API STD 618, December 2007 – Reciprocating Compressors for Petroleum, Chemical, and Gas Industry Services

API 618 covers the minimum requirements for reciprocating compressors and their drivers for use in petroleum, chemical, and gas industry services for handling process air or gas with either lubricated or non-lubricated cylinders.

Compressors covered by this standard are low to moderate speed machines. Also included are related lubrication systems, controls, instrumentation, intercoolers, aftercoolers, pulsation suppression devices, and other auxiliary equipment. Compressors not covered by this standard are (a) integral gas-engine-driven compressors, (b) compressors with single-acting trunk-type (automotive-type) pistons that also serve as crossheads, and (c) either plant or instrument-air compressors that discharge at a gauge pressure of 9 bar (125 psig) or below.

Note 1: Requirements for packaged high-speed reciprocating compressors for oil and gas production services are covered in ISO 13631.

Note 2: A bullet (•) at the beginning of a clause indicates that either a decision is required or further information is to be provided by the purchaser. This information should be indicated on the data sheets (see Annex A); otherwise it should be stated in the quotation request (inquiry) or in the order.