Synchronous Motors to Compressors: Properties and Behavior of Reciprocating Types of Driven Mechanical Equipment

In this article, the technical requirements to properly and satisfactorily apply a synchronous motor to a reciprocating compressor as installed in the refining and petrochemical industries are identified and discussed. The issues crucial to understanding the mechanical nature of these compressors and the successful operation of motor-compressor trains are identified, and the appropriate solutions are described in detail. It is the goal of this article to foster a better understanding by electrical engineers of the properties and behavior of reciprocating types of driven mechanical equipment.