all oper-
ating conditions of intended service. Larger
Ariel compressors require robust motors with
large diameter, keyless shafts for long life and
successful performance.

Packager Standards Manual – Driver Power Rating, Coupling, and Drive System 06/26/2023
2. When designing the motor rotating assembly, 5. Analyze the drive train to ensure vibratory
electric motor manufacturers must account stresses in the motor rotor are acceptable
for dynamic (alternating) torques generated and that current pulsation falls below motor
by the driven equipment as well as the mean or switch gear limits.
torque.
6. Consult motor vendors about applications
3. The motor stub shaft must be only as long as with high vibratory torque at the motor. High
needed to fully insert in the appropriate vibratory torque may cause harmonic distor-
coupling hub and ensure complete contact. tion to the motor power, which can cause low
power factors and apparent increased power
4. The motor stub shaft and the section thru the
consumption to the motor. Drive end
drive end bearing should equal or exceed the
flywheels are effective to reduce vibratory
compressor drive stub diameter. For keyless
torque on the motor.
compressor drive stubs, an equivalent diam-
eter keyed motor shaft may not be sufficient 7. If a motor requires replacement, revise the
(see Figure: Motor Shaft to Drive Stub torsional analysis with the new motor
Coupling). For flanged crankshafts (JGE:K:T/6 mass/elastic data and verify its acceptability.
and KBB:V/4/6), use the main bearing diam-
eter for the compressor shaft size (x).
Figure: Motor Shaft to Drive Stub Coupling
1 Bearing Journal 3 Typical Motor Shaft 5 Coupling Shoulder Stop

2 Coupling Hub Engagement 4 Compressor Drive Stub 6 Full Coupling Hub Engagement
Torsional Analysis • Gearboxes.

• Engines not previously coupled to a specific
A torsional analysis is required to provide a compressor frame.
properly engineered system to the end user free • High torque reversals.
of any possible torsional concerns. Ariel does not
conduct torsional analyses. The Packager or a
third party conducts the analysis for all unproven
drive train combinations or loading, such as:
• All electric motors, fixed or variable speed.
• Steam or gas turbines.

Contact Ariel Application Engineering for unit 6. The dynamic model with appropriate exci-
specific information or a list of possible tations of all governing torque curves
engineering firms that can perform the analysis, applied.
but there is no restriction to only these
7. Dynamic deflections, torques, and shear
companies. A torsional analysis should include:
stresses determined for the entire dynamic
1. A comprehensive report, including an execu- model.
tive summary, introduction and purpose,
analysis limitations, reference documents, 8. Verification that vibratory torque of the
computation results, discussion, conclu- compressor crankshaft falls within limits set
sions, and appendices (tables, figures, and forth in ER-83.
other data). 9. An industry-recognized fatigue analysis of the
2. A complete dynamic model of the electric major portion of the electric motor shaft
motor shaft, coupling, and compressor utilizing a modified Goodman Diagram.
formulated in terms of lumped inertia and
10. Verification that auxiliary end velocity falls
massless springs based on normal engi-
within limits set forth in ER-83.
neering practice and judgment to determine
motor shaft flexibility from manufacturer 11. An on-site torsional vibration measurement
supplied information - all included in a report at equipment start up to confirm the analysis.
appendix. Data should also include
computed significant natural frequencies of
torsional vibration, along with their modal Coupling and Drive System
deflected shapes and a speed-frequency 1. The maximum coupling size for each Ariel
interference diagram. compressor frame model is predetermined
by most coupling manufacturers or torsional
3. Governing torque-effort curves identified
providers. The crankshaft stub shaft length
from expected compression service and rank-
shown on the outline drawing matches a
ordered for excitation potential with each
standard industry coupling size. Do not use a
curve harmonic content specified in terms of
coupling hub design that does not
Fourier Coefficients. Consider high volume
completely engage or overhangs the
clearance devices and single acting cylinder
compressor stub shaft length unless it is thor-
operation when analyzing torsional
oughly checked by torsional and stress anal-
responses. Single acting cylinders can
yses.
present a worst case scenario due to a more
dynamic torque effort curve. 2. For all direct drive units (engine or motor),
use a torsionally rigid, flexible disc coupling
4. A written assessment of natural frequency similar to the Thomas or Formsprag types,
placements acceptability relative to exci- unless thoroughly checked by torsional anal-
tation potentials. ysis.
5. If required, a forced, damped dynamic model 3. Do not use couplings that grow and shrink
assembly that includes estimates of damping axially due to torque loading.
at various locations in the motor and
compressor.

4. See the coupling manufacturer instruction 6. Perform an on-site torsional vibration

manual for specific coupling installation and measurement on compressors driven by vari-
operation requirements. able speed electric motors. Test through
design speed ranges and anticipated cylinder
5. Determine the appropriate interference fit
unloading steps as soon after start-up as
between the coupling hub and the
possible to confirm theoretical analysis
compressor shaft to transmit torque at all
results.
operating conditions. The torque load is
considered a "heavy" or "heavy alternating"
load. Ensure the coupling hub and shaft are Initial Maintenance
clean and dry before installation. If a shrink
disk or other externally applied interference Comply with Ariel Packager Standards and the
mechanism is used to ease hub removal, the compressor Start Up Check List. Adhere to all
packager and component vendor must verify items before and after start-up.
the coupling can transmit the required For cold alignment, account for the difference in
torque without slipping or embedding into thermal growth height between the compressor
the compressor stub shaft. and driver. Table: Thermal Growth of
Compressors lists compressor centerline height
change based on 6.5 x 10-6/°F (11.7 x 10-6/°C).
Table: Thermal Growth of Compressors
Initial THERMAL GROWTH, INCH (MM)

Frame JGM:P:N JGH:E:K
Temp. JGZ:U,
JG:JGA :Q, JGJ:R :T, JGC:D:F KBC:D:F JGB:V KBB:V
°F (°C) KBZ:U
KB100 KBE:K:T
0 (-18) 0.011 0.010 0.013 0.019 0.024 0.023 0.027 0.033 0.030
(0.29) (0.26) (0.34) (0.48) (0.62) (0.59) (0.68) (0.85) (0.76)
10 (-12) 0.011 0.010 0.012 0.018 0.023 0.022 0.025 0.031 0.028
(0.27) (0.25) (0.32) (0.45) (0.58) (0.56) (0.64) (0.79) (0.71)
20 (-7) 0.010 0.009 0.012 0.017 0.021 0.021 0.023 0.029 0.026
(0.26) (0.23) (0.30) (0.42) (0.55) (0.53) (0.60) (0.75) (0.67)
30 (-1) 0.010 0.008 0.011 0.015 0.020 0.019 0.022 0.027 0.025
(0.26) (0.21) (0.28) (0.39) (0.51) (0.49 (0.56) (0.70) (0.63)
40 (4) 0.009 0.008 0.010 0.014 0.019 0.018 0.020 0.025 0.023
(0.22) (0.20) (0.26) (0.37) (0.48) (0.46) (0.52) (0.65) (0.59)
50 (10) 0.008 0.007 0.009 0.013 0.017 0.017 0.019 0.023 0.021
(0.20) (0.18) (0.24) (0.34) (0.44) (0.43) (0.48) (0.60) (0.54)
60 (16) 0.007 0.007 0.009 0.012 0.016 0.016 0.017 0.021 0.019
(0.19) (0.17) (0.22) (0.31) (0.40) (0.40) (0.44) (0.54) (0.49)
70 (21) 0.007 0.006 0.008 0.011 0.014 0.015 0.016 0.020 0.018
(0.17) (0.15) (0.20) (0.28) (0.37) (0.37) (0.40) (0.50) (0.45)

Initial THERMAL GROWTH, INCH (MM)

Frame JGM:P:N JGH:E:K
Temp. JGZ:U,
JG:JGA :Q, JGJ:R :T, JGC:D:F KBC:D:F JGB:V KBB:V
°F (°C) KBZ:U
KB100 KBE:K:T
80 (27) 0.006 0.005 0.007 0.010 0.013 0.013 0.014 0.018 0.016
(0.15) (0.14) (0.18) (0.25) (0.33) (0.34) (0.36) (0.45) (0.40)
90 (32) 0.005 0.005 0.006 0.009 0.011 0.012 0.012 0.016 0.014
(0.14) (0.12) (0.16) (0.23) (0.29) (0.31) (0.32) (0.40) (0.36)
100 (38) 0.005 0.004 0.005 0.008 0.010 0.011 0.011 0.014 0.012
(0.12) (0.11) (0.14) (0.20) (0.26) (0.28) (0.28) (0.35) (0.31)
110 (43) 0.004 0.004 0.005 0.007 0.009 0.010 0.009 0.012 0.011
(0.10) (0.09) (0.12) (0.17) (0.22) (0.25) (0.24) (0.30) (0.27)
120 (49) 0.003 0.003 0.004 0.006 0.007 0.009 0.008 0.010 0.009
(0.09) (0.08) (0.10) (0.14) (0.18) (0.22) (0.20) (0.25) (0.23)
130 (54) 0.003 0.002 0.003 0.004 0.006 0.007 0.006 0.008 0.007
(0.07) (0.06) (0.08) (0.12) (0.15) (0.19) (0.16) (0.21) (0.19)
To ensure parallel and concentric drive train

NOTE: Thermal growth numbers were calculated
alignment, position connected equipment so
using 170°F (77°C) as the frame operating tempera-
ture. Initial frame temperature is the temperature of misalignment is as close to zero as possible.
the frame during cold alignment. Obtain driver Limits for Total Indicator Reading (TIR):
thermal growth predictions from the driver manufac- • Maximum rim (outside diameter), (parallel)
turer. misalignment is 0.005 inch (0.13 mm).
• Face (angular) misalignment must be within
Figure: Angular Coupling-Hub Face Alignment 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) for hub diameters up to
17 inches (430 mm). For hubs greater than 17
Limits
inches (430 mm), use the following formula:
Hub O.D. x 0.0003 = max angular misalign-
ment. See Figure: Angular Coupling-Hub Face
Alignment Limits.
For laser alignment tools:
• Maximum parallel misalignment is 0.0025
inch (0.064 mm).
• Maximum angular misalignment is 0.0003
inch/1 inch (0.03mm/100mm).
NOTE: If laser is adjusted to display TIR, use TIR limits.
Center the coupling between the driver and

compressor so it does not thrust or force the
crankshaft against either thrust face.

After running a new, relocated, reconfigured, or

overhauled compressor for 24 hours, shut down,
vent the gas system, and perform the following
maintenance:
1. Perform a hot alignment check within 30
minutes of shutdown as described above.
Adjust discharge bottle supports and head
end supports, if applicable.
NOTE: To avoid cylinder distortion, lift discharge
bottles only 0.003 to 0.005 inch (0.08 to 0.13 mm)
using the supports.
2. Check fastener torque on gas nozzle flanges,
valve caps, cylinder heads, piston rod
packing flanges, crosshead guide hold down,
frame hold down, crosshead guide to
cylinder, and crosshead guide to frame
bolting, if applicable. See the appropriate
Maintenance & Repair Manual.
3. Repeat torque check after 750 hours. Recheck

fasteners found loose in any of these intervals
after an additional 750 hours. If loosening
continues, contact your package supplier
immediately.

Lubrication
Proper lubrication is vital to compressor Lubricant Terminology
operation and requires special attention in
package design. Two independent systems VISCOSITY - Measures fluid resistance to flow. It
lubricate a compressor; the frame oil system and decreases with increasing temperature. In this
the force feed system. The frame oil system is a document, viscosity is expressed in centistokes
pressurized circulating system that supplies oil (cSt). Proper viscosity is the most important
to the crankshaft, connecting rods, and aspect of compressor lubrication. Figure:
crossheads. The force feed system is a high- Viscosity vs. Temperature Graph of Different
pressure injection system that supplies small Lubricants illustrates viscosity differences
quantities of oil to the piston rod packings and between base stock types.
piston rings.
Viscosity can increase with oxidation or
In a compressor, lubrication: contamination by a liquid of higher viscosity or
decrease with contamination by hydrocarbon
1. Reduces friction - Decreases energy
consumption and heat generation. gas condensate or other liquid of lower viscosity.
Oil degradation increases viscosity, unless it is
2. Reduces wear - Increases equipment life and
multi-viscosity oil (such as SAE 10W40). In multi-
decreases maintenance costs.
viscosity oils, the viscosity improvers degrade,
3. Removes heat from the system - Cools not the base oil itself.
moving parts and maintains working clear-
VISCOSITY INDEX - Indicates the magnitude of
ances.
viscosity change with respect to temperature.
4. Prevents corrosion - Generally provided by The higher the viscosity index, the less viscosity
additives rather than the base lubricant. decreases as temperature increases.
5. Seals and reduces contaminant buildup - POUR POINT - Specifies the lowest temperature
Improves gas seal on piston and packing at which oil flows. It is important in cold weather
rings, and flushes away contaminants from applications and in cylinder and packing
moving parts. lubrication with cold suction temperatures.
6. Dampens shock - Reduces vibration and FLASH POINT - Specifies the lowest temperature
noise and increases component life. at which oil vaporizes to create a combustible
mixture in air. If exposed to flame or high
Many types of oils exist, some petroleum based,
temperature, the mixture flashes into flame and
others synthetic. Each oil exhibits different
then extinguishes itself. This is important in high
characteristics that suit it for a specific
temperature applications where oil may mix with
application.
air.

Packager Standards Manual – Lubrication 06/26/2023
Frame Oil System Components

Figure: Standard Frame Lube Oil Schematic
Oil Connections (see Ariel outline drawing for details) System Components
A1 Packager connection from oil pump 1 Y-Strainer
A2 Packager connection to oil filter 2 Compressor driven oil pump (with safety relief valve for
A3 Oil connection from compressor crankcase (oil sump) pressure regulation, or in models with a separate regulating
A4 Lube oil compressor inlet connection to gallery tube -Oil valve (7), for relief)
flows to crankshaft main bearings, connecting rod bearings, 3 Thermostatic control valve, 170°F (77°C) nominal rating -
crosshead pins, and bushings. required
A5 Pressure regulating valve return connection to oil sump 4 Pre-lube oil pump - required (shown with oil heating circuit,
(when applicable) when applicable), or auxiliary pump.
A6 Filter vent return connection to oil sump (when applicable 5 Optional duplex oil filter
on some models) 6 Oil filter
A7 Oil tubing connections from frame gallery tube to top and 7 Pressure regulating valve with overflow return to oil sump
bottom of crosshead guides to lubricate crossheads. (Z:U:B:V only)
A8 Compressor crankcase oil drain (oil sump drain) 8 Oil cooler - required
A9 Pre-lube/recirculation/heater connections (4) 9 Check valve
10 Heater (when applicable).
11 Temperature indicator
12 Pressure indicator (dirty side)
13 Pressure indicator (clean side)
14 Pressure indicator/shutdown connection

Figure: Optional Dry Sump Frame Lube Oil Schematic - Typical
Oil Connections (see Ariel outline drawing for details) System Components
A1 Packager connection from compressor-driven oil pump 1 Separate lube oil reservoir (oil sump) - required, vent reser-
A2 Packager connection to oil filter voir to above frame height
A3 Packager connection - oil from compressor crankcase 2 Heater
A4 Lube oil compressor-inlet-connection to gallery tube and 3 Y-Strainer - required (supplied unmounted by Ariel)
bearings 4 Check valve
A5 Pressure regulating valve return connection to crankcase 5 Compressor driven oil pump (with safety relief valve for
(when applicable on some models) pressure regulation, or in models with a separate regulating
A6 Filter vent return connection to the crankcase (when appli- valve (14), for relief)
cable on some models) 6 Oil cooler - required
A7 Oil tubing connections from frame gallery tube to top and 7 Thermostatic control valve, 170°F (77°C) nominal rating -
bottom of crosshead guides to lubricate crossheads required
A8 Compressor crankcase oil drain 8 Pre-lube oil pump - required (with oil heating circuit, when
applicable), or auxiliary pump
9 Optional duplex oil filter
10 Temperature indicator
11 Pressure indicator (dirty side)
12 Oil filter
13 Pressure indicator (clean side)
14 Pressure regulating valve with overflow return to crankcase
(when applicable for some models)
15 Pressure indicator/shutdown connection

Remove the strainer basket and wash it in an

NOTE: See Appendix H for further details about dry
appropriate solvent whenever lubricating oil is
sump lubrication systems.
changed.For dry sump frames, the lube oil
strainer ships uninstalled from the factory. The
packager installs it in the piping later.
Oil Strainer
An oil strainer installed upstream of the pump
Oil Pump & Regulating Valve
prevents debris from entering the pump and
damaging it. Ariel supplies a 30 mesh (595 The oil pump constantly supplies oil to all journal
microns) or 40 mesh (400 microns) on all frames, bearings, bushings, and crosshead sliding
depending on frame size. It is located on the surfaces. The crankshaft drives it by a chain and
auxiliary end of the crankcase below oil level. sprocket to provide adequate oil flow to bearings
when the compressor operates at the minimum
speed rating (typically half of maximum rated
speed).
Figure: Typical Lube Oil Pump

1 Discharge
2 Safety Relief Valve
3 Dust Cap
4 Suction
Smaller compressor models have
threaded suction/discharge connections.
JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J:H:E:K:T:C:D:F, KBE:K:T:C:D:F, JGZ:U and KBB:V:Z:U frames maintain oil

and KB100 compressors maintain oil pressure pressure with a separate regulating valve located
with a spring-loaded safety relief valve within the downstream of the lube oil filter (see Figure:
pump head (see Figure: Typical Lube Oil Pump). Typical Lube Oil Pump). Ensure the pressure
With the unit running at minimum operating relief valve on the main lube oil pump is fully
speed and the frame lube oil at operating closed. With the unit running at minimum
temperature, 170°F (77°C), remove the dust cap operating speed and the frame lube oil at
to expose the safety relief valve adjustment operating temperature, 170°F (77°C), set the
screw and set it so the pressure gauge on the separate regulating valve so the pressure gauge
clean side of the oil filter reads 60 psig (4.1 barg). on the clean side of the oil filter reads 60 psig (4.1
barg).

When installing a new oil pump on a compressor both lube oil and cooling medium. If mounted
or after maintenance on an existing oil pump, above frame oil level, check valves may be
Ariel recommends priming the pump (wetting necessary to prevent oil drainage back to the
the gears with oil) before start-up to ensure frame. Configure oil cooler circuit so air can be
proper operation. Upon compressor start-up manually vented at high points in the system
after oil pump replacement, oil pressure should during commissioning and after maintenance.
immediately reach 50-60 psi. If oil pressure fails
The Application Manual lists required cooling
to reach 50-60 psi immediately, shut down the
water temperature and flow rate to properly cool
compressor and correct the problem. Dry oil
oil with Ariel supplied coolers. The Ariel
pump gears sometimes contribute to the
Performance Program lists oil heat rejection data
problem.
for each frame in the frame details section
(contact Ariel for details).
Oil Cooler
An oil cooler is required to remove heat from the Oil Temperature Control Valve
frame lube oil. When sizing an oil cooler, consider
The lube oil system requires a thermostatic valve
temperature and flow rate of both cooling
to control compressor oil temperature. A
medium and lube oil. Insufficient cooling water
thermostatic valve is a three-way valve with a
flow rate is the primary cause of high oil
temperature sensitive element. As the oil heats,
temperatures. Ariel recommends mounting oil
the sensing element opens the third port in the
coolers below compressor frame oil level and as
valve.
close to the compressor as possible with piping
of adequate size to minimize pressure drop of
Figure: Thermostatic Valve in Mixing Mode

Thermostatic control valve configuration may
vary from this schematic depending on valve
size. Valve connections A-B-C are marked on
the valve.
1 Lube oil from main oil pump
2 Thermostatic Control Valve
3 Lube oil to main oil filter
4 Lube Oil Cooler
Ariel recommends a thermostatic valve with a

170°F (77°C) element. Install the valve in mixing
mode to more directly control oil temperature
into the frame (see Figure: Thermostatic Valve in
Mixing Mode).

Oil Filter Pressure gauges monitor pressure drop across

the filter. High differential pressure indicates a
All compressor frames require oil filters to plugged filter. Ariel recommends lube oil filter
remove particle contamination that can damage replacement every 6 months of operation or
equipment and oil. Contaminants that damage when oil filter differential pressure at normal
equipment include wear particles from operating temperature reaches 10 psid (0.7 bard)
equipment, airborne particles such as dust or for spin-on filters or 15 psid (1.0 bard) for
sand, and particulates in new oil. Contaminants cartridge filters, whichever comes first. On start-
that damage oil include oxidized oil components up, differential pressure may exceed the filter
and air bubbles. replacement limit until the oil reaches operating
• Ariel filters are not designed for reverse flow temperature.On the same schedule, or with
often caused by pumping oil out of the every main oil filter change, clean the sintered
compressor through the filter. This can invert element in the small oil filter of the force feed
and tear the filter media, sending dirty oil to lubricator.
crankshaft bearings.
• With canister style filters, always drain oil
filter housing before element removal or dirty Compressor Pre-lube System
oil will be sent to crankshaft bearings.
• Keep new filter elements sealed in their orig- Ariel compressors must be pre-lubed anytime the
inal packaging during storage. Visually crankshaft is turned and prior to starting. Ariel
inspect filter internal/external surfaces prior strongly recommends an automated pre-lube
to installation. Do not install damaged, system to extend driveline component life.
corroded, or contaminated filters.
• Do not exceed 12 month installed period for Ariel requires automated pre-lube systems for
filter element. compressors that meet any of the following
criteria:
JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J, KB100, JGH:E:K:T/2/4,
KBE:K:T/2/4, JGC:D:F/2, and KBC:D:F/2 • Electric motor driven compressors.
compressors ship with simplex, spin-on, non- • Unattended-start compressors, regardless of
driver type.
bypassing, resin-impregnated filters as standard.
• Compressor models JGC:D:F:Z:U:B:V and
Spin-on filters carry a 5 micron nominal and 17
KBE:K:T:C:D:F:Z:U:B:V.
micron absolute rating. The Beta ratings are ß5 =
2 and ß17 = 75. Many spin-on filters fit an Ariel See Figure: Standard Frame Lube Oil Schematic
compressor, but very few meet filtration ratings for pre-lube circuit design.
of Ariel filters. Do not use aftermarket filters.
NOTE: The pre-lube return into the frame must be
JGE:K:T/6, KBK:T/6, JGC:D:F:B:V/4/6, upstream of the oil filter.
KBC:D:F/4/6, JGZ:U, and KBB:V:Z:U compressors
ship with simplex or duplex cartridge style For on-demand compressor applications, the
pleated synthetic filters as standard. Cartridge pre-lube pump can circulate oil continuously
filters are rated as 1 micron nominal and 12 through the bearings while on standby.
micron absolute filters. The Beta ratings are ß1 =
2, ß5 = 10 and ß12 = 75.

Ariel requirements are based on a pre-lube pump If the compressor fails to achieve 45 psig (3.1
sized for 25% of frame oil pump flow to ensure oil barg) oil pressure within 10 seconds after
flow to bearings, bushings, and oil-filled reaching engine idle speed or electric motor start
clearances prior to turning or start-up (see initiation, ensure shutdown and correct the
Appendix C in the appropriate Maintenance & cause. Repeat pre-lube before each start
Repair Manual for frame oil pump flow rates). attempt.
The following statements depend on oil supply The pre-lube pump must remain latched until
and sump viscosities, which depend on oil either main lube oil pressure reaches 75 psi or
temperature. Oil supply temperature at the filter the compressor reaches minimum speed.
head or frame oil gallery is not always a true
representation of total oil sump temperature. NOTE: If a compressor fails to start or shuts down at
See Figure: Viscosity vs. Temperature Graph of start-up due to low oil pressure, DO NOT re-start until
the cause is corrected.
Different Lubricants to determine oil viscosity
based on temperature.
• During a cold start of the unit when oil supply Compressor Pre-lube for CNG
viscosity is greater than 50 cSt, pre-lube pres-
sure should be 30 psig (2.1 barg) at the oil Applications
gallery for a minimum of 2 minutes prior to
The normal minimum pre-lube pressure
turning or starting.
requirement is 30 psig (2.1 barg) for 2 minutes for
• During a hot re-start of the unit when oil
supply viscosity is less than 50 cSt, pre-lube continuous duty compressors. In CNG
pressure should be 20 psig (1.4 barg) at the oil applications, the compressors can start and stop
gallery for a minimum of 2 minutes prior to as much as 50 to 100 times a day. This special
turning or starting. service demands exceptions to normal pre-lube
and cold weather starting requirements.
NOTE: A 10 to 15 minute pre-lube is required after:
• Any major drive line maintenance NOTE: The requirements below apply only to
• The main lube oil system is drained JGM:P:N:Q/2 and KB100 compressors in CNG applica-
• Oil filter replacement tions. No other frames or applications are exempt
from normal pre-lube requirements.
Instrumentation: Automated pre-lube systems
require a start permissive logic and 1. The minimum pre-lube pressure is 30 psig
instrumentation to satisfy the minimum required (2.1 barg) for at least 30 seconds.
pressure and duration at the oil gallery inlet. 2. The minimum oil temperature to pre-lube
and start is 30°F (-1°C) when using a PAG type
The compressor requires a Class B low oil
oil that is acceptable per Table:
pressure shutdown. Inhibited time must not
Cylinder/Packing Oil Requirements for
exceed 10 seconds after idle speed is achieved on
Various Gas Stream Components, or 50°F
gas engines or start initiation for electric motors.
(10°C) when using a non-PAG type oil such as
a PAO or mineral oil that is acceptable per
Table: Cylinder/Packing Oil Requirements for
Various Gas Stream Components. The
compressor must have an oil temperature

sensor to ensure this low oil temperature entire auxiliary pump flow in case of downstream
permissive is met. Maximum allowable oil blockage. Operate the auxiliary oil pump when
temperature into the crankcase is 190°F frame oil pressure falls to alarm set point. The
(88°C). auxiliary oil pump may be used for frame oil pre-
lubrication.
3. The low oil temperature start limit must be no
less than the oil temperature required for
adequate viscosity to load the compressor. Oil Heaters
The maximum viscosity to load is 1000 cSt.
The compressor may need a frame oil heater to
4. Ambient temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) meet allowable oil viscosity requirements at
require a standalone circulating auxiliary start-up (see “Viscosity”). One possible heating
lube oil heating system for the compressor. In mode maintains the compressor frame at a
extreme cold, an immersion heater is inade- minimum temperature so the compressor can
quate. Maintain oil temperature between at start immediately if needed (Table: Heat
least 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C). Required to Maintain Minimum Frame
Temperature). Multiply the coefficients listed in
5. A small bypass line downstream of the circu-
Table: Heat Required to Maintain Minimum
lating heating system that sends oil directly
Frame Temperature by the differential between
into the frame sump will help flow sufficient
target oil temperature and ambient temperature
oil to build and maintain heat in the
to obtain the kilowatt rating for a heater.
compressor. The bypass line must be a small
diameter so the pre-lube pump can build and Another mode heats oil from ambient to a
maintain adequate pressure. A bypass pres- minimum temperature prior to starting (see
sure relief valve may instead be used to main- Table: Heat Required to Warm Cold Frame and
tain pre-lube pressure and sufficient oil flow Oil). Multiply the coefficients listed in Table: Heat
through the system independent of oil Required to Warm Cold Frame and Oil by the rise
viscosity. See Figure: Standard Frame Lube in oil temperature and divide by target hours to
Oil Schematic. obtain the kilowatt rating for a heater.
Ariel recommends circulation heaters for all Ariel

Auxiliary Frame Oil Pump compressors. JGZ:U:B:V, KBZ:U:B:V units use
circulation heating only. Heated oil should
Operation below half the frame operating speed
circulate through the filter, bearings, and
requires an auxiliary frame oil pump to maintain
crossheads as well as the sump.
oil pressure. Size the auxiliary oil pump for at
least 25% of the rated oil flow at 60 psig All Ariel compressors have at least one heater
published in the frame datasheets. Pipe the connection; four and six throw frames have two.
auxiliary oil pump in parallel with the main oil Maximum allowable watt density for an
pump and include an adjustable pressure relief immersion heater is 15 W/in2 (2.3 W/cm2). This
valve. The relief valve must accommodate the limit prevents oil coking on the heater element,
which reduces heater efficiency and
contaminates remaining oil.

Table: Heat Required to Maintain Minimum Frame Temperature: kW = Ch x ΔT
Heater Coefficient (Ch), kW/°F (kW/°C)

Model
2-Throw 4-Throw 6-Throw
JGM:P:N:Q, KB100 0.0086 (0.0155) --- ---
JG:A 0.0094 (0.0170) 0.0179 (0.0322) 0.0261 (0.0470)
JGW:R:J 0.0147 (0.0265) 0.0289 (0.0520) 0.0419 (0.0754)
JGH:E:K:T, KBE:K:T 0.0252 (0.0454) 0.0492 (0.0886) 0.0731 (0.1316)
JGC:D:F, KBC:D:F 0.0392 (0.0706) 0.0722 (0.1300) 0.1044 (0.1880)
JGZ:U, KBZ:U 0.0534 (0.0961) 0.0944 (0.1700) 0.1319 (0.2374)
JGB:V, KBB:V --- 0.1295 (0.2331) 0.1768 (0.3182)
Table: Heat Required to Warm Cold Frame and Oil: kW = Ch x ΔT / Δt
Heater Coefficient (Ch), kW-h/°F (kW-h/°C)

Model
2 Throw 4 Throw 6 Throw
JGM:P:N:Q, KB100 0.0275 (0.0495) --- ---
JG:A 0.0352 (0.0634) 0.0818 (0.1472) 0.1347 (0.3425)
JGW:R:J 0.0591 (0.1064) 0.1212 (0.2182) 0.1832 (0.3298)
JGH:E 0.1368 (0.2462) 0.2962 (0.5332) 0.4526 (0.8147)
JGK:T, KBE:K:T 0.1494 (0.2689) 0.3024 (0.5832) 0.4526 (0.8147)
JGC:D:F, KBC:D:F 0.2684 (0.4831) 0.5614 (1.0105) 0.8074 (1.4533)
JGZ:U, KBZ:U 0.4496 (0.8093) 0.8900 (1.6020) 1.2421 (2.2358)
JGB:V, KBB:V --- 1.4176 (2.5517) 2.0224 (3.6403)
Oil System Cleanliness driven pump and filtered, clean production oil.
Ariel thoroughly cleans all compressor frame
Clean the compressor frame oil piping system cavities prior to assembly and test runs
and components of all foreign matter such as compressors with a filtered closed loop lube
sand, rust, mill scale, metal chips, weld spatter, system.
grease, and paint. Use proper cleaning
procedures with proper cleaners, acids, and/or
mechanical cleaning to meet cleanliness
requirements. Ariel recommends flushing all oil-
piping systems with an electric or pneumatic

NOTE: Ariel recommends not disturbing lube oil NAS-1638 GRADE 5

piping downstream of the installed oil filter. Contam- Particle Size Range Grade 5 Maximum
inants that enter this piping or open ports flush into µm/100ml Oil Sample Particles Allowed
the bearings causing catastrophic damage. If contam-
ination is suspected in the supply piping downstream 5 to 15 8,000
of the oil filter or in the oil gallery, remove the supply 15 to 25 1,424
piping and thoroughly clean both the piping and
25 to 50 253
gallery. Before performing this work, contact Ariel
Technical Service for best practices and procedures. 50 to 100 45
To remove or alter piping, cover the inlets to the oil Over 100 8
gallery, the ends of the piping, and the filter outlet so
no contaminants enter. Before reinstallation, chem-
1. Prior to assembling lube oil piping, remove
ical and mechanical cleaning is required. Flush the
scale, weld slag, rust and any other matter
pipe in accordance with Ariel cleanliness require-
ments (see Table: Oil Flush Cleanliness Requirements that could contaminate lube oil. Confirm:
). • Complete and closed lube oil system.
• Crankcase filled to the correct level with
Prior to start-up, flush all compressors installed appropriate oil.
with an electric or pneumatic powered pre-lube • Proper and correctly installed lube oil
pump and less than 50 feet (15 m) of oil piping as filters.
outlined below. Include cooler oil passages in the • Operational and viewable oil pressure
flushing loop. While oil systems for compressors transducer or gauge, oil filter differential-
without an electric or pneumatic powered pre- pressure transducers or gauges, and oil
temperature RTD or indicator.
lube pump and less than 50 feet (15 m) of oil
2. Start pre-lube pump. Record oil pressure, oil
piping must be clean, oil flushing is desirable, but
filter differential-pressure, and oil tempera-
not required.
ture. Minimum oil pressure is 30 psig (2.1
For all compressors with oil piping systems barg) for effective flushing. Do not exceed 90
greater than 50 feet (15 m), cleaning and flushing psig (6.2 barg).
must result in a cleanliness level to ISO-4406,
3. Flush continuously for one hour. Oil filter
Grade 13/10/9 and/or NAS-1638, Class 5 (see
differential pressure must not increase more
Table: Oil Flush Cleanliness Requirements ), prior
than 10% of measured oil pressure into the
to start-up.
filter. Record the oil pressure, oil filter differ-
Table: Oil Flush Cleanliness Requirements ential pressure, and oil temperature every 15
minutes. Oil temperature increases of more
ISO-4406 GRADE 13/10/9
than 10°F (5.5°C) during an hour of flushing
Particle Size invalidate the system cleanliness test, due to
Grade Particles
µm/ml Oil
Requirement Allowed oil viscosity change.
Sample
/13 Greater than 4 40 to 80 4. After one hour of pre-lube flushing, if differen-

/10 Greater than 6 5 to 10 tial pressure or temperature increases
exceed the limits above, continue flushing. If
/9 Greater than 14 2.5 to 5
the lube oil filter differential pressure exceeds

change filter limits, stop the pre-lube pump Synthetic lubricants are acceptable in a
and change the oil filter. To ensure system compressor frame provided they meet operating
cleanliness, re-set time and continue flushing viscosity requirements outlined in Table: Oil
until the compressor achieves a continuous Viscosity Requirements. Compounded lubricants
hour of flushing within differential pressure are prohibited in the frame.
and temperature increase limits.
See ISO-4406 "International Standard - Hydraulic Viscosity

fluid power - Fluids - Method for coding level of
For cold ambient temperatures, design the oil
contamination by solid particles" and/or NAS-
system so the unit may safely start with adequate
1638 "National Aerospace Standard, Aerospace
oil flow to the bearings and bushings. Successful
Industries Association of America, Inc. -
operation may require temperature controlled
Cleanliness Requirements for Parts Used in
cooler by-pass valves, oil heaters, cooler louvers,
Hydraulic Systems" for complete information.
and even buildings.
Use a competent oil lab for sample testing. To
flush the entire oil system see “Flushing The minimum allowable viscosity of the oil
Procedure” in the appropriate Maintenance & entering the frame is 16 cSt. Typically, this is the
Repair Manual. viscosity of ISO 150 grade oil at about 190°F
(88°C). For Ariel frames, the maximum viscosity
to start the compressor is 3,300 cSt and the
Frame Oil System Operation maximum viscosity to load the compressor is
1,000 cSt. See Figure: Viscosity vs. Temperature
Frame Lubricant Graph of Different Lubricants.
In the compressor frame, Ariel recommends ISO

150 grade paraffinic mineral oil that provides
oxidation, rust, and corrosion inhibition, and
anti-wear properties - commonly called R&O oil.
SAE 40 weight engine oil is also acceptable, but
contains many unnecessary additives.
In limited circumstances and with prior approval

from Ariel, cold weather installations may use
multiviscosity oils in the compressor frame if the
oil supplier certifies the oil as shear stable. The
viscosity of shear stable oil degrades less through
use. Most oil suppliers certify oil as shear stable if
viscosity degrades less than a certain percentage
in specific tests. As a result, multi-viscosity oils
are subject to a 30% to 50% shorter life than
single straight grade oils.

Table: Oil Viscosity Requirements, cSt

Max Viscosity Min Viscosity
into into
Max. Viscosity Max Viscosity to
Frame Compressor at Compressor at
to START LOAD
Operating Operating
Temp. Temp.
JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J:H:E:K:T, KBE:K:T, 3,300 1,000 60 16

KB100
JGC:D:F, KBC:D:F 2,000 1,000
JGZ:U, KBZ:U:B:V 2,000 350
Figure: Viscosity vs. Temperature Graph of Different Lubricants
Oil Pressure up to 60 psig (4.1 barg) at the lower of the frame

or cylinder rated speed, or driver speed at normal
The factory sets normal pressure on the operating temperature. Adjust the oil pressure
discharge side of the oil filter at 60 psig (4.1 barg) after the filter to 60 psig at minimum operating
for compressors tested mechanically complete speed and normal operating temperature.
(inspector tag displayed). If factory tested as
mechanically incomplete (no inspector tag), the
packager sets normal oil pressure at initial start-

Ariel uses the pump safety relief valve to regulate Cylinder and Packing
pressure into the compressor. If oil pressure into
the compressor at minimum operating speed Lubrication
and normal operating temperature does not read The cylinder lubrication system injects
about 60 psig (4.1 barg), adjust the pump safety lubrication into cylinder bores and packings. The
relief valve. With compressor running at system consists of an oil supply, an oil filter, a
minimum operating speed, turn the adjustment force feed lubricator pump, divider blocks,
screw clockwise to increase oil pressure, or pressure indicators, check valves, and flow
counter-clockwise to decrease it. The monitoring shutdown devices. The system is
compressor requires a 45 psig (3.1 barg) low oil progressive; each piston in the divider block
pressure shutdown for protection. must complete a cycle before the system cycles
again. This type of system offers better
NOTE: If oil pressure drops below 50 PSIG (3.4 barg)
lubrication precision and eases monitoring.
when crankshaft speed equals or exceeds minimum
rated operating speed, find the cause and correct it.
Oil Supply Filter
Oil Temperature An in-line oil filter is required upstream of the
force feed lubricator pumps. When frame lube oil
Maintain frame inlet oil temperature as close to is used for cylinder lubrication, the provided
170°F (77°C) as possible. Minimum lube oil compressor filtration system is adequate. For
operating temperature is 150°F (66°C) to drive off separate force-feed lube oil supplies, the
water vapor. Maximum allowable oil packager must install a filter. Ariel recommended
temperature into the compressor frame is 190°F filtration is 5 micron nominal. Ariel supplies a
(88°C). Higher temperatures increase the secondary strainer/filter at the pump inlet.
oxidation rate of mineral oil. Every 18°F (10°C)
within the operating range doubles the oxidation
rate of mineral oil.
Force Feed Lubricator
For proper operation of the thermostatic control The force feed lubrication system oils the
valve, the maximum differential pressure compressor cylinders and piston rod packings.
between the hot oil supply line and the cooled oil Oil flows to the suction side of the force feed
return line is 10 psid (0.7 bard). lubricator pump directly from the pressure side
of the frame lubrication system. A self-contained
oil reservoir oils the force feed lubricator worm
Oil Sampling Valve gear and cam. The force feed lubricator sight
glass shows the reservoir oil level.
Install an oil sampling valve between the oil
pump and filter at an easily accessible location.
Minimize the distance between sampling valve
and oil circulating through the system.

Figure: Typical Force Feed Lubricator

A With Auto Relief Valve (ARV)
B With Rupture Disk
1 Auto-Relief Valve (ARV)
2 ARV Manifold
3 Priming Stem
4 Pump Plunger Stroke Adjust-
ment Screw
5 Lock Nut
6 Lubricator Oil Fill Connection
7 Sight Glass
8 Mounting Flange Capscrews
(4)
9 Drain Plug
10 Purge/Vent Connection
11 Pump Outlet to Distribution
Block
12 Inlet to ARV
13 Lubricator Overflow
14 Force Feed Lubricator
Sprocket
15 O-ring
16 Inlet Header
17 Pump Inlet from Header
18 Rupture Disk Assembly
Auto-Relief Valve (ARV)

An auto-relief valve (ARV) is a mechanical valve
that protects force-feed lubrication systems from
over-pressure conditions. Unlike a rupture disk
assembly, the ARV is reusable and does not expel
oil onto the compressor skid.

Figure: Auto-Relief Valve Components
1 Spring Barrel 6 Spring Piston 11 ARV Inlet

2 O-ring 7 O-ring Retainer 12 Adapter
3 Washer 8 Manifold 13 E-Clip
4 Indicator Pin 9 Pressure Pin 14 ARV Outlet (Bypass Port)
5 Spring 10 Intermediate Barrel
ARV Operation pump (Figure: ARV Operation – High Pressure).

Bypassing oil limits the pressure created by the
Figure: ARV Operation pump. The pump will operate in bypass
condition until either the divider valve no-flow
device times out due to lack of flow or pressure
downstream of the pump decreases allowing the
ARV to close (Figure: ARV Operation– Pressure
Relieved).
When the ARV begins bypassing, an indicator pin

protrudes from the top of the ARV indicating an
over-pressure condition. The indicator pin is a
“tattle tale” and remains protruding after the
ARV bypasses oil (Figure: ARV Operation–
Pressure Relieved ). Two bypass conditions are
possible:
1 Normal Pressure (pin does not protrude)
Intermittent blockage downstream of the
2 High Pressure (pin protrudes)
pump - A brief condition or one-time event that
3 Pressure Relieved (pin not reset)
prevents the shutdown device from timing out
and allows the compressor to continue to
When a force-feed pump encounters a
operate.
downstream restriction, pump discharge
pressure increases. If discharge pressure exceeds
ARV cracking pressure, the ARV bypasses excess
oil back to the low-pressure inlet side of the

Significant blockage downstream of the pump The baseplate contains the divider valve inlet
- A condition of long enough duration to cause and outlet connections, interrelated
the shutdown device to timeout and shutdown passageways, and built-in check valves. All
the compressor. lubricant piping to and from the distribution
block connects to the baseplate. The baseplate
After downstream blockage/restriction removal,
consists of one inlet block, three to seven
the indicator pin can be manually reset by
intermediate blocks, one end block, and three tie
depressing the indicator pin until it is flush with
rods. The number of baseplate intermediate
the ARV housing.
blocks determines the number of divider valves
allowed. Each distribution block requires a
Rupture Disk Assembly
minimum of three divider valves.
A blow-out fitting with a properly rated rupture
Some systems include primary and secondary
disk is installed at the force feed lubricator pump
distribution blocks. Primary distribution blocks
outlet upstream of the no-flow shutdown. The
feed two or more secondary distribution blocks.
disk color indicates its burst pressure and should
Connect a no-flow device to the primary
show through the hole in the fitting. At over-
distribution block.
pressure, the disk ruptures and interrupts the oil
flow through the rest of the system. The no-flow
device must shut down the compressor within 3 Over-Pressure Pin Indicator
minutes of oil flow interruption. (Optional)
Over-pressure indicators install on the front face
Pressure Gauge of divider valves. If an outlet port exceeds the
Pressure gauges are installed on all distribution specified lubricant pressure, a pin emerges from
blocks for system monitoring and the front of the indicator, identifying the over-
troubleshooting. pressured line.
Distribution Blocks Fluid Flow Monitor and Cycle

Indicators
Distribution blocks consist of three to seven
divider valves and an optional bypass block See "Force Feed Lube System Monitors" in
fastened to a segmented baseplate. O-rings seal Section 9.
between the divider valves and baseplate and
between baseplate segments. Check valves are Balance Valves
installed at all lube port outlets.
Balance valves reduce system problems such as
Divider valves contain metering pistons that
bypassing, no-flow switch errors, or blown
discharge a predetermined amount of oil with
rupture disks in high differential pressure
each cycle in a single line, progressive lubrication
distribution block applications. Balance valves
system.
add pressure to distribution block discharge
ports to minimize differential pressure across the
distribution block.

Check Valves inject oil into the cylinder nozzle on the inlet
pulsation vessel. Flushing oil lines are tubed to
Single ball check valves are provided at the oil the end of the crosshead guide. The Packager
gallery and divider block outlets. Double ball provides lube lines from the end of the guide to
check valves are installed at each injection point the suction pulsation vessel cylinder nozzle. An
to prevent reverse leakage and isolate injection atomizer for flushing lube injection can be
points. constructed of a thermowell with an 1/8” hole
drilled in the tip.
Flushing Oil (Optional)
Ariel recommends cylinder flushing oil for sour Common Oil Supply
gas services with 100 ppm and greater H2S Figure: Force Feed Lubrication System Common
content. Flushing oil provides corrosion Oil Supply shows the force feed lube system
protection for the suction valve bodies and installation when compressor frame lube oil is
springs. Ariel supplies distribution blocks to also used for cylinder and packing lubrication.
Figure: Force Feed Lubrication System Common Oil Supply

A To other cylinders and pack-
ings
B Drain to crankcase
1 Frame Oil Gallery
2 Single Ball Check Valve
3 Sintered Bronze Filter (if
applicable)
4 Force Feed Lubricator Pump
5 ARV or Rupture Disk
6 Pressure Gauge
7 Divider Valves/Distribution
Block
8 Fluid Flow Monitor No-Flow
Timer Shutdown Switch
9 Double Ball Check Valve
10 Top Cylinder Injection Point
11 Bottom Cylinder Injection
Point
12 Packing Injection Point

Independent Oil Supply Independent force feed lube systems require oil
with a viscosity below 1100 cSt at the lubricator
When cylinders and packing require oil different pump inlet (e.g. ISO 320 at 73°F (23°C), contact
from frame oil, the force feed lubricator system lube supplier about specific lubricants). Possible
requires an independent oil supply system (see ways to ensure force feed pump is fed oil during
Figure: Force Feed Lubrication System suction stroke:
Independent Oil Supply). An elevated tank must
• Increase pipe and fitting size from tank to
supply pressurized force feed lube oil at a force feed pump.
minimum of 1 psig (0.07 barg) to the force feed • Heat the oil.
pump inlet manifold. • Heat trace and insulate the line from the tank.
To prevent force feed oil from contaminating • Pressurize the supply tank (tank must be
compressor frame oil, disconnect lubricator box designed for pressure).
overflow tubing from compressor frame and
direct it to a suitable drain system.
Figure: Force Feed Lubrication System Independent Oil Supply

A NOTE: System must provide
positive pressure to force
feed lubricator pump.
B 1/4-inch NPT (female) over-
flow. Pipe or tube to appro-
priate isolated customer
connection. Do not drain to
crank case.
1 Oil Supply Tank
2 Oil Filter (max. 5 micron)
3 System Inlet 1/4-inch NPT
(female) customer connec-
tion
4 Sintered Bronze Filter (if
applicable)
5 Force Feed Lubricator Pump
6 ARV or Rupture Disk
7 Pressure Gauge
8 Divider Valves Distribution
Block
9 Fluid Flow Monitor No-Flow
Timer Shutdown Switch

Cylinder Lubrication 2. Discharge gas pressure - the higher the pres-

sure, the more dilution.
Cylinder lubrication rates and type are based on
operating conditions and gas composition. 3. Discharge gas temperature - the higher the
Several factors influence cylinder oil temperature, the less dilution.
dilution/saturation by process gas. Table: 4. Lubricant type - some oils are more prone to
Cylinder/Packing Oil Requirements for Various dilution than others.
Gas Stream Components accounts for the
following: If the Ariel lube sheets specify multiple oil grades
or types, use the highest grade oil for all cylinders
1. Process gas composition/Specific Gravity
or reconfigure the system to use multiple oils.
(SG) - usually the higher the SG, the more dilu-
tion.
Table: Cylinder/Packing Oil Requirements for Various Gas Stream Components

Gas
Cylinder Discharge Pressures, psig (barg)
Stream
Pipeline 0 - 1250 (0 - 86) 1250 - 2000 (86 - 2000 - 3500 (138 - 3500 - 5000 (241 - Above 5000 (345)b
Quality 138) 241)b 345)b
Natural
Gas SAE 40 wt. Engine R & O Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO
Including Oil R & O Oil (ISO 220)1.25 x Base 220) 320) 460)
CNG (Dry) 150) Synthetic Rate w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding
Ester (ISO 150) 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
Synthetic PAO
(ISO 100) Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
Synthetic PAG (ISO 150) (ISO 220) (ISO 320) (ISO 460)
(ISO 100) 1.00 x Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
Base Rate (ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate
Natural R & O oil (ISO 150) Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Contact Ariel
Gas (Water 1.25 x Base Rate 220) 460) 680)
Saturated w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding
and/or R & O oil (ISO 220) 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
Heavy 1.50 x Base Rate
Hydrocarb
ons and SG Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
> 0.7 to 0.8) (ISO 100) (ISO 150) (ISO 220) (ISO 320)
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x

Gas
Stream
Natural 0 - 1000 (0 - 69) 1000 - 2000 (69 - 2000 - 3000 (138 - 3000 - 4000 (207 - Above 4000 (276)b
Gas (Water 138) 207)b 276)b
Saturated
and/or R & O Oil (ISO 150) Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Contact Ariel
Heavy 1.25 x Base Rate 220) 460) 680)
Hydrocarb w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding
ons and SG 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
> 0.8 to 0.9)
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
(ISO 100) (ISO 150) (ISO 220) (ISO 320)
(ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Natural Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
Gas (Water 220) 460) 680) (ISO 150) 2.00 x (ISO 150) 2.00 x
Saturated w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding Base Rate - Base Rate -
and/or 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate Contact Ariel for Contact Ariel for
Heavy non-synthetic oils non-synthetic oils
Hydrocarb Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
ons and SG (ISO 150) (ISO 320) (ISO 460)
> 0.9) Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate
Nitrogen 0 - 1250 (0 - 86) 1250 - 2000 (86 - 2000 - 3500 (138 - 3500 - 5000 (241 - Above 5000 (345)b
138) 241)b 345)b
SAE 40 wt. Engine SAE 40 wt. Engine R & O Oil (ISO 220) R & O Oil (ISO 320) Cylinder Oil (ISO
Oil R & O Oil (ISO Oil R & O Oil (ISO Synthetic Ester Synthetic Ester 460)
150) Synthetic 150) Synthetic (ISO 150) (ISO 150) w/Compounding
Ester (ISO 150) Ester (ISO 150) Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic Ester
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO (ISO 150) (ISO 150) (ISO 150)
(ISO 100) (ISO 100) Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAO
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG (ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 220)
(ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.00 x Base Rate Base Rate Synthetic PAG
Base Rate Base Rate (ISO 100) 1.00 x
Base Rate
Air or gas Synthetic Ester Synthetic Ester Synthetic Ester Synthetic Ester Synthetic Ester
mixtures (ISO 150) 1.50 x (ISO 150) 2.00 x (ISO 150) 3.00 x (ISO 150) 3.00 x (ISO 150) 3.00 x
with >4% Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate
oxygen
content
Natural R & O Oil (ISO 150) Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO
Gas (Water 1.25 x Base Rate 220) 460) 680) 680)
Saturated w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding
and CO2 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
2% to 10%)
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
(ISO 100) (ISO 150) (ISO 220) (ISO 320) (ISO 320)
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 1.00 x (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate

Gas
Stream
Natural 0 - 1000 (0 - 69) 1000 - 2000 (69 - 2000 - 3000 (138 - 3000 - 4000 (207 - Above 4000 (276)b
Gas (Water 138) 207)b 276)b
Saturated
and CO2 > Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
10% to 220) 460) 680) (ISO 150) 2.00 x (ISO 150) 2.00 x
40%) w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding Base Rate - Base Rate -
1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate Contact Ariel for Contact Ariel for
non-synthetic oils non-synthetic oils
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
(ISO 150) (ISO 320) (ISO 460)
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Base Rate Base Rate Base Rate
Natural Cylinder Oil (ISO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAG Contact Ariel
Gas (Water 680) (ISO 320) (ISO 320) (ISO 220) 2.00 x
Saturated w/Compounding Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Base Rate
and CO2 > 1.25 x Base Rate (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 150) 1.50 x
40%) Base Rate Base Rate
Synthetic PAO
(ISO 150)
Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 1.00 x
Base Rate

Gas
Stream
Natural 0 - 1000 (0 - 69) 1000 - 2000 (69 - 2000 - 3000 (138 - 3000 - 4000 (207 - Above 4000 (276)b
Gas (Water 138) 207)b 276)b
Saturated
and H2S > Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Synthetic PAG
2% to 40%) 220) 220) 460) 680) (ISO 100) 2.00 x
w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding Base Rate
1.25 x Base Rate 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO

(ISO 100) (ISO 150) (ISO 320) (ISO 460)
(ISO 100) 1.00x (ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x
Natural Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Cylinder Oil (ISO Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
Gas (Water 220) 460) 680) (ISO 150) 2.50 x (ISO 220) 3.00 x
Saturated w/Compounding w/Compounding w/Compounding Base Rate Base Rate
and H2S > 1.50 x Base Rate 2.00 x Base Rate 3.00 x Base Rate
40%)
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAG
(ISO 150) (ISO 320) (ISO 100) 2.00 x
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG Base Rate
(ISO 100) 1.25 x (ISO 100) 1.50 x
Base Rate Base Rate
Propane 0 - 500 (0 - 35) 500 - 1000 (35 - 69) 1000 - 3500 (69 - 3500 - 5000 (241 - Above 5000 (345)
(Refrigeran 241) 345)
t)d
SAE 40 wt. Engine SAE 40 wt. Engine Contact Ariel Not Available Not Available
Oil R & O Oil (ISO Oil R & O Oil (ISO
150) Refrigerant 150) Refrigerant
Oil (ISO 150) Oil (ISO 150)
Synthetic PAO Synthetic PAO
(ISO 100) (ISO 100)
Synthetic PAG Synthetic PAG
(ISO 100) 0.50 x (ISO 100) 1.00 x
Base Rate Base Rate
a See Table: Cylinder/Packing Lube Oil Base Rate for base rates.
b Also requires water-cooled packing (except cylinders on JG:A:M:P:N:Q).
c Engine oils suspend water from wet gas streams and form emulsions (gel/foam). Emulsions interfere with
cylinder/packing lubrication and create deposits in system piping. R & O oil, cylinder oil, and synthetic lubricants
better tolerate wet conditions and prevent emulsion formation.
d Verify oil pour point temperature is below gas stream temperatures to avoid oil solidification in low temperature
regions.
e Synthetic PAG lubricants cannot be contaminated with engine oil, R & O oil, cylinder oil, or synthetic PAO lubricants.
Consult oil provider for compatibility limitations for fluids and materials that will be exposed to PAG. Refer to Ariel
flushing procedure in ER-96.5.11 when changing between incompatible fluids.

Table: Cylinder/Packing Lube Oil Base Rate, all Class T and 1-3/4JG-FS-HE cylinders, use
Pints/Day/Inch (Liters/Day/mm) of Bore standard multiple bore lube points. Piston rod
Diameter packings for high-pressure cylinders use two-
Frame Model Base Rate point lube. For multiple lube points, the required
cylinder or packing lubricant divides equally
JG:A:I:M:P:N:Q:R:S:W, 0.3 (0.0056)
KB100 among the lube points.
JGH:E:J:ACF, KBE 0.4 (0.0074) Recommended Daily Lube Rate Calculation

JGK:T:C:D:F:Z:U:B:V, 0.5 (0.0093) Example
KBK:T:C:D:F:Z:U:B:V
JGJ/2, with Pipeline Quality Natural Gas (see
Table: Cylinder/Packing Oil Requirements for
Special Lubricant Certification - Lubricant
Various Gas Stream Components), the following
suppliers offer special lubricant formulations for
actual cylinder bore diameters as shown on
specific applications. Suppliers who certify
cylinder data plate, 1.5 inch (38.1 mm) diameter
formulation suitability for site conditions should
piston rod, with mineral oil lubricant:
provide appropriate documentation. Contact
Ariel to verify warranty coverage. • 13.00"J (330 mm) at 100 psi discharge pres-
sure (6.89 bar). Factor = 1.
NOTE: These lubrication recommendations are • 9.75"J-CE (248 mm) at 577 psi discharge pres-
general guidelines. Contact lubricant supplier for sure (39.8 bar), Crank End. Factor = 1.
specific lubricant that meets Table: Cylinder/Packing • 5.125"J-HE (130 mm) at 1636 psi discharge
Oil Requirements for Various Gas Stream Compo- pressure (112.8 bar), Head End. Factor = 1.25.
nents guidelines.
• Appropriate gas conditioning to remove

liquids and debris is required for effective
cylinder and packing lubrication.
• If lubrication appears inadequate, the lubri-
cant and flow rate will need reviewed.
Rate Calculation Notes

Packing Lube Rate - Double piston rod diameter
and treat it like a cylinder to calculate packing
lube rate. For cylinders with a tail rod, calculate
lube rate for each of the two packings separately
and add both values toward the recommended
total daily lube rate.
Lube Points - Cylinders for JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:H:E:J,

KBE, and KB100 frames with bore diameters less
than 13" (<330 mm) have one-point bore lube as
standard. Except for KBE frames, top and bottom
bore lube is available as an original purchase
option. Cylinders for all other frames, including

Table: Cylinder & Packing Lube Calculation, Pints Per Day (Liters Per Day)
Cylinder Bore Packing Sub-Total
1 x 13.00 in. x 0.4 ppd/in. = 5.2 2 x 1.5 in. x 0.4 ppd/in. = 1.2 6.4
1 x 9.75 in. x 0.4 ppd/in. = 3.9 2 x 1.5 in. x 0.4 ppd/in. = 1.2 5.1
1.25 x 5.125 in. x 0.4 ppd/in. = 2.6 N/A 2.6
Recommended Total, ppda = 14.1
1 x 330 mm x 0.0074 lpd/mm = 2.4 2 x 38.1 mm x 0.0074 lpd/mm = 0.56 (3.0)
1 x 248 mm x 0.0074 lpd/mm = 1.8 2 x 38.1 mm x 0.0074 lpd/mm = 0.56 (2.4)
1.25 x 130 mm x 0.0074 lpd/mm = 1.2 N/A (1.2)
Recommended Total, (lpd)b = (6.6)
a ppd = pints per day.

b lpd = liters per day
Cycle Time Lube Rate and Speed - Recommended lube

rates for break-in or normal operation, in
Lubricant flow rates are measured in seconds per
seconds per cycle, are calculated at the frame
cycle of the distribution block. The calculated
rated speed (RPM) stamped on the frame data
break-in and normal cycle times are stamped on
plate or the cylinder rated RPM stamped on the
the lubricator box data plate. These cycle times
cylinder data plate, whichever is lower. Lube rate
are calculated based on the gas analysis,
decreases with speed, (as compressor actual
operating conditions, and applied speed
running speed decreases, cycle time increases,
specified in the compressor order. If gas
reducing lube rate):
conditions were not supplied with the
compressor order, the data plate/lube sheet (RPMmax ÷ RPMactual) x cycle time seconds from
rates default to clean, dry, 0.65 specific gravity, lube plate = cycle time seconds at actual running
sweet gas and cylinder MAWP. If the applied speed.
speed is not specified, the cycle time is based on
See the Ariel Parts Book Lubrication Sheets for
maximum rated speed of the frame or cylinders,
the Cycle Time (seconds) vs. RPM (compressor
whichever is less. The lube sheets in the Ariel
speed) table at various running speeds at stated
Parts Book state gas conditions and list the base
gas operating conditions and lubricant.
rate multiplier at each lube point.
Adjusting the cycle time changes the lubrication
rate for all the compressor cylinders and
packings supplied by a particular pump. To
change the lubrication rate for only one cylinder
or packing requires individual divider valve
changes. Contact your packager or Ariel for
information.

To set proper force-feed lubricator pump flow 4. Pump clean oil common to the system into
rate, read or measure the cycle time from the the purge port until no air bubbles flow from
installed device. For a magnetic cycle indicator the tubing connection at the primary distri-
assembly, time the cycle from initial indicator pin bution block inlet. Always hold purge pump
movement at the fully retracted position to the in a vertical position to avoid pumping air
time when the pin returns to the fully retracted into the system.
position and just begins initial movement out
5. While bubble-free oil flows at the primary
again. Adjust the lubricator pump to provide the
distribution block inlet, tighten the tubing
required cycle time.
connection.
NOTE: Pump output can become inconsistent if flow 6. Continue to operate the purge pump until no
rate is set too low. air bubbles flow from the tubing connection
at the secondary distribution block inlet, if
Changes in operating conditions (such as gas applicable.
properties or pressures, temperatures, flow
requirements, or cylinder re-configuration) 7. While bubble-free oil flows at the secondary
require lubrication rate re-calculation and distribution block inlet, tighten the tubing
possible force-feed lubrication system connections.
alteration. Consult Table: Cylinder/Packing Oil 8. Continue to operate the purge pump until no
Requirements for Various Gas Stream air bubbles flow from the tubing connections
Components, the Packager, and/or Ariel. at the cylinder or packing gland injection
points.
System Operation 9. While bubble-free oil flows at the cylinder and
packing gland injection points, tighten the
tubing connections.
Purging the Force Feed Lube
System
1. System must be purged if any connections
have been opened, or before initial
compressor start-up.
2. Loosen tubing connections at the inlet of the
primary distribution block, cylinder, and
packing gland injection points. Also loosen
tubing connections at secondary distribution
block inlet, if applicable.
3. Connect the purge pump to the pump

discharge manifold purge port.

Force Feed Lubricator Adjustment • Better additive solvency

• South Louisiana crude
Verify the force feed lubricator is set at the break- • Solvent refined or hydro-treated
in rate shown on the force feed lubricator data • Lower wax content
plate (see "Throw and Data Plate Locations" in • Viscosity Index less than 80
the appropriate Maintenance & Repair Manual). • Lower Pour Point than paraffinic oils
1. To adjust, loosen locknut and turn the pump
plunger stroke adjustment screw until the Synthetic Lubricants
indicator strokes at the proper rate, then
tighten locknut. Synthetic lubricants are man-made with more
consistent, controlled chemical structures than
Lubricant Characteristics petroleum lubricants. They improve viscosity
predictability and thermal stability for much
higher viscosity indexes than mineral oils.
Lubricant Base Stock Additives can modify all common lubrication
characteristics to meet or exceed mineral oil
Common compressor lubricants include
performance. Three major synthetic lubricants
petroleum based oils and synthetic fluids. All
exist: PAO, Diester, and PAG.
lubricant formulations start with base stock.
Lubricant additives improve specific properties NOTE: Most synthetic lubricants of proper viscosity
such as: are acceptable for Ariel compressors. Check with the
• Viscosity Index lubricant supplier or Ariel before using ANY lubricant,
• Oxidation and Rust Inhibition or for questions about lubricant applicability.
• Pour Point
• Detergency Polyalphaolefins (PAO) - Synthesized
• Anti-Wear Protection Hydrocarbons
• Extreme Pressure Protection
• Friction Characteristics • Compatible with mineral oils
• "Washing" Resistance • Most of the same properties as mineral oils
• Requires additives to improve
detergent action and improve seal compati-
Petroleum-Based Lubricants bility
(Mineral Oils) • Soluble in hydrocarbon gases
• Low Pour Point
Paraffinic Oils • High Viscosity Index of about 150
• Most common mineral oil base stock • High Flash Point
• West Texas Intermediate or Arab Light
• Solvent refined or hydro-treated Organic Esters - Diesters and
• Higher wax content Polyolesters
• Viscosity Index greater than 90
• Compatible with mineral oils, PAO & PAG oils
• Pour point around 25°F (-4°C)
• Incompatible with some rubbers (o-rings),
Napthenic Oils plastics, and paints; compatible with Viton

• Higher Viscosity achieved with additives or R&O Oil

blending with heavier oils
• Low Viscosity of about 85-90 cSt at 40°C Rust and oxidation inhibited (R&O) oil is a very
• Primarily used in air compressors good selection for compressor frames and many
• Leaves a soft carbon deposit when oxidized force feed systems. This oil is a very simple oil
• Breaks down in water comprised of base stock, corrosion inhibitors,
• Higher Flash Point than mineral oils and anti-wear and antioxidant additives. Base
• Low Viscosity Index of about 70 stock viscosity determines finished product
viscosity.
Polyalkylene Glycols (PAG)
• Very good for high pressure applications Compounded Cylinder Oils
• Does not foul reservoirs. Excellent for reinjec-
tion applications. Compounded oils are formulated for steam
• Resistant to hydrocarbon gas dilution. and/or compressor cylinders. They enhance oil
• Most are water soluble, verify application film strength to counter the effects of water, wet
with lubricant supplier gases, solvents, etc. present in gas.
• Not compatible with mineral or PAO oils, Additives contain an animal, vegetable fat, or
some plastics and paints
synthetic base. Animal and vegetable based
• Requires complete system flush when
additives yield low oxidation resistance and poor
changing to or from mineral or PAO oils
performance at high temperatures. However,
• Compatible with Viton and HNBR
most compounded oils today use synthetic
• Poor inherent oxidation stability and corro-
sion protection - requires additives instead of natural additives.
• Not recommended for air compressors
NOTE: Do not use compounded oil in a compressor
• Very high Viscosity Index greater than 200
frame; the additives are incompatible with lead based
bearing materials.
Lubricant Formulations
A single base stock can yield many different oils Engine Oil
by changing additives. Most oils can be
formulated with either a mineral oil or synthetic Engine oil is formulated for internal combustion
base. Additives can significantly alter oil physical engines. It counteracts negative effects of
characteristics and suitability for specific combustion and helps keep combustion
applications. Additives can account for up to 30% products (soot, water, CO2) away from engine
of oil volume. moving parts. It attracts water and soot and
keeps it in suspension until the filter removes it.
Some of these additives may prove detrimental
to cylinder and packing lubrication. Engine oil
additives may include:
• Detergents to remove deposits around
moving parts.

• Dispersants to prevent deposit formation and also in cylinders and coolers. To eliminate the
soot accumulation. problem, completely remove all emulsions and
• Corrosion inhibitors to prevent rust and thoroughly clean all equipment. Re-start
corrosion. compressor using R&O oil or some other
• Antioxidants to neutralize radicals that appropriate non-detergent oil.
oxidize oil.
• Anti-wear additives to help prevent metal to
metal contact. Used Engine Oil
• Viscosity improvers (primarily for multi-
Used engine oil supplied for cylinders and
viscosity oil).
packing lubrication must meet requirements for
• Pour point depressants to reduce the
temperature at which oil solidifies. cylinder and packing lubrication and be
• Anti-foam agents to help break up foam from appropriately filtered (ß5=10 and ß12=75 with an
air entrainment. ISO 4406 cleanliness code of 17:16:14 ). Monitor
oil viscosity to verify adequate quality.
Ash is not an additive; it is a heavy metal residue
left over when oil burns. Some detergents,
dispersants, and anti-wear additives contain Liquids in Gas
heavy metals like calcium, barium, magnesium,
Higher viscosity lubricants or specially
phosphorous, zinc, or sodium. When oil burns on
compounded lubricants can compensate
hot engine parts, these heavy metals remain and
somewhat for liquids in the gas stream.
build a barrier that helps prevent wear such as
valve seat recession. For the most effective cylinder and packing
lubrication, remove liquids from gas before it
Engine oil works satisfactorily in compressor
enters the compressor. These lubrication
frames and in many force feed systems for
recommendations are general guidelines. If
gathering or transmission applications. Engine
recommended lubricants or flow rates appear
oil is usually not the best choice for compressor
inadequate, review both. Contact lubricant
lubrication. Previous experience, inventory
supplier for specific lubricant
control, or maintenance simplicity may outweigh
recommendations.
benefits of a different oil.
Engine oil commonly forms emulsions in the

compressor cylinders/piping and can affect
performance of downstream equipment.
Detergent additives allow the oil to suspend
water resulting in a gel-like mixture that does not
separate into its components. If gas contains
enough water, it mixes with the detergents and
emulsifies. Emulsions usually accumulate in
downstream equipment such as scrubbers, but

Cooled Packing
Compressor packing cases may require cooling
in keeping with Figure: Packing Cooling
Application Guidelines. Cooled packing cases
help remove heat as piston rod/packing friction
increases with higher pressures and piston
speed.
Figure: Packing Cooling Application Guidelines

1 Region #1 - Standard Packing
2 Region #2 - Packing Cooling
Required
3 Region #3 - DO NOT apply
cylinders in this region
without Ariel approval.
• All forged steel cylinder packing cases must • Packing cooling must be a closed system.
be connected to a cooling system. Maintain coolant quality through a sampling
• All non-lubricated cylinder packing cases and treatment program to prevent corrosion,
must be connected to a cooling system. mineral, or other deposits. This typically
• Approval is required if packing is not cooled requires coolant free of particulates and
when applied within Region 2. Approval is minerals. Treat coolant with appropriate
required for any unit applied within Region 3. additives, and anti-freeze if subject to
Contact either Ariel Technical Services or freezing.
Applications Engineering for review.

Packager Standards Manual – Cooled Packing 06/26/2023
Figure: Typical Cooled Packing Case

1 Coolant Flow
2 Coolant Out
3 Coolant In
4 Purge
5 Vent
6 Lube
Coolant System Requirements

Coolant flow = number of packing cases x 1 US
gallon per minute (gpm), minimum for each inch
of piston rod diameter (No. cases x 0.149 l/min for
each mm of piston rod diameter). Based on using
a solution of 50/50 treated water/glycol solution.
See Figure: Typical Packing Cooling System.

Packager Standards Manual – Cooled Packing 06/26/2023
Figure: Typical Packing Cooling System

PI Pressure Indicator
TI Temperature Indicator
FI Flow Indicator
LG Level Gauge
1 Packing Case
2 Throttling Valve
3 Isolation Valve
4 Surge Tank
5 Strainer
6 Water Pump
7 Cooler
Example: JGK/2 with 2.0 inch (50.8 mm) diameter

piston rod.
• 2 packing cases x 1 gpm per inch of rod diam-
eter x 2.0 inch rod diameter = 4 gpm
• (2 packing cases x 0.149 l/min per mm of rod
diameter x 50.8 mm rod diameter = 15.1
l/min)
Cooler size = number of cases x 70
BTU/minute/inch of rod diameter (number of
cases x 0.05 kW/mm of rod diameter). Pressure
drop depends on several factors including flow
rate and fluid, but should generally be 10-30 psi
(0.7-2.1 bar). Coolant into the packing must not
exceed 130°F maximum (54°C max.). Lower
coolant temperature increases heat transfer
from the packing and may be required in high-
pressure applications.
Coolant inlet pressure should be 40-80 psig (2.8-

5.5 barg). 300 psig (20.7 barg) is the maximum to
preserve the o-ring seal between the cups.

Packing and Distance Piece Vent Systems

Distance piece compartments must be vented to Vent and Drain Connections
a safe location due to potential gas leakage. This
section identifies some methods to safely route Packing Purge (optional) - The packing case can
this leaking gas to atmospheric vents, flare be purged with sweet natural gas or inert gas at a
systems, or vent gas recovery systems. Special pressure exceeding the packing vent back-
notes: pressure to prevent process gas from entering
the distance piece.
• Remove distance piece covers to confirm
internal tubing connection types and loca- Distance Piece Vent – Gas may leak from this
tions. vent as the packing case wears and packing vent
• Limit distance piece compartment pressure gas back-pressure builds.
to 25 psig (1.7 barg).
• Do not plug vents to use drains for venting. Packing Vent/Drain – This connection vents gas
• Do not reduce the connection sizes provided leakage from the packing assembly, preventing it
by Ariel. from entering the distance piece. The leakage
• Increase to minimum 3/8 inch tubing from includes oil; route the connection to a separation
the 1/4” NPT connection (see item 3, Figure: pot to remove oil before routing to a gas vent,
Typical Vent/Drain Connections) for packing flare, or recovery system.
vent/drain.
• For a remotely mounted crankcase breather, Distance Piece Drain(s) – Some distance pieces
configure piping to prevent back pressure may have two drains, as shown in Figure: Typical
and piping condensation drainage into the Vent/Drain Connections. Connect both drains to
crankcase. Do not connect the crankcase the drain system.
breather to a packing and distance piece vent
system. Figure: Typical Vent/Drain Connections
• When a purge system is applied, a maintained
level in the oil separation pot is preferred to
the use of check valves (separating the
packing vent/drain from each distance piece
vent and drain).
• The oil separation pot drain valve must be
controlled to ensure a maximum and a
minimum oil level so oil drains properly while
preventing gas from venting through the
drain system.
1 Typical Vent/Drain Connections

2 Distance Piece Vent
3 Packing Vent/Drain
4 Distance Piece Drain

Packager Standards Manual – Packing and Distance Piece Vent Systems 06/26/2023
Table: Distance Piece Vent and Drain NPT Connection Sizes, Inches
Frame Outboard Vent Connection Distance Piece Drain Connection
JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J, KB100 1/4 1/4
JGH:E:K:T (STD/S2C), KBE:K:T:C:D:F, 3/4 1/2

JGC:D:F
JGH:E:K:T (L2C) 3/4 3/4
KBZ:U 1 1/2
KBB:V 1-1/2 1/2
Table: Typ. Packing Vent/Drain Leakage Rates

New Worn
0.1 - 0.2 cfm 2 - 4 cfm
6 - 12 c 120 - 240 cfh
0.15 - 0.3 m3/hr 2 - 7 m3/hr
Piping Manifold Size Whenever two lines are manifolded together, the
Considerations combined line size should equal the added areas
of the incoming two lines. For example, if two 3/4
Worn or damaged pressure packing rings can inch lines meet, a 1 inch line is appropriate after
result in high vent flow rates and increased back the connection. This includes packing vent/drain
pressure on the vent line. Size venting lines as well as distance piece vents and drains. Larger
sufficiently to avoid back pressure exceeding 25 sizes may be necessary to allow proper draining
psi (1.7 bar) on the distance piece compartments. for lines that can contain oil.
When routed to a flare system, review flare upset Size drain lines generously to allow proper
conditions. Other equipment can provide a large draining when adequate slopes are not possible.
flare pressure that causes back pressure to the
distance piece compartments.
Atmospheric Vent System
To avoid back pressure from a short term flare
pressure (seconds), install a check valve on the Route the packing vent/drain to a separation pot
main vent between the compressor system and to remove lube oil from the vent line before
the flare (downstream of the drain pots). routing to the vent destination.
Manifold distance piece drains separately from

the packing vent/drain line to the separation pot
to ensure packing vent gas does not flow back
through the distance piece drains, preventing
proper distance piece drainage.

The vent leaving the oil separation tank must be

large enough to freely flow the total of individual
packing vents in worn condition.
Figure: Venting to Atmosphere

4 VVCP Gas Vent (see Typical
VVCP Figure)
5 Oil Separation Pot
6 To Drain
7 Vent to Atmosphere
8 Distance Piece Vent to Atmo-
sphere
Flare Vent System If the VVCP has one vent connection, do not
connect the VVCP gas vent to the flare vent
Route the packing vent/drain to a separation pot system. The flare vent system back-pressure will
to remove lube oil from the vent line before flow gas back through the VVCP vent and across
routing to the vent destination. the stem threads. If the VVCP has two vent
connections, connect the vent closest to the
cylinder to the distance piece vent line. Leave the
second vent connection open to the atmosphere.
See Figure: Venting to Flare.
The vent leaving the oil separation tank must be

large enough to freely flow the total of individual
packing vents in worn condition.

Figure: Venting to Flare

4 VVCP Gas Vent (see Typical
VVCP Figure)
6 Low Cracking Pressure Check
Valve
7 To Drain
8 Vent to Flare
9 Distance Piece Vent to Flare
10 Vent to Atmosphere
Vent System for Close-Coupled

Packing
Only JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J and KB100 compressor
models use close-coupled packings. Route
packing vent/drain to a separation pot to remove
lube oil from vent line before routing to vent
destination.


Figure: Close-Coupled Packing Vent/Drain
JG:A:M:N:Q:R:J KB100
1 Distance Piece Vent 3 Distance Piece Drain 5 To Vent Collection
2 Packing Vent/Drain 4 Oil Separation Pot 6 To Drain
Purge and Vent Systems

Purge systems are used in applications that
require better gas leakage containment for
safety or environmental reasons. Units
compressing gas containing more than 100 ppm
hydrogen sulfide gas or hydrogen rich gas are
common applications for purge gas systems.
Common purge gases include sweet natural gas

or nitrogen. Do not purge with air. Small amounts
of purge gas can leak into the atmosphere
through the frame, so use a purge gas that can be
permitted to leak in small quantities.

Figure: Typical Purge & Vent Packing
1 Wiper Seal Set 2 Intermediate 3 Purge In 4 Gas Leakage 5 Packing

(partition) Seal from around Rod Vent/Drain
Set
Introduce purge gas pressure at the distance Purged Vent System for Long Two-
piece purge connection to the pressure packing Compartment Distance Piece
case downstream of the packing vent/drain.
Maintain purge gas pressure 10 to 15 psi (0.7 to 1 Three separate vents route from the throw: the
bar) higher than packing vent back-pressure. The packing vent/drain, and outboard and inboard
higher pressure creates a barrier to ensure distance piece vents and drains. Keep these
packing gas leakage routes through the packing vents separate from each other.
vent/drain connection. Expected purge rates are
Maintain a liquid level in the separation pot to act
5 cfh (0.14 m3/hr) per purge point. as a liquid check valve between the vent lines. Fill
When purging the intermediate (partition) the separation pot before initial start up.
and/or wiper seal sets, apply 10 to 15 psi (0.7 to 1 Though the liquid level in the separation pot is
bar) differential pressure, similar to pressure preferred, mechanical check valves can separate
packing purge. the vent lines. Do not install a check valve on the
An eductor or vacuum pump can be used to lower packing vent drain line.
the vent system pressure, or to route vent gas to In a long two-compartment guide, the pressure
higher disposal pressures. Set vacuum pressure packing case, intermediate (partition) packing
to a light vacuum (up to several inches of water case, and wiper seal case can be purged.
column) to avoid drawing air into the system.

Figure: Long Two-Compartment Vent and Purge

2 Distance Piece Vent-Outboard
3 Distance Piece Drain-Outboard
4 Distance Piece Vent-Inboard
5 Distance Piece Drain-Inboard
6 Purge
8 Low Cracking Pressure Check Valve
9 Check Valve - Install either for non-lube
applications or when a liquid level check
is not used.
10 Intermediate and Wiper Purge Gas
11 Packing Purge Gas
12 To Vent Collection
13 To Drain
14 Max. Level
15 Min. Level
Non-Lube Configurations In a short two-compartment guide, the pressure

packing case can be purged.
Due to lack of lubrication drainage in non-lube
service, either change and maintain a liquid level The vent and drain closest to the cylinder leak
in the separation pot, or install check valves on gas only if there is a seal leakage at installation.
the distance piece drains. Check valves are This compartment vents gas from the crank end
recommended to isolate the distance piece head seal, packing case nose gasket, cup-to-cup
compartments from the packing vent. seal faces, or loose packing bolts.
Purged Vent System for Short

Two- Compartment Distance Piece
Three separate vents route from the throw: the
packing vent/drain, and the outboard and
inboard distance piece vents and drains. Keep
these vents separate from each other.

as a liquid check valve between the vent lines. Fill
the separation pot before initial start up.
Though the liquid level in the separation pot is

preferred, mechanical check valves can separate
the vent lines. Do not install a check valve on the
packing vent drain line.

Figure: Short Two- Compartment Vent and Purge

2 Distance Piece Vent-Inboard
3 Distance Piece Drain-Inboard
4 Distance Piece Vent-Outboard
5 Distance Piece Drain-Outboard
6 Purge
9 Packing Purge Gas
11 To Drain
12 Max. Level
13 Min. Level
Purged Vent System for KBE:K:T:C:D:F:Z:U frames do not offer a short

KBE:K:T:C:D:F:Z:U Single Distance two-compartment distance piece option. For
sour gas service, the wiper seal is configured with
Piece a purge seal set when the pressure packing purge
Two separate vents route from the throw: the option is provided.
packing vent/drain and the distance piece vents
and drains. Keep these vents separate from each
other.

as a liquid check valve between the vent lines. Fill
the separation pot before initial start up.
Though the liquid level in the separation pot is

preferred, mechanical check valves can separate
the vent lines. Do not install a check valve on the
packing vent drain line.

Figure: Single Compartment Vent and Purge with Wiper Seal Purge
4 Purge
7 Packing & Wiper Seal Purge
9 To Drain
10 Max. Level
11 Min. Level
Purged Vent System for Single Supply the packing case purge at a pressure of
Distance Piece with Sweep Purge 10-15 psi (0.7 to 1 bar) above the packing vent
back pressure. Supply the distance piece sweep
A long single compartment distance piece can be purge at a regulated flow rate of 5 scfh (0.14
configured to reduce gas leakage to the m3/hr). The distance piece compartment is both
atmosphere with a packing case purge and a purged and vented, allowing the purge gas to
distance piece sweep purge. “sweep” the compartment.

Single compartment distance piece

configuration can be used with a pressure
packing purge to control emissions. A distance
piece flow or sweep purge can be added for
greater reliability.
Figure: Single Compartment Sweep Purge

4 Packing Pressure Purge
5 Distance Piece Flow (sweep) Purge
8 Packing Purge 10- 15 psi (0.7-1.0 bar)
above Packing Vent
9 Distance Piece Sweep Purge 5 scfh (0.14
m3/hr) Regulated Flow
11 To Drain
12 Max. Level
13 Min. Level
Monitoring a Purge and Vent System monitoring methods include the

System following (see Section 9 - Instrumentation for
additional information):
Maintenance of the system and wearing parts is • Packing vent gas temperature out of the
crucial to success. As the packing wears, leakage packing case. Monitor packing vent line
rate increases can overcome the application of temperature immediately outside the
the purge gas. distance piece. Higher leakage flow rates

have higher tubing temperatures. If section where oil in the line is not a concern.
immersing a temperature device in the vent An RTD style mass flow meter may be used in
line for vent gas temperatures, route the larger line sizes.
installation to prevent the hot oil in the line
from contacting the probe as this spikes the
temperature. Capacity Control Device Vents
• Packing case temperature. Install a
temperature element in the packing case in
lieu of monitoring packing vent/drain tubing Variable Volume Clearance Pocket
temperature manually. Vents
• Purge gas to vent gas differential pressure.
A differential pressure gauge across the purge In a single-vent VVCP, the gas vent is not sealed
gas and packing vent/drain line provides a from the atmosphere at the operator end of the
positive indication the vent line flow is not stem. Route this gas vent to an atmospheric vent.
creating more back pressure than the purge Do not connect it to a vent that can have back-
gas pressure. pressure. In a double-vent VVCP, the vent closest
• Packing vent flow. Packing flow measure- to the cylinder can be connected to the frame
ments must consider the oil in the packing end distance piece piping. Leave the second vent
vent/drain lines. Either remove the oil from
open to the atmosphere.
the line prior to measurement, or install an
appropriate flow meter into a larger pipe
Figure: Typical VVCP

Double-Vent VVCP Single-Vent VVCP
1 Step-Cut joint Piston Ring 1 Step-Cut joint Piston Ring

2 Gas Vent (1/4 NPT to 1/4 tube fitting) 2 Open to Atmosphere (1/4 NPT to 1/4 tube fitting)
3 Open to Atmosphere 3 Grease Fitting
4 Grease Fitting 4 Unloader Stem Seal
5 Unloader Stem Seal

Pneumatic Capacity Control

Devices
Fixed Volume Clearance Pockets

Figure: Typical Pneumatic Fixed Volume Clearance Pocket
1 Closed
2 Open
Fixed volume clearance pockets include control • GV2: Vent to safe atmosphere (no back-pres-
and vent connections: sure). Vents any leakage of actuation media
past the primary gas seal. The second seal
• GV1: Gas + actuation gas vent. Vent to safe
prevents gas leakage into the atmosphere.
atmosphere (no back-pressure). Vents any
GV2 need not be tubed away if air is the actu-
leakage past the primary gas seal. The second
ation medium.
seal prevents gas leakage into the cylinder
• AV1: Vent to safe atmosphere (no back-pres-
side of the actuator piston. Due to this two
sure). Vents cylinder side of actuator piston.
seal configuration, this vent can be
connected to the vent system at low pres- • GVD: Normally plugged. Use to drain or vent
sure. pocket, if needed.
• CM: Actuation gas inlet for control media.
Typical control pressures range from 70 to
125 psig (4.8 - 8.6 barg).
NOTE: Consult Ariel unit specific parts manual or
contact Ariel for actual control media pressure
requirements. A check valve is required upstream
of the solenoid.
• Apply control pressure to CM to close pocket
and load cylinder end.

Suction Valve Unloaders

Figure: Typical Suction Valve Unloader
Suction valve unloaders include control and vent

connections:
• CM: Actuation gas inlet for control media. Use
to apply control pressure: 60-100 psig (4.1 -
6.9 barg).
NOTE: Consult Ariel unit specific parts manual or
contact Ariel for actual control media pressure
requirements. A check valve is required upstream
of the solenoid.
• Apply control pressure to CM to deactivate
valve and unload cylinder end.
• GV1: Gas + actuation gas vent. Vent to safe
atmosphere (no back-pressure). Vents any
process gas leakage past the stem seal. Since
this is a single seal configuration, this vent
can be connected only to a low pressure vent
system or safe atmosphere.
• AV1: Vent to safe atmosphere (no back-pres-
sure). Vents cylinder side of actuator piston.

Figure: Typical Control Schematic
1 Control Pressure Source 5 Supply Line 10 Fixed Volume Clearance Pocket

2 System Accumulator or Storage 6 Regulator (if required) 11 Suction Valve Unloader
Vessel 7 Local Accumulator (if required) 12 To Safe Vent
3 Pressure Relief Valve 8 Full-Port Check Valve 13 Control Signal from Panel or PLC
4 Filter/Separator 9 3-Way Full-Port Control Valve
Installation Notes 2. Do not exceed maximum control pressure as

listed on the device. Maximum pressure
CAUTION varies on fixed volume clearance pockets.
Install backflow protection between the supply source Maximum pressure on suction valve unloader
and the solenoids to prevent over-pressure of plant air actuators is 150 psig (10.34 barg).
compressors or other supply sources in the event of
actuator seal failure. 3. Use minimum 3/8 inch (9.53 mm) O.D. tubing
throughout.
1. Ariel recommends clean air or inert gas to
activate the actuator.

4. An electrically activated solenoid operating a

3-port, 2-position control valve regulates
control pressure. Place control valve to mini-
mize tubing length between the control valve
and actuators:
• Below 800 RPM, tube length between the

control valve and the actuators must be
less than 15 feet (4.57 m).
• Above 800 RPM, tube length must be less
than 10 feet (3.05 m).
Apply or release control pressure quick-
ly to ensure proper device activa-
tion/deactivation:
• For suction valve unloaders, less than or
equal to three revolutions of the
compressor.
• For fixed volume clearance pockets, less
than or equal to two seconds.
5. The control valve flow coefficient (Cv) must
be no less than 1.6. Attach no devices or
tubing to the exhaust port that would reduce
vent flow.
6. The unloader assembly drawing or part list

specifies control pressure required to
operate the actuators. Ariel recommends
monitoring and alarming operating gas pres-
sure to prevent operation below this value.
7. Always leave actuator vents open to ensure

safe and effective unloader operation. Do not
allow paint to block vents.
When process gas is toxic, flammable, or in any

other way objectionable in the compressor
building, pipe the lower vent to carry any leakage
away. Use vent tubing no less than 3/8 inch (9.53
mm) O.D., and if combined with any other vent
system, allow no back pressure or vacuum in this
piping.

Instrumentation
Packagers must provide safety shutdowns, CAUTION
controls, and instrumentation to ensure the
DO NOT drill holes in cylinders or other pressure
compressor system operates within published containing components for any purpose. Pressure
Ariel limits. The use of “alarm” instead of containing components include cylinders, valve caps,
“shutdown” for any minimum instrumentation cylinder heads, unloaders, gas passage caps, and
flanges.
requirement may result in equipment damage.
Additional information for control and
instrumentation may be found in the appropriate CAUTION
Ariel Maintenance and Repair Manual. Any arc welding on the skid and/or associated
equipment and piping can permanently damage solid-
NOTE: Ariel recommends the use of shipboard or state electronic equipment. Welding can cause
immediate failure or reduce electronic equipment life
armored cabling as opposed to wiring in conduit to and void the warranty. To protect electronic equipment
minimize nuisance shutdowns due to wire chafing prior to any arc welding (including repair welding),
and shorts. Cable in cable trays also facilitates main- disconnect all electrical connections including ground,
tenance access. and remove batteries, or completely remove the
electronic equipment from the compressor.
It is good practice to attach the welding ground clamp as
close as possible to the area where the welding will
occur and to use the lowest practical welder output
setting. Welding must not cause a current flow across
any compressor bearing surface, including but not
limited to crankshaft and crosshead bearing surfaces.
Table: Required Instrumentation Summary

INSTRUMENT SUPPLIER SETTING/REQUIREMENT
Frame Oil System (see "Frame Oil System Components")
Oil Pressure Packager
- Start Permissive with Pre-lube Pump 30 psig (2.1 barg) for 2 minutes
- Run Permissive 45 psig (3.1 barg) within 10 seconds of start
- Alarm 50 psig (3.4 barg)
- Shutdown 45 psig (3.1 barg)
Oil Filter Differential Ariel
- JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:J:H:E, KB100, JGK:T/2/4, Change at 10 psi (0.7 bar) or 6 months of operation, whichever
KBE:K:T/2/4, JGC:D:F/2, KBC:D:F/2 occurs first. Do not exceed 12 month installed period for filter
element.
- JGC:D:F/4/6, JGK:T/6, KBK:T/6, KBC:D:F/4/6, Change at 15 psi (1.0 bar) or 6 months of operation, whichever
KBB:V:Z:U occurs first. Do not exceed 12 month installed period for filter
element.
Oil Temperature Packager

Packager Standards Manual – Instrumentation 06/26/2023
- Minimum, to start-up or to load See "Viscosity" for max. oil viscosity based on frame size.
- Minimum, operating 150°F (66°C)
- Maximum, shutdown 190°F (88°C)
Crankcase Level Packager 1/2 to 2/3 sight glass level
- Low Level Shutdown 1/4 sight glass level
Main Bearing Temp. Ariel Standard on B:V:Z:U. Recommended, but optional on

JG:A:R:J:H:E:K:T:C:D:F & KBE:K:T.
Thrust Bearing Temp. Ariel Standard on B:V, optional on JGC:D:F:Z:U and KBZ:U.
- Alarm +20°F (11°C) above normal not to exceed 220°F (104°C)
- Shutdown +30°F (17°C) above normal not to exceed 230°F (110°C)
- Differential Alarm 20°F (11°C)
- Differential Shutdown 30°F (17°C)
Packing Case Temp. Ariel Optional
- Alarm +20°F (11°C) above normal
- Shutdown +30°F (17°C) above normal
Packing Case Vent Packager Optional
- Vent Flow Alarm 2 - 4 scfm (per throw)
- Vent Flow Shutdown > 4 scfm (per throw)
Scrubber Liquid Level Packager
- High Liquid Level Control
- High Liquid Level Shutdown
Gas Conditions Packager
- Inlet Temperature Indicator, each cylinder
- Inlet Pressure Indicator, each stage
- Discharge Pressure Indicator, each stage
- Discharge Temperature Indicator, each cylinder, each nozzle on dual nozzle cylinders
- High Discharge Temperature Shutdown, each 10% above normala (Not to exceed the maximum temperatures
cylinder below)
- Lubricated Cylinders 350°F (177°C)
- Non-Lube/PRC Cylinders 325°F (163°C)
- Hydrogen Rich > 50% < 0.41 Specific Gravity 300°F (149°C)

- Air Not to exceed autoignition temperature of cylinder lubricant at

discharge pressure
- Relief Valve Setting above normal operating • Up to 150: 15 psig (1.0 barg)
pressure (not to exceed MAWP) • to 2500: 10%
• to 3500: 8%
• to 5000: 6%
• Over 5000: As agreed
• See Relief Valves.
Cyl. Rod Load Protection Packager
High Vibration Shutdown Packager As close to a normal level as practical. See "Table: Typical
Vibration Levels for Ariel Reciprocating Compressors".
Over Speed Packager 10% over rated speed for shutdown
a Example: Normal Discharge Temp. = 270°F; Shutdown Setting = 270 x 1.1 = 297°F.
Notes 3. Mount overhead lube oil supply tanks high

enough to provide oil flow to the level control
1. Install the compressor frame low lube oil
at all ambient temperatures.
pressure shutdown set to stop the unit if oil
pressure downstream of the filter falls below 4. On multi-nozzle cylinders, Ariel strongly
45 psig (3.1 barg). Compressor operation for recommends a temperature device in both
only a few seconds without oil pressure discharge nozzles.
causes major damage. Normal oil pressure is
5. Install the high lube oil inlet temperature
about 60 psig (4.1 barg) at full rated speed
shutdown at the filter inlet connection.
and normal operating temperature. The low
oil pressure shutdown must activate after oil 6. At a minimum, install one vibration shutdown
pressure exceeds 45 psig (3.1 barg) at start- for two and four throw frames and two for six
up. Ariel provides a 1/4 inch tubing fitting to throw frames. Mount vibration devices near
connect the low lube oil pressure shutdown the top of the frame with the sensitive axis
and ties a tag to this connection before each parallel to the piston rod axis.
compressor ships. Do not operate the
7. Install all safety shutdowns, controls, instru-
compressor for prolonged periods at less
mentation, ignition systems, electrical
than 50 psig (3.4 barg) oil pressure.
devices, and high temperature piping (gas
2. Automated pre-lube systems require a start discharge and engine exhaust) in accordance
permissive to sense minimum required pres- with good engineering practice and appli-
sure/time at oil gallery inlet.See “Compressor cable codes for the area classification at the
Pre-lube System”. Unit must shut down if the end user location. Ensure compatibility of all
system fails to achieve 45 psig (3.1 barg) oil systems for area classification.
pressure within 10 seconds after crankshaft
starts to turn.

8. If packing vent temperature is monitored, Resistance Temperature Devices (RTD)

confirm alarm and shutdown set points
through vent flow rates. Figure: Typical Dual Element RTD Wiring
Diagram
Ariel Supplied End Devices

CAUTION
Any arc welding on the skid and/or associated

equipment and piping can permanently damage solid-
state electronic equipment. Welding can cause
immediate failure or reduce electronic equipment life
and void the warranty. To protect electronic equipment
prior to any arc welding (including repair welding),
disconnect all electrical connections including ground,
and remove batteries, or completely remove the
electronic equipment from the compressor.
It is good practice to attach the welding ground clamp as
close as possible to the area where the welding will
occur and to use the lowest practical welder output
setting. Welding must not cause a current flow across
any compressor bearing surface, including but not
limited to crankshaft and crosshead bearing surfaces.
1 Element 1
Main Bearing, Thrust Bearing, and
2 White Wire
Packing Case Temperature 3 Red Wire
Sensors 4 Element 2
5 Black Wire
Thermocouples - J (Iron-Constantan) or 6 Green Wire
K (Chromel-Alumel)
An RTD is a sensor that produces electrical
A thermocouple is two dissimilar conductors resistance as an accurate function of
joined together at one end to form a sensor that temperature. Appropriate controls interpret the
produces a thermoelectric voltage as an accurate electrical resistance as temperature. A typical
function of temperature. Appropriate controls measurement technique sends a small constant
interpret the thermocouple voltage as current through the sensor and measures voltage
temperature. across the sensor with a digital voltmeter to
indicate resistance by a computer and wave-
fitting equations.

For main or thrust bearing temperature sensing, Force Feed Lubrication System
Ariel supplies dual element, six-wire, 100 Ohm (at Monitoring
0°C) RTD’s. Dual element RTD’s allow rewiring
instead of sensor replacement if an element fails. Ariel requires the control panel to shut down the
Insulate unused wire ends from each other and unit if a lube distribution block stops cycling
conduit ground. during compressor operation. Set the shutdown
to a maximum of 3 minutes. This is a class B
To simplify wiring, RTD's come with two green
shutdown, defined as a shutdown unarmed until
wires and one black for one element, and two red
a short time (typically 2 minutes) after the
wires and one white for the other. See Figure:
compressor starts. This allows divider blocks
Typical Dual Element RTD Wiring Diagram.
time to cycle the first time before the shutdown
A Zone 1 environment may require the activates.
installation of proper, intrinsically safe or
Ariel requires all force feed lubrication
equivalent protection to fulfill electrical
monitoring devices to be grounded back to the
requirements.
control panel earth ground, and all unused wires
to be individually isolated so they cannot contact
each other or external sources. Improper
grounding and wiring can result in unreliable
monitor operation, phantom shutdowns, and
premature device failure.
Ariel offers several lube system shutdown

devices. See Table: Force Feed Lube System
Monitors - Specifications for specifications on
available types. For detailed information about
each device, visit the vendor literature section of
www.arielcorp.com.
Table: Force Feed Lube System Monitors - Specifications

Specification Proximity Switch DNFT Programmable DNFT
Shutdown Signal NO YES YES
Proximity Signal YES YES YES
Local Data Storage NO NO Count Display
Infrared Port NO NO NO
Remote Mounting NO NO NO
Local Cycle Indicator Separate Indicator YES - LED YES - LCD & LED
De-bounce Included NO YES YES
Power N/A Battery: A-10807 or 24 VDC Battery: A-10807 or 24 VDC

Specification Proximity Switch DNFT Programmable DNFT
Shutdown Time PLC 180 seconds Programmable 20 to 255

seconds
Area Classification CSA, IECEX, ATEX
CSA CSA 186200 (Canada): Ex d m IIC T5

CSA 186200 (US): Ex d m IIC T5, Class I, Zone 1, AEx d mb IIC T5 Gb
IECEX IECEx CSA 12.0020, Ex d mb IIC T5 Gb
ATEX II 2G SIRA 12ATEX1357, Ex d mb IIC T5 Gb
Temperature -40°F to +131°F (-40°C to +55°C)
Max. Switch Voltage 240 VDC
Max. Switch Current 10.4 mA
Max. Switch Power 2.5 VA
Shutdown Switch Proximity Switch

The shutdown switch monitors divider block pin The proximity switch senses divider block piston
position and supplies a shutdown contact. If the position and changes switch state or pulses with
divider block stops cycling for a given time, the every position change. This device must work
switch sends a shutdown signal to the control with a PLC or some other counter/timer device to
system. produce a shutdown. Some devices open the
switch when the pin is in and close when the pin
For no flow shutdown devices, Normally Open
is out. Others produce a 0.5 second pulse when
(NO) refers to the switch state while the divider
the pin moves in and out. With pulses, the control
block cycles or the unit runs. An NO switch means
system must sense switch cycling and stop the
when the unit runs, the shutdown switch is open
unit if a block stops cycling.
or non-failsafe; the control system cannot detect
damaged devices or loose or cut wires at start-up When using a proximity switch, a local cycle
and will never stop the unit. A Normally Closed indicator is required for local monitoring of lube
(NC) switch means when the unit runs, the cycle times.
shutdown switch is closed or failsafe; the control
Ariel recommends a control system set to find the
system will detect a loose or cut wire and
time between triggered cycles when the switch
shutdown the unit.
transitions from off to on. See Suggested Force
Ariel recommends NC (failsafe) switches. Feed Lube System Proximity Switch Shutdown
However, when a NO (non-failsafe) switch is Logic Diagram.
used, Ariel recommends testing shutdown 1. Shutdown Time with No Lubrication -
circuits at least once a month. Distribution block cycle times vary slightly
from cycle to cycle; 12 seconds for one cycle,
then 15, then 14 is normal. The recom-
mended shutdown time is double the design

cycle time + 30 seconds, limited between 30 • Divider Block Cycle Time - Set lube
seconds and 3 minutes. system pumps according to recom-
mended divider block cycle times. A
• Shutdown Time = (2 x design cycle time +
display of divider block cycle time in
30 seconds)
seconds is helpful to adjust lube pumps as
• Find design cycle time on the compressor they wear out, or to set divider block cycle
lube sheets or the compressor tag. times at pump replacement.
2. DE-BOUNCE and Latching Circuits - The • Time Since Last Pulse - It is helpful to
device and control system scan time may display the timer so the operator sees it
necessitate de-bounce hardware and/or soft- actively timing.
ware. Some devices include no built-in de- • Average Cycle Time - Cycle time varies a
bounce circuits and can cause a fast control few seconds from cycle to cycle. It is
system to double or triple the count. Other sometimes helpful to display a cycle time-
times, it may be necessary to latch input to averaged over 5 to 10 cycles.
allow the control system to detect only the • Total Oil Consumed - Displays how much
first transition from low to high. This oil the lube system uses for accurate oil
orders.
becomes significant when displaying the
4. Sample Flow Diagram to Create Shutdown
cycle time for the operator to set pump flow
- Suggested Force Feed Lube System Prox-
rates and when calculating total oil through
imity Switch Shutdown Logic Diagram shows
the divider block.
one method to create a shutdown within the
3. Suggested Operator Displays PLC from a cycling digital input.
Figure: Suggested Force Feed Lube System Proximity Switch Shutdown Logic Diagram
Vibration Protection shutdown levels on site under normal running

conditions. Below are typical vibration levels
(Packager Supplied) established from field experience:
Ariel requires sensors, such as a vibration switch
or transmitter, to protect the equipment in the
event of excessive vibration. Adjust alarm and

Table: Typical Vibration Levels for Ariel Reciprocating Compressors, inch/sec (mm/s)
JGC:D:F:B:V:Z:U,
Package Components JG:A:M:P:N:Q:R:W, KB100 JGJ:H:E:K:T, KBE:K:T
KBC:D:F:B:V:Z:U
Skid <0.10 (<2.5) <0.15 (<3.8) <0.20 (<5.1)
Compressor Frame <0.30 (<7.6) <0.40 (<10) <0.50 (<13)
Compressor Cylinder <0.60 (<15) <0.80 (<20) <1.0 (<25)
Tandem Cylinder <1.0 (<25) <1.0 (<25) <1.0 (<25)
1. Ariel does not provide vibration limits for skid Velocity Transducers
piping, bottles, or scrubbers.
2. Table does not apply to JGI - vertical non- For frames over 500 HP, Ariel recommends
balanced compressors. velocity transducers (or accelerometer
transducers integrated to a velocity measure)
3. These figures apply to balanced opposed from a 10-250 Hz bandwidth, measured in peak
reciprocating compressors. They are or RMS converted to peak levels.
measured in terms of velocity, inches per
second (mm/s), in zero to peak values, band Mount velocity transducers perpendicular to the
filtered from 10 to 250 Hz. The values are crankshaft at the crankshaft centerline elevation.
guidelines only. In general, if vibration levels A single transducer on the drive end is adequate
fall below those in Table: Typical Vibration on 2-throw and 4-throw machines. Six-throw
Levels for Ariel Reciprocating Compressors, frames require one transducer on the drive end
stress levels are well below equipment and one on the auxiliary end. Many Ariel frames
fatigue stress limit. now have machined bosses for easy and solid
connection. Table: Typical Vibration Levels for
4. Analyze levels exceeding Table: Typical Vibra- Ariel Reciprocating Compressors guidelines can
tion Levels for Ariel Reciprocating Compres- be applied to these readings. The packager may
sors values to determine the cause. A spectral set these levels as initial alarms in the shop, but
vibration analysis should be performed by a must reduce them to more conservative
qualified vibration specialist. protection levels after achieving normal
operation.
The following devices are acceptable for use on
Ariel equipment. Load changes from pneumatic clearance pockets
or HE unloader actuation may cause intermittent
Vibration Switch high vibration levels that can cause nuisance
shutdowns. If this is problematic, a 1-second
Ariel requires installation of an inertial or delay to ensure the vibration is not a transient
electronic vibration switch with the sensitive axis condition is acceptable. Other more complicated
in the piston rod direction. A minimum of 2 methods in control logic can prevent these
switches are recommended for six throw nuisance shutdowns as well.
machines. Switches are not required if
transducers are utilized.

Accelerometer Transducers sensors can be mounted on the lifting eye

machined surface. If a different location is
Acceleration measurement on the frame or preferred, drill, tap, and spot face the mounting
crosshead guides is sometimes a preferred hole. It is critical to drill the hole straight so the
method and acceptable as a secondary method sensor sits flat on the machine.
of protection. Typically, acceleration is
measured with a high sample rate over a wide Mounting sensors on the frame in the horizontal
bandwidth to quantify impact levels for direction at centerline elevation is also
protection. The many factors associated with this acceptable as a second level of protection.
measurement (sensor resonance, sample rate, Impact responses from looseness and debris
mounting, structure resonance), prohibit Ariel transmit to the sensor effectively in this location.
from providing predetermined amplitude limits. For frame mounting, use the machined frame
Set shutdown and alarms for these devices to a bosses if possible. One impact sensor per each
practical level above normal after normal pair of throws or in between throws offers
operation is achieved. Given the variability of adequate protection. Drill, tap, and spot face
acceleration responses, shutdown and alarms mounting hole. It is critical to drill the hole
(as a percentage of normal operation) may vary straight so the sensor sits flat on the machine.
with application. These measurements can also Impact sensors must be selected based on the
be sensitive to unloader and pocket activation. intended operating speed of the compressor.
Impact sensors require field tuning with a
Impact Sensors calibration tool. Consult manufacturer
instructions for adjustment. Typical settings:
Use of crosshead guide impact sensors or time the reset level to capture approximately 16
accelerometers is optional. Impact sensors revolutions at normal operating speed. Set the
monitor and count peak G levels over a set threshold to 1.25 to 3 times the normal baseline
threshold for a certain number of revolutions, level depending on how unit load changes affect
and report the count to the panel, usually in a 4- sensor response.
20mA current loop. They are typically mounted in
the vertical direction on the crosshead guide or in
the horizontal direction on the frame and are
acceptable as a second level of protection.
On high speed separable compressors,

crosshead guides have a fairly high impact
response in the vertical direction due to normal
rod reversals. Sometimes a normal machine
response can saturate impact sensor electronics
and cause nuisance alarms and shutdowns.
Mount impact sensors on a machined surface. If a
mounting location is not already available, these

Package Assembly and Run Testing

Several considerations need attention during nently mark compressor exterior surfaces,
assembly and run testing by the packager: connected piping, and equipment which
1. When it is necessary to remove compressor operates at temperatures above 158°F (70°C)
covers, ensure dirt does not enter the or below 14°F (-10°C) with international hot or
machinery, and re-install covers as soon as cold surface symbols (see Hot/Cold Symbols
possible. ). Otherwise, provide safety guards.
2. Do not sandblast the compressor without NOTE: Due to the hazardous nature of gas
Ariel approval. compression, Ariel requires a caution sticker
(supplied by Ariel) affixed in plain sight on each
3. Ensure all data and caution plates attached compressor control panel. See Control Panel
to the compressor or provided by Ariel are in Caution Sticker.
place and heeded. Comply with standard
safety practices. Conspicuously and perma-
Hot/Cold Symbols Control Panel Caution Sticker
4. Perform activities such as the following under 5. During shop testing, adhere to applicable
direction of competent mechanics trained on items on the Ariel Start Up Check List. Gener-
Ariel compressors: ally, the compressor valves are engineered
for field conditions which can be different
• Cylinder installation
from shop conditions; prolonged running
• Data plate changes
may damage valves.
• Piston and piston rod installation
• Piston end clearance setting 6. Lifting eyebolts are not designed for high side
• Valve clearance assembly loads; spreader bars may be necessary to
• Valve re-springing installation prevent bending the eyebolts.
7. Design and assemble the system to provide

easy maintenance access for crankshaft,
crosshead, valve, and piston removal.

Packager Standards Manual – Package Assembly and Run Testing 06/26/2023
8. When mounting or changing cylinders: Cylinder Removal and

Table: Max. Reciprocating Weight Differential Installation
for Opposing Throws
The following procedures describe how to safely
Model Differential lb (kg) remove and install a compressor cylinder in
JG:A:M:P:N:Q:J:R:S:W, 1.0 (0.45) accordance with Ariel specifications.
ACF, KB100
JGH:E:K:T:C:D:F, 2.5 (1.1)

KBE:K:T:C:D:F
JGB:V:Z:U, KBB:V:Z:U 5.0 (2.3)
a. Coordinate cylinder location and balance

information with Ariel. Install proper
balance parts. See Table: Max. Recipro-
cating Weight Differential for Opposing
Throws.
b. Obtain force feed lubrication data from
Ariel. Install correct distribution blocks
and verify all injection points. Ensure no
debris enters the system.
c. Install a new force feed lubricator data
plate.
d. Consult Ariel to obtain the correct
balance sheet, lubrication sheet, cylinder
parts list, and rod load charts. This docu-
mentation is required for Ariel, the Pack-
ager, and the end user for compressor
operation and maintenance, ordering
parts, and configuring any future re-appli-
cation.
e. See Section 5 to determine if torsional
analysis is required.
9. After assembly and shop run test, prepare
equipment for shipment. This includes water-
tight covers on all openings. See Appendix D
and/or Appendix E.

Cylinder Removal 2. Remove the piston rod assembly. See the

“Piston and Rod Removal” section of the
WARNING applicable Maintenance and Repair Manual.
To reduce risk of injury or death, only trained personnel 3. Disconnect all tubes and instrumentation
who have read and thoroughly understand the from the packing case.
appropriate Ariel Technical Manual and Packager
4. Remove the suction bottle.
information should attempt any maintenance.
Prior to performing any maintenance activities: 5. Loosen fasteners on the cylinder discharge
• Always wear appropriate personal protection equip- flange and adjacent cylinders on the same
ment and follow your company safety and opera- bottle.
tional procedures.
• Never tighten or loosen any fastener or fitting while a. Lower discharge bottle using bottle jacks
the unit is operating or pressurized. and/or appropriate lifting device.
• Verify neither driver nor compressor can turn during b. Do not allow bottle weight to pull down
maintenance.
on discharge flange fasteners during
• Follow packager instructions to completely isolate
and vent the system; call the packager for assis- removal, or cylinder damage may occur.
tance. NOTE: Replace any gasket where fasteners have been
• Verify each compressor cylinder is relieved to atmo- loosened.
spheric pressure. To relieve residual cylinder bore
pressure after blowdown, open the “Kiene” valves 6. Remove cylinder discharge flange fasteners.
on the indicator ports, if so equipped. 7. Confirm cylinder weight and use appropriate
WARNING: RELEASED GAS MAY BE POISONOUS devices to support the cylinder. Maintain the
AND/OR FLAMMABLE.
Before resuming operation, purge the entire system with
cylinder mounting flange parallel with the
the gas being compressed to avoid a potentially crosshead guide mounting flange to prevent
explosive gas/air mixture in the system. A gas/air thread or fastener damage during removal.
mixture under pressure can explode and cause severe
injury or death.
Cylinder Installation
Figure: Typical Cylinder Assembly 1. Confirm cylinder weight and use appropriate
devices to lift the cylinder. Keep cylinder
mounting flange parallel with crosshead
guide mounting flange to prevent thread or
fastener damage during installation.
2. Without a cylinder installed, check crosshead
guide shimming and shim appropriately per
“Crosshead Guide Shimming”.
3. Check the Ariel parts list for the correct
fasteners and gaskets for guide-to-cylinder
mounting.
1 Cylinder Suction Flange Fasteners 4. Visually inspect, clean, and measure cylinder
2 Cylinder Discharge Flange Fasteners mounting bolt holes and fasteners before
3 Cylinder Lubrication Lines installation. Insert a magnetic tool into each
cylinder bolt-hole to ensure they contain no
1. Disconnect cylinder lubrication lines at machining chips.
cylinder-to-guide connection.

5. Confirm CE head bolts are torqued per ER-63 12. If used, remove temporary studs and replace
or the Ariel Torque App prior to cylinder them with proper fasteners. Hand-tighten
installation. two fasteners close to the 10 and 2 o’clock
6. Lubricate fasteners per ER-63 or the Ariel positions, leaving them loose enough to
Torque App, then turn a lubricated fastener in allow flange alignment.
and out of each hole to confirm thread 13. Before final torquing, level the top flange face
integrity. of the cylinder to the adjacent cylinder top
7. To aid installation if there are lifting or flange face and/or top cover to ensure they
alignment challenges, temporarily install two are in planar alignment.
fabricated studs close to 10 and 2 o'clock into NOTE: A machinist’s level is the preferred tool to
the cylinder. attain planar alignment.
a. Make studs long enough to thread fully 14. Torque crosshead guide-to-cylinder
into the cylinder and extend into the fasteners per ER-63 or the Ariel Torque App.
guide bolt hole so that tightening a 15. Remove lifting devices.
washer and nut on the stud can help pull
the cylinder to the guide. Ariel recom- 16. Purge and connect cylinder lubrication lines.
mends using these studs to help ensure
cylinder threaded holes are not stripped.
8. Insert cylinder mounting fasteners into guide
bolt holes.
9. Lightly coat the cylinder-to-crosshead guide
mating surface with grease to hold the gasket
in place. Install the gasket on the cylinder.
10. Slowly move the cylinder pilot into the
crosshead guide bore. Use a lifting device to
work the cylinder into the guide or use studs
(see Step 5) to pull the cylinder to the guide.
CAUTION
DO NOT use mounting bolts to pull the cylinder to the

guide. Damage to fasteners or cylinder threaded holes
may occur.
11. Start threading all cylinder mounting

fasteners first to ensure they will move freely
with hand tools.
CAUTION
If fasteners do not thread freely, STOP! Realign or

remove the cylinder from the guide and check the
threads for defects/debris. If threads are damaged,
contact Ariel.

Start-Up, Service, and Parts

1. Provide clean, dry storage for compressor • Procedures to ensure suction valves are
parts and assemblies. Rotate and/or replace installed only in suction pockets and
parts inventory as required for parts suscep- discharge valves only in discharge
pockets.
tible to shelf life deterioration. Protect parts
and compressors as required to prevent • The location and content of caution tags
on the compressor or other components.
corrosion or damage in storage or handling.
7. The start-up mechanic must use the Mainte-
2. A delayed start-up warranty extension is
nance and Repair Manual and Parts Book to
available upon request for compressors to be
verify correct frame and cylinder identifica-
stored more than 12 months from Ariel ship
tion.
date. Protect compressors to ER-25 (see
Appendix D ) if test run at packager facility
and not field started within one month from Compressor Manual Content
test date. Protect and maintain compressors
not in active service to ER-25 (see Appendix Provide information from www.arielcorp.com for
D). each new equipment manual so it contains the
latest information. Ariel posts serial number
3. Use mechanics experienced and trained on (S/N) specific information in the "Members Only"
Ariel compressors for field start-up. area at www.arielcorp.com for about six months
4. Adhere to the Ariel compressor Start Up after a compressor ships. This information is
Check List (see Appendix B). stored in the permanent Ariel unit record files.
Assemble Ariel reciprocating compressor
5. Complete and return to Ariel the warranty manuals, including:
notification form within 30 days of installa-
1. Balance Sheet for frame and cylinders (S/N
tion. The form is supplied with equipment or
specific, members only area).
download at www.arielcorp.com.
2. Lube Sheet for frame and cylinders (S/N
6. Provide information and training to the specific, members only area).
compressor operator, including:
3. Recommended spares (S/N specific,
• Maintenance and Repair Manual and members only area).
Parts Book. The operator must read and
understand the Maintenance and Repair 4. Parts lists and assembly drawings for frame
Manual prior to compressor operation or and cylinders (S/N specific, members only
service. area).
• Operating requirements such as setting
clearance pockets, operating limits, and 5. Warranty Registration Form.
shutdown points. 6. Start-Up Check List.
• Operating procedures for start-up, idle,
blowdown, by-pass, run, and purging if 7. Appropriate vendor literature. See (Appendix
compressing combustible gas. F) for information on vendor literature selec-
• Normal preventative maintenance. tion.

Packager Standards Manual – Start-Up, Service, and Parts 06/26/2023
8. Ariel Maintenance and Repair Manual for

appropriate compressor model.
9. Standard abbreviations list.

Hold-down Bolting to Resist Shaking Forces and Couples

in Reciprocating Compressors
Requirements
Figure: Hold-down Fasteners
1 Crosshead Guide-to-Support
Fastener(see Table: Crosshead Guide-to-
Support Fastener Torques)
2 Crosshead Guide Support Foot and
Frame Foot Hold Down Fastener (see
Table: Crosshead Guide Support Foot &
Frame Foot Hold-down Fasteners)
1. The torque values provided will achieve the 2. The torque values in Table: Crosshead Guide-
minimum clamp load necessary for opera- to-Support Fastener Torques achieve 50,000
tion. psi (345 MPa) prestress in the fasteners. Use
grade 8 or 9 bolting to hold crosshead guides
to supports.
Table: Crosshead Guide-to-Support Fastener Torquesa

Compressor Model Size inch - TPI Torque lb-ft (N•m)
JG:A:W:M:P:N:Q, KB100 b 5/8 - 11 90 (120)
JGI N/A
JGR:J 3/4 - 10 160 (215)
JGH:E, KBE 7/8 - 9 255 (345)
JGK:Tc 1" - 8 380 (515)

Packager Standards Manual – Hold-down Bolting to Resist Shaking Forces and Couples in Reciprocating 06/26/2023
Compressors
Compressor Model Size inch - TPI Torque lb-ft (N•m)
KBK:T 1" - 14 395 (535)
JGC:D:F:Z:U 1-1/4 - 7 770 (1040)
KBC:D:F 1-1/8 - 12 560 (760)
KBZ:U 1-1/4 - 12 780 (1060)
JGB:V, KBB:V 1-1/2 - 6 1340 (1810)
a Guide supports purchased from Ariel ship with guide-to-support fasteners.

b Crosshead guide supports do not apply to JGM:P:N:Q and KB100 frames. Use this torque for guide-hold-down
fasteners.
c For JGT compressors with ET crosshead guides, use 7/8”–9 TPI size in Table: Crosshead Guide Support Foot & Frame
Foot Hold-down Fasteners as the minimum torque.
3. To use the torques in Table: Crosshead Guide material for metric sizes to meet the
Support Foot & Frame Foot Hold-down minimum clamp load necessary for opera-
Fasteners, the ultimate strength (Su) of the tion. Higher strength materials require higher
stud material must equal or exceed 100,000 torques than shown in the tables for added
psi (690 MPa); higher strength stud material is fastener stretch and preload. Material
preferred. In all cases, torque the nuts to strength and torque are directly propor-
stress the stud to about 55% of the ultimate tional. Example: for 120,000 psi (830 MPa)
strength of the stud material. Torques shown ultimate strength Imperial bolting: 120,000 ÷
in Table: Crosshead Guide Support Foot & 100,000 = 1.2 x min. torque for Imperial size
Frame Foot Hold-down Fasteners are based from table = required torque for given nut
on 100,000 psi ultimate strength material for size. To use a different stud diameter, consult
imperial sizes and 830 MPa ultimate strength Ariel for feasibility and torque.
Table: Crosshead Guide Support Foot & Frame Foot Hold-down Fasteners - Min. Torquesa
Foot Hold- Imperial (basis 100,000 psi) Metric (Class 8.8)c

down Hole
Compressor Min. Nut Recom. Stud Min. Nut
Fastener Diameter
Model Recom. Stud
inch (mm)
Size inch--TPI Torquee lb-ft Sized mm x Torqued lb-ft
Applicationb
(N•m) pitch (N•m)
JGM:P:N:Q, Framef 3/4 (19) 5/8 - 11 100 (140) M16x2 125 (170)
KB100
JG:A Guide 3/4 (19) 5/8 - 11 100 (140) M16x2 125 (170)
Support
JG:A:I Framef 7/8 (22) 3/4 - 10 175 (235) M18x2.5 175 (235)
M20x2.5 250 (340)
JGR:J:W Guide 1 (25) 7/8 - 9 280 (380) M22x2.5 340 (460)

Support and
Frame M20x2.5 250 (340)

Compressors
Foot Hold- Imperial (basis 100,000 psi) Metric (Class 8.8)c

down Hole
Compressor Min. Nut Recom. Stud Min. Nut
Fastener Diameter
Model Recom. Stud
inch (mm)
Size inch--TPI Torquee lb-ft Sized mm x Torqued lb-ft
Applicationb
(N•m) pitch (N•m)
JGH:E:K:T Guide 1-1/4 (32) 1-1/8 - 7 600 (810) M27x3 630 (850)
Support and
Frame M30x3.5 850 (1150)
KBE Guide 1-1/4 (32) 1-1/8 - 7 600 (810) M27x3 630 (850)
Support
M30x3.5 850 (1150)
KBE Frame 1-3/8 (35) 1-1/4 - 7 850 (1150) M30x3.5 850 (1150)
M33x3.5 1170 (1590)
KBK:T Guide 1-3/8 (35) 1-1/4 - 7 850 (1150) M30x3.5 850 (1150)
Support and
Frame M33x3.5 1170 (1590)
JGC:D:F, Guide 1-1/2 (38) 1-3/8 - 6 1100 (1500) M33x3.5 1170 (1590)
KBC:D:F Support and
Frame M36x4 1500 (2030)
JGZ:U Guide 1-1/2 (38) 1-3/8 - 6 1100 (1500) M33x3.5 1170 (1590)
Support
M36x4 1500 (2030)
JGZ:U Frame 1-7/8 (48) 1-3/4 - 5 2300 (3100) M42x4.5 2400 (3250)
JGB:V, Guide 1-7/8 (48) 1-3/4 - 5 2300 (3100) M42x4.5 2400 (3250)
KBZ:U:B:V Support and
Frame
a See #1, "Requirements".

b Crosshead guide support feet and frame feet with counterbored holes are designed to accept 12-point fasteners. To
use hex head fasteners or studs and nuts instead, a washer thick enough to clear the counterbore is required to
provide adequate clearance for the fastener and any tooling used for installation. A washer is also recommended
for feet with holes that are milled flat.
c Ultimate Strength: 830 MPa (120,000 psi); Yield Strength: 660 MPa (95,700 psi).
d Where two sizes appear, the first is the preferred size, and the second is an alternate size.
e For a stud pitch other than those listed above in the same nominal diameter size, use this formula to determine
required torque: Torque = ( fastener torque) x (target fastener root area ÷ fastener root area).
f Crosshead guide supports do not apply to JGM:P:N:Q:I and KB100 frames.
4. Compressor frame foot hold-down studs and NOTE: Fasteners long enough to reach only
crosshead guide support foot hold-down through the compressor foot and a deck plate or
studs listed in Table: Crosshead Guide flange of an I-beam can loosen if not provided
with engineered devices to maintain fastener pre-
Support Foot & Frame Foot Hold-down
load.
Fasteners should be as long as possible. Ariel
recommends a minimum 12 to 1 length to
diameter ratio.

Compressors
5. Tighten nuts as recommended in step 3 to

maintain fastener pre-load during operation.
Ariel also recommends rolled threads and
hardened spherical washers for hold down
fasteners to help compensate for fastener-to-
frame surface angular misalignment.
6. Re-preserve any fasteners subject to corro-

sion after installation.
7. Follow lubrication guidelines and recom-

mended procedures for torque accuracy in
the appropriate Maintenance & Repair
Manual..

Warranty Notification - Installation List Data and Start Up

Check Lists for Reciprocating Compressors
Download the Installation List Data and Start Up Check Lists forms, which is designed to ensure a
successful start-up of Ariel reciprocating compressors. Ariel warranty coverage requires these
completed forms be sent to:
Administrative Assistant - Sales, Ariel Corporation

35 Blackjack Road Phone: 740-397-0311 FAX: 740-397-3856
Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 USA Email: warrantyregistration@arielcorp.com

Ariel Warranty Administration Procedures

This document is accessible only to Ariel distributors. To access the document, click here.

Preserving Ariel Reciprocating Compressors for Storage

This information applies to Ariel reciprocating 3. Protective coating: Cortec VpCI
compressors stored for 12 months since last 368 (alternative: marine grade grease).
preservation. These procedures should prevent
4. Waterproof back, UV resistant tape: Shurtape
corrosion inside an Ariel reciprocating
PC667.
compressor for 12 months if protection is not
compromised. If any deterioration occurs or the 5. Shipping covers and gaskets to seal cylinder
crankshaft is turned, re-preserve. suction and discharge openings, and stan-
dard guide doors to replace any doors
NOTE: This information does not apply to non-lube equipped with over-pressure relief valves.
compressor cylinders and distance pieces. Use
Appendix E to inspect and preserve non-lube cylin- 6. Wax impregnated cloth: Versil-Pak 3-2 JAN-B-
ders and distance pieces. 121, Type II, Grade C, Class 2. Available from
Daubert Cromwell LLC (Alsip, Illinois).
For new compressors to be stored longer than 12
7. Priming pump if compressor does not have
months from the Ariel shipment date, see
one.
Appendix C, and apply for Deferred Start-up
Status to defer the Standard Warranty. 8. Tarps and tie down materials if storing
compressor outdoors.
Preservation Materials and

Equipment Preservation Procedure
1. Inspect and preserve the compressor in a
NOTE: Mobilarma and Cortec products must be clean, dry environment. Remove the
stirred prior to dispensing from their bulk containers. following:
After transferring to a smaller container, stir or agitate
a. Top cover.
the container prior to each use. Keep fluids in sealed
containers when not in use. b. Crosshead guide covers, including any
doors equipped with over-pressure relief
valves.
Use the following or their equivalents:
c. Tape and wax impregnated cloth from
1. A contact rust preventative: Mobil Oil Mobi- drive stub.
larma 247 or Cortec VpCI 322.
d. Suction and discharge cylinder nozzle
2. A liquid vapor phase corrosion inhibitor shipping covers.
(VpCI): Cortec VpCI 329 or VpCI 322. These e. One crank end suction valve from each
products are incompatible with polyglycol cylinder.
(PAG) synthetic oils. For PAG applications, f. One head end suction valve from each
consult Ariel. VpCI 329 and VpCI 322 are cylinder.
equivalent in strength and compatible with g. For packaged compressors, remove one
each other. discharge valve cap from each cylinder.

Packager Standards Manual – Preserving Ariel Reciprocating Compressors for Storage 06/26/2023
2. Inspect all compressor internal surfaces and and discharge gas passages, valves,
cavities. crosshead guides, and distance pieces.
a. Inspect for corrosion or standing water. If b. Rotate crankshaft 180° and repeat Step a.
found, photograph affected areas and Allow no noticeable accumulation of rust
contact Ariel. preventative in the bottom of treated
b. Remove water contamination and corro- cavities.
sion prior to coating parts with rust c. On models with O-ring seal top cover or
preventative. side covers, lightly coat the top rail and
c. Inspect for potential leak paths for water side openings of the frame or guide
and air and seal them. with Cortec VpCI 368 or marine grade
grease before installing top or side
d. Verify metal and plastic plugs are tight
covers.
and replace damaged plugs.
e. Inspect exposed stainless steel tubing 5. Add VpCI corrosion inhibitor to the frame per
and verify metal tubing caps are tight. Table: Minimum Quantity of Cortec VpCl 329
or 322 Corrosion Inhibitor for Frames - Fluid
f. Inspect suction and discharge nozzle Oz. (ml). Pour, spray, or fog the VpCI into the
shipping covers and gaskets for damage. frame. If pouring, distribute evenly
3. Prime lube oil system with a fresh 50/50 throughout the cavity. Do not pour VpCI
mixture of compressor frame oil and rust directly on any bearing surfaces.
preventative such as Mobilarma 247 or Cortec
VpCI 322, if compatible with frame oil.
a. Pump rust preventative/oil mixture
through the lube oil system. Introduce
mixture upstream of the oil filter. Verify oil
visibly flows from all bearing positions
and crossheads.
b. Drain excess rust preventative/oil mixture
from frame and guides. Lube oil piping
should remain filled with the rust preven-
tative/oil mixture during the storage
period.
4. To prevent damage, perform Step 4 within
8 hours of Step 3. Thoroughly agitate rust
preventative and VpCI before each use. Use
VpCI within 24 months of manufacture date.
Spray all internal compressor surfaces with a
rust preventative such as Mobilarma 247 or
Cortec VpCI 322, if compatible with frame oil.
Consult Ariel if rust preventative is
incompatible with frame oil.
a. Spray rust preventative inside frame,
guide, and each compressor cylinder.
Cover all internal surfaces including:
unloaders, piston rod, valve pocket
surfaces, retainers, valve caps, suction

Table: Minimum Quantity of Cortec VpCl 329 or 322 Corrosion Inhibitor for Frames - Fluid Oz.
(ml)
Frame Min. Quantity
JGM:P:N:Q:I, KB100, JG:JGA/2, JGR:J/2 3 (89)
JG:JGA/4, JGH:E:K:T/2, KBE:K:T/2 6 (177)
JGA/6, JGR:J/4, JGC:D:F/2, KBC:D:F/2 10 (296)
JGJ/6, JGH:E:K:T/4, JGC:D:F/4, JGZ:U/2, 16 (473)

KBE:K:T:C:D:F/4, KBZ:U/2
JGH:E:K:T/6, JGC:D:F/6, JGZ:U/4, KBK:T:C:D:F/6, KBZ:U/4 22 (651)
JGB:V/4, JGZ:U/6, KBZ:U/6, KBB:V/4 36 (1065)
JGB:V/6, KBB:V/6 50 (1479)
6. Add VpCI corrosion inhibitor to guide and

distance piece cavities per Table: Minimum
Quantity of Cortec VpCl 329 or 322 Corrosion
Inhibitor for Compressor Guide
Compartments - Fluid Oz. (ml). Pour, spray,
or fog the VpCI into the cavity. If pouring,
distribute evenly throughout the cavity. Do
not pour VpCI directly on any bearing
surfaces.
Figure: Compressor Guide Compartments
Long Two Compartment Guide Short Two Compartment Guide Standard Guide
#4 #1 #2 #4 #2 #3 #4 #2

Table: Minimum Quantity of Cortec VpCl 329 or 322 Corrosion Inhibitor for Compressor Guide
Compartments - Fluid Oz. (ml)
L2, STD, and S2 Crosshead Cavity
L2 Guide S2 Guide
Compressor Frame Guide
Compartment #1
Compartment #2
Compartment #3 #4a
JG:A:R:J 1/2 (15) 1/2 (15) 1/2 (15) N/A
JGH:E:K:T, KBE:K:T 1/2 (15) 1 (30) 1/2 (15) 2 (59)
JGC:D:F, KBC:D:F 1 (30) 2 (59) 1/2 (15) 4 (118)
JGZ:U, KBZ:U 2 (59) 2 (59) 1 (30) 4 (118)
JGB:V, KBB:V 3 (89) 3 (89) 1-1/2 (44) 6 (177)
a Compartment #4 is used when guides ship unmounted 7. Add VpCI corrosion inhibitor to the cylinder
with a shipping cover. per Table: Minimum Quantity of Cortec VpCI
329 or 322 Corrosion Inhibitor for Cylinders.
Pour, spray, or fog the VpCI into the cylinder.
If pouring, distribute evenly throughout the
cavity. Distribute 75% of the VpCI evenly
between the cylinder suction and discharge
gas passages, and 25% evenly between the
crank end and head end of the cylinder bore.
Table: Minimum Quantity of Cortec VpCI 329 or 322 Corrosion Inhibitor for Cylinders
Cylinder by
Frame Cylinder Bore Diameter - inches (mm)
Class
JG:A:M:P:N: < 10 (250) 10 to 15 > 15 (380) - - - -

Q:R:J, (250 to 380)
KB100
JGH:E:K:T, < 5 (130) - - 5 to 15 (130 > 15 (380) - -

KBE:K:T to 380)
JGC:D:F:Z:U < 5 (130) - 5 to 10 (130 - - > 10 (250) -

, to 250)
KBC:D:F:Z:U
JGB:V, - - - 5 to 10 (130 - 10 to 15 > 15 (380)

KBB:V to 250) (250 to 380)
Quantity 1 (30) 2 (59) 3 (89) 4 (118) 6 (177) 7 (207) 9 (266)

oz. (ml)
8. If your compressor is not shown in the tables • 1/2 ounce to the cylinder lube box sump
above, contact Ariel for correct VpCl via the fill plug.
quantities. • 1 ounce to lube oil filter housings drained
9. Add quantity of Cortec VpCI 329 or 322 to the prior to shipment (not applicable to spin-
following cavities: on filters).

• 1/2 ounce to lube oil pump discharge Storage

port.
10. VpCI corrosion inhibitors require protected Prior to packaging, store the compressor in a
cavities to remain sealed during storage. clean, dry environment. If stored outdoors,
Open cavities deplete VpCI concentration, protect it from direct contact with the elements.
rendering it ineffective. To prevent VpCI Never store a compressor with the mounting feet
depletion, seal the compressor as follows: in direct contact with the ground; protect them
a. Plug all openings including vents and from corrosion.
breather connections. Verify plugs are
tight. If the compressor is stored after packaging,
b. Reassemble all covers and the valve protect all piping and bottles in the package in
assemblies and re-connect the pre-lube addition to the compressor. Verify all openings in
pump. Do not install guide doors the package are sealed.
equipped with relief valves; replace with
standard doors.
c. Seal cylinder suction and discharge Commissioning Compressor to
nozzles with shipping covers and gaskets. Service
d. Verify proper installation of cylinder ship-
ping covers and gaskets. At commissioning:
e. Replace damaged shipping flange covers 1. Inspect all compressor internal surfaces and
or gaskets. cavities. Inspect for corrosion or standing
f. Hand-wrench tighten the shipping flange water. If found, photograph affected areas
cover bolts in a criss-cross pattern. and contact Ariel.
11. Coat drive stub with rust preventative, wrap 2. Change the oil filter. There is no need to
with wax impregnated cloth such as Versil- change oil, or if drained, to flush frame prior
Pak 3-2, followed by waterproof backed tape to filling with oil; rust preventative will mix
such as Shurtape PC667. with the lube oil. For PAG synthetic oil
applications, consult Ariel.
12. Tape the clearance opening between the
drive end dust seal cover and crankshaft to 3. Remove temporary covers, gaskets, plugs,
prevent any exchange of air to the frame. tape, tags etc. that seal the compressor.
Replace all connections including vents and
13. Ensure force feed pump stroke adjustment drains. Install guide doors equipped with
lock nuts are wrench tight and the priming relief valves, if applicable.
stem is covered with wax impregnated cloth.
4. Complete the Start-Up Check list (Appendix
14. Ensure all vents, drains, and process piping B).
are capped, plugged, or sealed to prevent air
from entering compressor.
15. Tag the compressor and guide/cylinder
assemblies with a tag stating that the
crankshaft should not be turned and the date
of the last compressor inspection and
preservation. If the crankshaft is turned for
any reason, re-preserve per Appendix D .

Protection of Non-Lube Compressor Cylinders and

Distance Pieces with VCI Powder for Shipment
This procedure covers corrosion protection of Cylinders and distance piece cavities are treated
non-lube compressor cylinders and distance at the factory for 6 months protection.
piece cavities with Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor Equipment not commissioned in service within 6
(VCI) powder for shipment. Vapor corrosion months requires inspection and re-application of
inhibitors are chemical compounds which react VCI. It is not necessary to remove VCI powder
with oxygen to produce a vapor with anti- before commissioning equipment.
corrosion properties. The vapor saturates an air
space with negatively charged molecules which
migrate to positively charged surfaces to form a Application
protective mono-molecular film. This film 1. Verify all interior cylinder surfaces are clean,
creates a barrier to prevent oxygen and moisture oil free, and dry.
from contacting metal surfaces. Parts removed 2. Apply 7 grams (1/4 ounce) of VCI powder per
from the vapors have no corrosion protection. cubic foot of cavity volume (245g/m3) for 6
months protection. Table: Practical Quanti-
ties of VCI Powder lists quantities of VCI
powder for Ariel cylinders and distance
pieces. These quantities ensure adequate
protection, regardless of cylinder or cross-
head guide size.
Table: Practical Quantities of VCI Powder

Cylinders by Frame Class Ounces Tablespoons (Tbsp) Grams
JG, JGA, M, P, J, W, SG, KB100 1/4 1 7
R, H, E, K, T, C, D, F, Z, U 1/2 2 15
B, V 1 4 30
Distance Piece Cavities (Long Two- Inner Cavity (Adjacent to Crosshead) Outer Cavity (Adjacent to Cylinder)
Compartment)
Ounces Tbsp Grams Ounces Tbsp Grams
JG, JGA, JGW, JGR, JGJ 1/8 1/2 4 1/4 1 7
JGH, JGE, JGK, JGT, KBK, KBT 1/4 1 7 1/2 2 15
JGC, JGD, JGF, KBC, KBD, KBF 1/2 2 15 1 4 30
JGZ, JGU, KBZ, KBU 1 4 30 1 4 30
JGB, JGV, KBB, KBV 1-1/2 6 45 1-1/2 6 45

Packager Standards Manual – Protection of Non-Lube Compressor Cylinders and Distance Pieces with VCI 06/26/2023
Powder for Shipment
3. Place VCI powder in an entrance (such as sealed container in a dry place with temperature
valve pockets and/or head end) and blow it not exceeding 150°F (65°C). Avoid direct
into the cavity with filtered, moisture-free, exposure to sunlight. Shelf life is up to 24 months.
compressed air until all powder is finely and See manufacturer Health and Safety Data Sheet
thoroughly dispersed or use a powder for VmCI™-307 for complete information.
bellows. Treat distance piece cavities, both
ends of cylinder, gas passages, valve areas,
and unloaders.
4. After VCI application, immediately seal all

openings to prevent any air exchange into the
cylinder or distance piece. Use Ariel supplied
shipping covers, gaskets, and bolts to close
openings. When a compressor cylinder ships
separately, seal compressor rod/packing
case area with waterproof cloth tape.
5. For each compressor cylinder treated with

VCI, mark quantity of VCI used and date
applied in permanent black ink on a tempo-
rary tag (Ariel part number A-5831). Attach
tag to the cylinder.
Material and Source

VCI - Cortec Corrosion Inhibitor Powder VmCI™-
307 (or equivalent).
Cortec Corporation
St. Paul Minnesota
800-426-7832
Ariel recommends 5-pound (2.3 kg) containers

due to shelf life.
Safety Precautions
Wear breathing apparatus conforming to
international standards when applying VCI
powder. Wear appropriate protective clothing
and eye protection. Barrier creams may assist in
protecting exposed skin. Store powder in a

Literature Selection for Reciprocating Compressor

Customer Manuals
Table: Component Parts Information for All Print all applicable component parts information
Models of Reciprocating Compressors in Table: Component Parts Information for All
Compressor Rod Rings and Packing Cases Models of Reciprocating Compressors and Table:
Component Parts Information by Model and
Compressor Valve Service Guide
include it in the customer manuals unless the
Practical Leakage Testing of Compressor Valves Notes specify an exception.
Force Feed Lubricator Pump - Ariel ER-105.8
As needed, print additional required literature as
Tube Fitting instructions specified in the Notes and include it in the
customer manuals.
Always print Ariel technical manuals, component
parts information, Ariel customer technical
bulletins, Ariel Packager Standards, etc. from the
Ariel website for the most recent versions. Visit
www.arielcorp.com and click Support.
Table: Component Parts Information by Model

Model Component Part Information
JG, JGA Lube Oil Pump Series LA - LE or Lube Oil Pump Series 4195 & 495 GG - AL, Viking
Technical Service Manual (if applicable)
JGM:P:N:Q, KB100 Lube Oil Pump Series LA - LE
JGJ:R Lube Oil Pump Series 4195 & 495 GG - AL, Viking Technical Service Manual
JGH:E:K:T Lube Oil Pump Series 4195 & 495 GG - AL (2/4-throw), GHC Rotary Gear Pumps
(4/6-throw), Viking Technical Service Manual (2/4-throw, if applicable)
KBE:K:T Lube Oil Pump Series 4195 & 495 GG - AL (2-throw), Viking Technical Service
Manual (2-throw), GHC Rotary Gear Pumps (4/6-throw)
JGC:D:F Lube Oil Pump Series 4195 & 495 GG - AL (2-throw), Viking Technical Service
Manual (2-throw), GHC Rotary Gear Pumps (4/6-throw)
KBC:D:F GHC Rotary Gear Pumps
KBZ:U Lube Oil Pump Models K4024 & KK4024, Viking Technical Service Manual, Lube
Oil Pressure Regulating Valves - FV-Series
KBB:V GHC Rotary Gear Pumps
Notes clearance pocket, include Application of

Pneumatically Actuated Fixed Volume Clear-
For units equipped with: ance Pocket.
1. Any pneumatically actuated fixed volume

Packager Standards Manual – Literature Selection for Reciprocating Compressor Customer Manuals 06/26/2023
2. A thermostatic valve, include applicable ther-

mostatic valve literature.
3. An oscillating pre-lube hand pump, include

Oscillating Pre-lube Hand Pump.
4. A Whitlock DNFT or proximity switch, or a

Trabon lube sentry valve, include applicable
literature.
5. An oil strainer and/or filter, include Lube Oil

Strainers & Filters.
6. A Nupro force feed lube balance valve,

include Nupro R3A Pressure Relief Valve -
Force Feed Lube Balance.
7. A crankcase relief valve, include applicable

“BICERA” literature.
8. A Riverhawk hydraulic stud tensioner,

include applicable Special Tools literature.
9. An oil cooler, include Water Cooled Industrial

Oil Cooler for applicable series.
10. A GHC lube oil pump, include GHC Rotary Gear

Pumps in lieu of lube oil pump literature
listed in "Component Parts Information by
Model".
Also:
11. For units painted Ariel blue, include Ariel Blue
Paint MSDS.
12. Include additional applicable Compressor

Valve literature.
13. Separate Cylinders orders receive appli-

cable Compressor Rings & Packings,
Compressor Valves, and Pneumatic Fixed
Volume Clearance Pocket literature along
with Tube Fitting Instructions.
14. Separate Fixed Volume Clearance Pocket

orders receive Application of Pneumatically
Actuated Fixed Volume Clearance Pocket.

Soft Foot and Top Plane Flatness Checks for Proper Main
Bearing Bore Alignment in Reciprocating Compressors
Main bearing bore alignment is critical to main Soft Foot Check
bearing and crankshaft life. Ariel manufactures
the top cover mounting surface of a compressor (All frames except KBK:E:T:C:D:F 4 and 6 throw
frame in close tolerance to a flat plane, to the frames)
main bearing bores, and to the bottom of the 1. Properly install and torque compressor frame
compressor feet. The main bearing bores align hold down bolting. See Appendix G for proper
when frame feet are supported so the top cover frame foot and crosshead guide bolt size and
mounting surface is flat within a plane created by torques.
two measurement points on one top rail and one 2. Loosen each hold down bolt individually
measurement point on the opposite top rail. while checking the frame foot to skid deflec-
After establishing the plane, adjust frame feet to tion with a calibrated dial indicator. If there
within acceptable limits. Frame flatness ensures are two bolts on a foot, loosen both for this
the main bore is straight and not distorted. Level check.
the compressor before flatness adjustment. For
leveling limits, see Appendix H. 3. Correct any hold down position that deflects
more than 0.002 inches (0.05 mm) when
A best practice is to install and use reference released. Re-torque the hold down bolt or
pads to measure level and flatness during skid bolts and repeat on each frame foot.
fabrication. Verify skid level and flatness is
satisfactory on site using the pads. When
documented properly and duplicated, this Soft Foot Check
practice reduces labor to re-establish major
(KBK:E:T:C:D:F 4 and 6 throw frames)
component alignment.
1. Properly install and torque compressor frame
Soft foot checks and top plane flatness hold down bolting. See Appendix G for proper
measurements are required: frame foot and crosshead guide bolt size and
• On new installations or if a unit is relocated. torques.
Perform measurements both prior to skid 2. Loosen each corner hold down bolt individu-
grouting and at final shaft alignment prior to
ally while checking the frame foot to skid
initial startup.
deflection with a calibrated dial indicator.
• At 6 months or 4000 hours to ensure skid
stability. If no changes are found, the interval 3. Soft foot measurements on the middle hold
can then be extended to 12 months or 8000 down feet (hold down bolts located between
hours.
two guides) require both feet to be loosened
NOTE: If at any time frame hold down fasteners are when taking individual soft foot readings. The
loose, perform soft foot check and top plane flatness close proximity of the two individual feet
measurement. If a crankcase is damaged, top plane results in them acting as one foot. Refer to
flatness must be within tolerance prior to any
machining in the shop or on site.

Packager Standards Manual – Soft Foot and Top Plane Flatness Checks for Proper Main Bearing Bore Alignment 06/26/2023
Figure: Flatness Measurement Locations for 2. Use measurement equipment with a

KBE:K:T:C:D:F Frames to see both feet to published accuracy of ±0.001 inches (0.025
loosen. Soft foot measurements are mm) over the distance required to measure
required on each foot individually. the entire length of both frame rails. Measure
the top surface of both sides of the frame rails
4. Record soft foot measurements on each foot
based on the frame type as shown in figures
individually.
below. For proper alignment, readings
5. Correct any hold down position that deflects between any two adjacent points must be
more than 0.002 inches (0.05 mm) when within 0.002 in. (0.05 mm).
released. Retorque the hold down bolt or
3. The ER-82 software tool determines if read-
bolts and repeat on each frame foot.
ings meet ER-82 specifications, and if not,
provides recommendations for shim correc-
Top Plane Flatness Check tions as well. Contact Ariel Technical Service
for the latest version of this tool.
1. Remove or reposition the top cover(s) and
gasket(s) to expose the frame top cover 4. Frame temperature can greatly affect flat-
mounting surface. Verify it is clean. ness readings. Factors such as direct sunlight
NOTE: On frames with O-ring seal top covers, the on a portion of the frame or cooling after unit
frame top rail is lightly coated with Cortec VPCI shut down can cause measurement inaccu-
368 corrosion inhibitor or equivalent to protect racy. Ensure frame temperature is consistent
the aluminum to cast iron joint. If the top cover is
throughout the measurement process. Ariel
removed, clean both the top rail and the top cover
and re-coat the frame top rail with a light coat of recommends flatness measurement while
the same compound. If VPCI 368 or equivalent is the frame is at ambient temperatures to mini-
not available, use marine grade grease. Apply mize the effects of thermal expansion.
only a light coat of the corrosion inhibitor; do not
allow excess material to flow into the frame when NOTE: If the unit will not be restarted immediately,
the top cover is installed. re-preserve the unit in a manner appropriate to the
time duration until restart.
Figure: Flatness Measurement Locations for Frames with Single Anchor Bolts

Packager Standards Manual – Soft Foot and Top Plane Flatness Checks for Proper Main Bearing Bore Alignment 06/26/2023
Figure: Flatness Measurement Locations for Frames with Pairs of Anchor Bolts
Figure: Flatness Measurement Locations for KBE:K:T:C:D:F Frames
1 Loosen both when taking soft foot.

Leveling Limits for Stationary Reciprocating Compressors

The limits in Table: Maximum Angle from a
Horizontal Plane Allowed when Stationary while
Running with Wet Sump assume a running oil
level maintained between one half and two-
thirds the height of the sight glass. Length
leveling limits apply axially (parallel to
crankshaft) and width limits apply horizontally
(parallel to the piston rod) within the length and
width of the frame.
Table: Maximum Angle from a Horizontal Plane Allowed when Stationary while Running with
Wet Sump - In/Ft (mm/m) of Distance [ ° ]
1 or 2 Throw 4 Throw 6 Throw
Frame
Length Width Length Width Length Width
JGM:N 0.420 (35) [2°] 0.500 (42) N/A

[2.4°]
JGP:Q, KB100 0.500 (42) 0.500 (42) N/A

[2.4°] [2.4°]
JG 0.460 (38) 0.500 (42) 0.215 (18) 0.500 (42) N/A

[2.2°] [2.4°] [1.0°] [2.4°]
JGA 0.500 (42) 0.500 (42) 0.310 (26) 0.500 (42) 0.190 (16) 0.500 (42)
[2.4°] [2.4°] [1.5°] [2.4°] [0.9] [2.4°]
JGW:R 0.095 (7.9) 0.500 (42) 0.025 (2.1) 0.500 (42) N/A
[0.45°] [2.4°] [0.1°] [2.4°]
JGJ 0.420 (35) [2°] 0.500 (42) 0.105 (8.7) 0.450 (37) 0.065 (5.4) 0.460 (38)
[2.4°] [0.5°] [2.1°] [0.3°] [2.2°]
JGH 0.375 (31) [2°] 0.500 (42) 0.160 (13) 0.500 (42) N/A
[2.4°] [0.8°] [2.4°]
JGE:T 0.440 (37) 0.500 (42) 0.155 (13) 0.500 (42) 0.090 (7.5) 0.310 (26)
[2.1°] [2.4°] [0.7°] [2.4°] [0.4°] [1.5°]
JGK 0.105 (8.7) 0.500 (42) 0.035 (2.9) 0.500 (42) 0.020 (1.7) 0.310 (26)
[0.5°] [2.4°] [0.2°] [2.4°] [0.1°] [1.5°]
KBE 0.375 (31) 0.480 (40) 0.170 (14) 0.410 (34) N/A
[1.8°] [2.3°] [0.8°] [2.0°]
KBK 0.165 (14) 0.410 (34) 0.065 (5.4) 0.280 (23) 0.040 (3.3) 0.345 (29)
[0.8°] [2.0°] [0.3°] [1.3°] [0.2°] [1.6°]
KBT 0.445 (37) 0.480 (40) 0.170 (14) 0.410 (34) 0.105 (8.7) 0.345 (29)
[2.1°] [2.3°] [0.8°] [2.0°] [0.5°] [1.6°]

Packager Standards Manual – Leveling Limits for Stationary Reciprocating Compressors 06/26/2023
1 or 2 Throw 4 Throw 6 Throw

Frame
Length Width Length Width Length Width
JGC 0.270 (22) 0.460 (38) 0.100 (8.3) 0.460 (38) 0.060 (5.0) 0.180 (15)
[1.3°] [2.2°] [0.5°] [2.2°] [0.3°] [0.9°]
JGD 0.500 (42) 0.460 (38) 0.205 (17) 0.460 (38) 0.125 (10) 0.180 (15)
[2.4°] [2.2°] [1.0°] [2.2°] [0.6°] [0.9°]
JGF 0.500 (42) 0.460 (38) 0.260 (22) 0.460 (38) 0.155 (13) 0.180 (15)
[2.4°] [2.2°] [1.2°] [2.2°] [0.7°] [0.9°]
KBC 0.279 (23) 0.287 (24) 0.115 (10) 0.358 (30) 0.072 (6.0) 0.358 (30)
[1.3°] [1.4°] [0.5°] [1.7°] [0.3°] [1.7°]
KBD 0.500 (42) 0.287 (24) 0.212 (18) 0.358 (30) 0.133 (11) 0.358 (30)
[2.4°] [1.4°] [1.0°] [1.7°] [0.6°] [1.7°]
KBF 0.500 (42) 0.396 (33) 0.309 (26) 0.445 (37) 0.195 (16) 0.445 (37)
[2.4°] [1.9°] [1.5°] [2.1°] [0.9°] [2.1°]
JGZ, KBZ 0.500 (42) 0.500 (42) 0.380 (25) 0.500 (42) 0.240 (20) 0.500 (42)
[2.4°] [2.4°] [1.8°] [2.4°] [1.1°] [2.4°]
JGU, KBU 0.500 (42) 0.500 (42) 0.475 (40) 0.500 (42) 0.300 (25) 0.500 (42)
[2.4°] [2.4°] [2.3°] [2.4°] [1.4°] [2.4°]
JGB N/A 0.250 (21) 0.075 (6.2) 0.180 (15) 0.075 (6.2)
[1.2°] [0.4°] [0.9°] [0.4°]
JGV N/A 0.235 (20) 0.075 (6.2) 0.150 (12) 0.075 (6.2)
[1.1°] [0.4°] [0.7°] [0.4°]
KBB:V N/A 0.165 (14) 0.500 (42) 0.120 (10) 0.500 (42)
[0.8°] [2.4°] [0.6°] [2.4°]
Dry Sump
Compressors subject to transient motion, roll,
and yaw on board a ship or a floating platform
may require a dry sump (“dry” crankcase and
separate oil reservoir). See the table for limits,
which are based on the angle where the
crankshaft/connecting rods will contact the oil
level causing foaming. The limits assume that the
running oil level is maintained between one half
and two-thirds the height of the sight glass when
the frame is level.

Packager Standards Manual – Leveling Limits for Stationary Reciprocating Compressors 06/26/2023
Table: Maximum Angle from a Horizontal Plane Allowed in Transient Motion without Dry Sump
Framea 1 or 2 Throw 4 Throw 6 Throw
JGM:P:N:Q, KB100 4° N/A N/A
JG 4° 2.5° N/A
JGA 6.5° 3.5° 2°
JGW:R 1° Use Dry Sumpb N/A
JGJ 4° 1° Use Dry Sumpb

JGH 3.5° 2° N/A
JGE:T 4° 1.5° 1°
JGK 1° Use Dry Sumpb Use Dry Sumpb
KBE 3.5° 2° N/A
KBK 3° Use Dry Sumpb Use Dry Sumpb
KBT 7.5° 2° 1°
JGC 4° 1° Use Dry Sumpb

JGD 5.5° 2.5° 1°
JGF 5° 3° 1.5°
KBC 4° 1° Use Dry Sumpb

KBD 5° 2.5° 1.5°
KBF 5.5° 3.5° 2°
JGZ:U, KBZ:U 7° 4° 2.5°
JGB:V N/A 2° 1.5°
KBB:V N/A 1.5° 1°
a The JGI frame, vertical non-balanced compressor, is not to be applied offshore.

b Use dry sump as noted if compressor is subject to transient motion.
With a dry sump, drains are supplied at each end in the pump suction line at the outlet of the
of the compressor frame and an additional oil separate lube oil reservoir (unmounted strainer
pump chain oiler is provided by Ariel. The is provided by Ariel with a new dry sump
packager must provide a lube oil reservoir sized compressor). Refer to the Ariel outline drawings
and located so that the oil pump has oil suction for connection sizes and locations.
regardless of the tilt of the ship or floating
platform. An oil sump strainer must be installed

Attachment of Wiring, Tubing, or Pipe Clamps to Ariel

Compressor Cylinders
DO NOT drill holes to mount wiring, tubing, secure unloader tubing or instrumentation lines.
instrumentation, or pipe clamps to any pressure The plug is designed for high pressure and will
containing component. Pressure containing not affect existing Ariel cylinder MAWP in any
components include cylinders, valve caps, application. Also, standard cylinder plugs may be
cylinder heads, unloaders, gas passage caps, and replaced with this plug without a hydrotest.
flanges. DO NOT use pressure containment Packagers may purchase this plug (A-28373)
fasteners to mount brackets or other structural through Ariel Parts Sales.
attachments. These practices can compromise
Newer Ariel cylinder designs include 1/4-20 UNC
the integrity of pressure containing components.
tapped holes to the milled pad that contains the
CAUTION cylinder indicator port holes (see Figure: Typical
Cylinder Plugs and Tapped Holes). These extra
Do not drill holes in any pressure containing
components for any reason. tapped holes will provide additional
accommodation to clamp unloader tubing or
Figure: Typical Cylinder Plugs and Tapped Holes instrumentation lines.
Alternate Attachment Method

An alternate method to attach clamps to
compressor cylinders is to use an epoxy resin.
Ariel recommends Loctite 331 or Loctite 332
applied to clean, unpainted metal. Follow all
manufacturer instructions and
1 Standard Plug recommendations to prepare the area for the
2 Plug A-28373 adhesive. The clamp and unpainted surface can
3 New 1/4-20 UNC Tapped Holes be painted after the adhesive cures. This clamp
Ariel offers a 1/2-inch NPT pipe plug with a 1/4-20 attachment method does not compromise
UNC tapped hole to accommodate a tubing cylinder integrity.
clamp or bracket (see Figure: Typical Cylinder
Plugs and Tapped Holes). Installing this plug in
cylinder indicator ports provides locations to

Latest Manual Revisions
06/26/2023
Topic Change Description
Compressor Pre-lube System 'Instrumentation': 'The compressor requires a Class B low oil pressure
shutdown. Inhibited time must not exceed 10 seconds after idle speed is
achieved on gas engines or start initiation for electric motors.' WAS 'It is highly
recommended that the compressor low oil pressure shutdown be Class B.
Inhibited time shall be no longer than 10 seconds after idle speed is achieved
on gas engines or start initiation for electric motors.' Added 'The pre-lube
pump must remain latched until either main lube oil pressure reaches 75
psi or the compressor reaches minimum speed.'
Cylinder Installation New release.
Cylinder Removal New release.
Cylinder Removal and Installation New release.
Discharge Bottle Support Adjustment 1st ¶: deleted 'using'. #1: Inserted 'for a minimum of 24 hours'. #2: 'Place a
magnetic base indicator on a structurally stiff skid member as close as
possible to the bottle support.' WAS 'Place a magnetic base indicator as close
as possible to the bottle support with the magnetic base on a structurally stiff
skid member.' #3: Added '(0.076 to 0.127 mm) maximum lift'. #4: 'Remove
indicators.' WAS 'Remove the indicators.' #5: Deleted 'At this point,'.
Oil Cooler 1st ¶: 'Ariel recommends mounting oil coolers below compressor frame oil
level and as close to the compressor as possible with piping of adequate size
to minimize pressure drop of both lube oil and cooling medium. If mounted
above frame oil level, check valves may be necessary to prevent oil drainage
back to the frame. Configure oil cooler circuit so air can be manually vented at
high points in the system during commissioning and after maintenance.' WAS
'Mount coolers as close to the compressor as possible.'
Piping Design, Installation, and Inserted new #5: 'A gas recycle line for startup, supplied by either the packager
Package Construction Requirements or end user, is required for each package. Connect recycle line upstream of
scrubber rather than directly into the scrubber. Design recycle line so as not to
disrupt scrubber operation. Consider both capacity control and startup
recycle flows for recycle line sizing.'
Pulsation Bottle Installation Replaced 13-step procedure with updated 10-step procedure.

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Packager Standards Manual 06/26/2023

Skid Design and Fabrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Process Piping Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 1

Compressor Pre-lube System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 2

Vent and Drain Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Package Assembly and Run Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Start-Up, Service, and Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 3

Ariel Warranty Administration Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 4

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 5

Ariel Contact Information

Ariel Response Center 888-397-7766 (toll-free USA & 740-397-1060 arc@arielcorp.com

Order Entry 740-397-3856 -

Ariel World HQ 740-397-0311 740-397-3856 info@arielcorp.com

Technical Services fieldservice@arielcorp.

Ariel Response Center Technicians or

3. Your voice mail routes to an on-call represen-

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 6

Packager Responsibilities e. Define the duty cycle of compressor oper-

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c. Applications such as air compression, required to validate this guarantee. At this

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3. If doubt still remains, conduct a performance

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 9

Skid Design and Fabrication

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 10

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 11

(HES). If a mechanical analysis predicts inter- Head End Support Required

4. Check and record crosshead running clear-

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 12

Process Piping Systems

Scrubber Design and 5. Ariel requires nozzle reinforcement pads or

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 13

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 14

For compressor flanges pre-loaded cold to

See Note 3a in "Piping Design, Installation, and

Figure: Axis Orientation shows force and moment

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 15

Table: Allowable Forces and Moments at Cylinder Flanges

Pulsation Bottles 3. Design pulsation bottles without traps. Traps

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 16

8. If a mechanical/acoustical analysis predicts e. The attachment point to the guide should

9. Avoid suction bottle bracing if possible in the

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 17

7. Set suction bottle. 4. Remove indicators. Use a locking mechanism

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 18

2. The discharge gas temperature predicted by

3. Account for cooler fan power consumption

4. Cooler design and construction must comply

6. Some applications require automated

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 19

Driver Power Rating, Coupling, and Drive System

Driver Power Rating Electric Motors

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 20

Figure: Motor Shaft to Drive Stub Coupling

1 Bearing Journal 3 Typical Motor Shaft 5 Coupling Shoulder Stop

Torsional Analysis • Gearboxes.

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 21

ARIEL CORPORATION | www.arielcorp.com 22

4. See the coupling manufacturer instruction 6. Perform an on-site torsional vibration