31 Samss 001

Materials System Specification
31-SAMSS-001 23 August 2017

Axial and Centrifugal Compressors and Expander-Compressors
Document Responsibility: Compressors, Gears, & Steam Turbines Stds Committee
Contents
Part 1 – General Requirements ............................... 2
1 Scope ................................................................ 2
2 Normative References ...................................... 3
4 General ............................................................. 5
5 Accessories..................................................... 13
6 Inspection, Testing, and
Preparation for Shipment ......................... 18
7 Supplier’s Data................................................ 21
Part 1 – Annex E.................................................... 23
Part 1 – Annex J - Material Selection and
Joining Methods for Auxiliary Piping......... 27
Part 2 – Non-Integrally Geared Centrifugal
and Axial Compressors ............................ 31
5 Accessories..................................................... 33
6 Inspection, Testing, and Preparation
for Shipment ............................................. 33
Part 3 – Integrally Geared Compressors ............... 35
for Shipment ............................................. 36
Part 4 – Expander-Compressors ........................... 37
for Shipment ............................................. 38
Revision Summary................................................. 38
Previous Issue: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 23 August 2020

Page 1 of 38
Contact: Ghamdi, Abdulrahman A. (ghamaa5l) on phone +966 13 880-9943
©Saudi Aramco 2017. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Compressors, Gears, and Steam Turbines Stds Committee 31-SAMSS-001
Issue Date: 23 August 2017
Next Planned Update: 23 August 2020 Axial and Centrifugal Compressors and Expander-Compressors
The following parts and paragraph numbers refer to API STD 617, Eighth Edition,
which is a part of this specification. The text in each paragraph below is an
addition, unless noted as an exception, modification, or deletion to API STD 617.
Paragraph numbers not appearing in API STD 617 are new paragraphs to be inserted in
numerical order. The requirements of this specification have precedence over the
content of API STD 617.
Part 1 – General Requirements
1 Scope
1.1 Scope
(Modification) This specification, together with the Data Sheet (SA-2812)

and the Purchase Order, covers mandatory requirements for centrifugal,
axial, and integrally geared compressors and expander-compressors.
1.1.2 Experience Requirements
Compressor Systems shall be supplied by Vendors qualified by experience

in manufacturing the units proposed. To qualify, the Vendor must have
manufactured at the proposed location of manufacture at least two
compressors/expanders of comparable design and configuration, speed,
power rating, and discharge pressure for a gas of comparable
characteristics to that of the intended duty. These compressors/expanders
must have been in continuous operation for two years or more without
problems. If the proposed location of manufacture is other than the
Vendor's originally approved facility (for example a licensee facility or an
acquired/merged facility) the Vendor must demonstrate compliance with
these qualification requirements for that facility.
The Vendor must demonstrate his experience on an individual component

and service condition basis, as listed below. Experience need not be
concentrated in a single reference, but may be spread through several
operating referenced designs. To qualify, the component installed in these
machines must have been in continuous operation in equivalent or more
severe duty for two years or more without problems.
The critical areas relative to equivalent service conditions which must be

demonstrated to the satisfaction of Saudi Aramco include, but are not
limited to the following:
1) Pressure
2) Gas composition, contaminants, Mol.Weight, and highest density
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3) Volumetric capacity and volume ratio

4) Power rating
5) Speed and Distance between bearings
6) Temperature
The critical areas relative to component design which must be

demonstrated to the satisfaction of Saudi Aramco include the following:
1) Dry Gas Seals and sealing system, which must be of a comparable
design and configuration, diameter, peripheral speed, power rating,
and differential pressure for a gas of comparable characteristics to
that of the intended duty
2) Bearing design and loading
3) Number of stages and staging arrangement
4) Casing size, design, and pressure rating
5) Casing joint design
6) Impellers and expander wheel structural design, power, and
performance
7) Material selection
In the area of component design, the Vendor must show that each
component has operated under similar or more severe conditions than
those of the proposed machine.
1.3 Conflicting Requirements
(Exception) Direct all requests to deviate from this specification in writing

to the Company or Buyer Representative, who shall follow company
procedure and forward such requests to Consulting Services Department,
Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.
2 Normative References
Material or equipment supplied to this specification shall also comply with applicable
sections of the latest edition (unless an edition is specified) of the references listed
below or in the body of this document.
2.1.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

13-SAMSS-001 Special Purpose Gear Units
Page 3 of 38
17-SAMSS-502 Form-Wound Induction Motors 500 HP and

Above
17-SAMSS-515 Auxiliary Electrical Systems for Skid Mounted
Equipment
17-SAMSS-520 Form-Wound Brushless Synchronous Motors
32-SAMSS-010 Special Purpose Steam Turbines
32-SAMSS-013 Lubrication, Shaft Sealing, and Control Oil
Systems
32-SAMSS-100 Combustion Gas Turbines
34-SAMSS-625 Machinery Protection Systems
34-SAMSS-820 Instrument Control Cabinets (Only as required
by Paragraph 3.4.3.1)
34-SAMSS-831 Package Unit Instrumentation
Saudi Aramco Inspection Requirements Form

175-311900 Compressor: Centrifugal
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

AA-036537 Dry Gas Seal System
AB-036521 Bridge Weld and Typical Brace Seal Welded,
and S.W. Valves on Process Lines
Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets

SA-2812 Centrifugal Compressors
SA-8020-415 Thermocouples
SA-8020-415-M
SA-8020-416 Resistance Temperature Detectors
2.1.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American National Standards Institute

ANSI C80.1 Rigid Steel Conduit - Zinc Coated
ANSI B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
American Petroleum Institute

API STD 617 (8th ed.) Axial and Centrifugal Compressors and
Expander-compressors for Petroleum,
Chemical, and Gas Industry Services
Page 4 of 38
American Society for Testing and Materials

ASTM A388 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination
of Heavy Steel Shaft Forgings
American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASME PTC 10 Performance Test Code on Compressors and
Exhausters
ASME SEC V Nondestructive Examination
ASME SEC VIII D1 Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
ASME B16.47 Large Diameter Steel Flanges
National Association of Corrosion Engineers/International Standardization

Organization
NACE MR0175/ISO 15156-3 Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries-
Materials for use in H2S-Containing
Environments in Oil and Gas Production
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NEMA RN 1 PVC Externally Coated Galvanized Rigid Steel
Conduit and Intermediate Metal Conduit
4 General
4.1 Dimensions and Units
(Modification) Any drawing or data related to equipment supplied to this

specification shall use the systems of units and dimensions specified in the
purchase order.
4.4 Basic Design
4.4.1 General
4.4.1.1 Performance
4.4.1.1.3 (Modification) The compressor power at the normal operating point shall
be guaranteed within 1% positive tolerance. For compressors with an inlet
flow coefficient greater than 0.02, the compressor polytropic efficiency at
normal operating point shall be 81% minimum. The flow coefficient
definition is per ASME PTC 10.
4.4.1.1.4 (Modification) The sectional overload condition shall be as specified in the

respective chapter for each type of compressor.
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4.4.1.3 If sea water cooling is used, a design inlet temperature of 35°C (95°F)
shall be used.
4.4.1.9 Unless otherwise specified, the equipment will be installed outdoors in a

desert area, with relative humidity from zero to 100% (condensing) and
ambient temperatures from 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 120°F). Metal temperature
can reach 70°C (158°F) when exposed to direct solar radiation.
The equipment shall be designed to withstand these conditions.
Additionally, equipment which is specified to be installed offshore or near

shore shall be protected against failure due to windborne seawater spray
and the accumulation of wetted salts.
4.4.1.10 (Modification) Equipment sound pressure maximum levels for integrated

unit train is 90 dB(A) at a distance of one meter. Control of the sound
pressure level to meet the requirements of 90 dBA specified on the data
sheet shall be the sole responsibility of the Vendor.
4.5 Materials
4.5.1 General
4.5.1.1 (Modification) The compressor components materials of construction shall

be completed in the datasheet during bidding and submitted to Consulting
Services Department for review and approval. Change of any materials
after the bidding phase is not allowed unless approved by Consulting
Services Department.
4.5.1.4 Compressor impellers shall be ultrasonically and magnetic particle

examined in accordance with a written procedure meeting the
requirements of ASME SEC VIII D1 or equivalent international
standards. The procedure shall include detailed UT scan plans for
the specific impeller parts to be tested.
The acceptance criteria to be used are:

- All cracks are rejectable regardless of the size.
- Linear indications with major dimension greater than 1.6 millimeters
(1/16 inch) are rejectable. Linear indications that are shown to be not
cracks and with major dimension equal to or less than 1.6 millimeters
(1/16 inch) are acceptable.
4.5.1.6 (Modification) This paragraph and the NACE MR0175/ISO 15156-3

requirements shall apply to all materials exposed to the gas when the
partial pressure of hydrogen sulfide in the gas exceeds 0.05 psia
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(0.34 kPa). All casing, impeller and shaft welds, including repair welds,
in contact with the service gas shall include hardness testing as part of the
welding procedure qualification. Testing may be performed on a sample
(mock-up test).
Shafts of between bearing machines may exceed the limits of material

hardness and yield strength if it can be shown that stress levels in the shaft
in contact with the process gas are low. Details of the proposed shaft
material, hardness, yield strength, and expected stress levels must be
forwarded for approval to Consulting Services Department.
4.5.3 Forgings
4.5.3.1 Forgings for rotor components shall be ultrasonically examined after

pre-machining in accordance with a written procedure meeting the
requirements of ASTM A388 or equivalent international standards.
The procedure shall include detailed UT scan plans for the specific parts to
be tested. The acceptance criteria to be used are:
For straight beam testing

1) Any indication equal to or exceeding 10% of the reference back
reflection from an adjacent area free from indications is rejectable.
2) Any area showing a loss of back reflection larger than 20% of the
reference back reflection is rejectable.
For angle beam testing

1) Indications exceeding 50% of the reflection from the reference notch
or of the amplitude reference line shall be investigated; indications
interpreted to be cracks, lack of fusion, or incomplete penetration are
rejectable regardless of length.
2) All linear indications are rejectable regardless of length.
4.5.3.2 (Exception) Refer to Section 4.6.2.
4.6 Casings
4.6.1 Pressure-containing Casings
4.6.1.3 The use of ductile iron casings for air or other nonflammable services may
be acceptable subject to the approval by the Compressors, Gears, and
Steam Turbines Standards Committee Chairman. Cast Iron or ductile iron
casings are prohibited for all other services.
Page 7 of 38
4.6.1.7.3 All threaded stud or bolt holes in casing and diaphragms shall be spaced a
minimum of ½ stud/bolt diameter from any wall/edge or other holes.
4.6.2 Casing Repairs and Inspections
4.6.2.2 (Modification) Weld repairs to impellers or shafts after final machining

for any materials other than P1, P8, or P4x materials are prohibited.
Major repairs require prior approval by submittal through the Company or
Buyer Representative to the Compressors, Gears, and Steam Turbines
Standards Committee Chairman. Re-testing per the applicable material
standards, inspection requirement, or requirements of this specification
must be conducted following major repairs. The following definitions of
repair and major repair shall be used;
Repair: Any procedure that will require anything other than minor
machining or grinding (e.g., welding, plating, sleeving, etc.).
Major repair: Any of the repairs for the components listed:

a) Shaft or gear: Any repair.
b) Casing (including end covers, nozzles, and pressure containing welds),
impellers, diffusers, and diaphragms made of carbon steel (ASME P1),
austenitic stainless steel (P8), or nickel-based alloys (P4x), any defect
that equals or exceeds any of the criteria defined below:
1) The depth of the cavity prepared for repair welding exceeds 50%
of the component wall thickness.
2) The length of the cavity prepared for repair welding is longer
than 6 in. (150 mm) in any direction.
3) The total area of all repairs to the part under repair exceeds 10%
of the surface area of the part.
4) The defect allows leakage to atmosphere.
4.6.3 Material Inspection of Pressure-containing Parts
4.6.3.2 Fabricated casings shall be nondestructively examined in accordance with

the ASME Code as follows:
1) All longitudinal and circumferential butt welds shall be 100%
radiographed. For welds on forged or plate stock carbon steel parts,
UT is an acceptable alternative.
2) All other welds shall be fully examined by magnetic particle
methods in ferromagnetic materials or by liquid penetrant methods
Page 8 of 38
in non-magnetic materials.
4.6.4 Pressure Casing Connections
4.6.4.2 Main Process Connections
4.6.4.2.2 (Exception) Flanges shall conform to ANSI B16.5. Flanges above 24-inch
NPS shall conform to ASME B16.47 Series A in Class 150 - 900.
Flanges over Class 600 operating in a piping system shall be ring-jointed.
4.6.4.2.7 (Exception) Steel flanges shall be raised-face.
4.6.7 Guide Vanes, Stators, and Stationary Internals
All internal compressor labyrinth seals shall be either of High Temperature

Polymers with slanted angle teeth designed for compressor applications, or
shall be of Mica-Filled Teflon [Abradable seals] with Rotating Labyrinths
of steel. In gas services containing no mercury, other materials may be
considered with the approval of Consulting Services Department.
4.7 Rotating Elements
4.7.5 The maximum stress, at maximum continuous speed, within any of the
rotor’s components (including impellers) shall not exceed 80% of the
material yield strength. Impeller shroud minimum thickness shall not be
less than 3 mm. If requested, impeller dimensions and stress analysis shall
be submitted for review and approval.
4.7.6 (Exception) Thrust collars (discs) shall be replaceable. Hydraulically

fitted collars with axial mechanical stop in both directions (e.g., shaft
shoulder and retaining nut) are required. The Vendor shall supply one set
of all special tools, and procedures required for the installation and
removal of the collars through the Company or Buyer Representative.
4.7.9 Any axial clearance requirement between shaft sleeves to allow for
expansion shall be clearly indicated on the rotor drawing. The method of
impeller attachment to the shaft and any interference fit requirement shall
also be clearly specified on the rotor drawing.
4.7.10 Impellers
4.7.10.1 (Modification) Cast impellers are not acceptable. Impellers shall be made
from forgings and shall be of single-piece or two-piece construction.
Alternatives, with justification, require the approval of Compressors,
Gears, and Steam Turbines Standards Committee Chairman.
Page 9 of 38
4.7.10.2 (Modification) For manually welded impellers, full profile grinding of all
vane to disc and cover welds is required at both vane entrance and exit for a
minimum length of two inches or 10% of vane length, whichever is less.
No weld undercut is permitted for the profile ground areas. Profile grinding
shall be performed in accordance with the requirements of Figure 1 or
Figure 2 of Annex K.
4.7.10.8 Metal plating of impeller bores is not acceptable.
4.8 Dynamics
4.8.1 General
All reports on Lateral Analysis (including Stability Analysis) and Torsional

Analysis shall be submitted for review and approval by the Dynamic
Analysis Group of Consulting Services Department. Compressor rotors
operating above the second bending lateral critical speed are not allowed, at
proposal stage, without prior approval by the Dynamic Analysis Group of
Consulting Services Department.
4.8.2 Lateral Analysis
4.8.2.1 Amplification factors shall not exceed 14 for any critical speed lower than
trip speed.
4.8.2.4.h The use of squeeze film dampers is not allowed without strong justification
and prior approval of Consulting Services Department.
4.8.2.8 The plots in the analysis report shall be provided for the range of
conditions and parameters covered in paragraph 4.8.2.4.
4.8.2.9 Bode plots and deflected rotor shape plots, clearly stating the assumed
parameters shall be provided for the additional analyses to be used during
the Unbalanced Rotor Response Verification Test.
4.8.3.5 Additionally, shaft deflection requirements of paragraphs 4.8.4.2.a and b

shall be met during the mechanical running test and the unbalance
response test.
4.8.7 Torsional Analysis
4.8.7.2 The Vendor having unit responsibility shall conduct a torsional vibration
analysis of the complete train, and submit its report for review and approval.
4.8.7.7 The Vendor having unit responsibility shall demonstrate that the stress
levels in the entire drive train at torsional resonance are within
Page 10 of 38
internationally accepted safety margins from fatigue damage. The basis

for the analysis including all associated assumptions shall be provided.
4.8.7.8.4 For synchronous motor driven trains, a flexible spacer coupling shall be
provided. If the train torsional analysis indicates that using a standard
flexible spacer coupling results in exceeding the allowable shaft fatigue
stress, then alternative designs (e.g., quill-shaft spacer coupling, torsionally
damping coupling) shall be proposed. Minimum acceptable design life for
all train components in units passing through torsional resonances during
start-up shall be 1,000 starts.
4.8.8 Vibration and Balancing
4.8.8.2.2 If a rotating element has to be disassembled after final balancing to allow

for compressor assembly, a balance repeatability check shall be carried out
in accordance with this paragraph.
4.8.8.3.2 Operating-speed balancing is an acceptable alternative to low-speed

sequential balancing.
4.8.8.9 Runout measurements on other supports equivalent to V-blocks are

acceptable.
4.9 Bearings and Bearing Housings
4.9.1 General
4.9.1.1 Magnetic bearings, when specified, shall meet the requirements of

Part 1 - Annex E.
4.9.1.2 Bearing metal temperature shall not exceed 105°C (221°F) at the loaded
area based on an oil inlet temperature of 60°C (140°F), design bearing
clearances and seal clearances that cause highest load.
4.9.2 Hydrodynamic Radial Bearings
4.9.2.1 Hydrodynamic radial bearings shall be of tilt-pad design and shall be split
for ease of assembly.
4.9.4 Bearing Housings
4.9.4.4 Wiring shall exit bearing housings using oil resistant and waterproof
fittings with oil resistant elastomer compression inserts to ensure zero
leakage of oil [Cable Gland seal].
4.9.4.6 (Exception) Any oil flow control orifices used within the housing shall be
replaceable and shall be clearly marked with the part number and/or orifice
Page 11 of 38
size. Minimum orifice diameter is 316 " (4.75 mm). They shall also be
identified on the assembly drawing.
4.10 Shaft End Seals
4.10.1 General
4.10.1.1 Dry gas seals shall be provided for all flammable and toxic services.
4.10.1.3 (Modification) The maximum sealing pressure shall be at least equal to the
maximum specified discharge pressure.
4.10.4 Self-Acting Dry Gas Seal
4.10.4.1 (Modification) The seals shall be of the tandem arrangement with

intermediate labyrinth and an isolating (tertiary) seal between the bearing
housing and the seal chamber. Double seals may be considered in lieu of
the tandem arrangement, with approval, for toxic gases or compressors
with suction pressures lower than the highest flare header pressure.
The isolating seal shall be no-contacting type or face type and shall
positively prevent process gas leakage to the lube oil system or, vice versa,
lube oil/mist carryover to the gas seals. The intermediate labyrinth and
isolating seals shall be provided with nitrogen purge. The Vendor shall
ensure that it is impossible to install uni-directional faces in the wrong
orientation.
The guaranteed leakage rate for each seal shall be stated in the Vendor's
proposal and shall be no greater than 5 scfm (141 liters/min) for any
service with an inlet pressure less than 200 bars. The Vendor shall
demonstrate adherence to these rates during shop tests, and later in field
tests at contract conditions during commissioning. The Seal System shall
be supplied by the Dry Gas Seal supplier, or as a minimum, the Seal
System design shall be approved by the Dry Gas Seal supplier and
confirmed not cause failure or impact the reliability of any of the
compressor seals. The Seal System supplier shall demonstrate in a
functional test, the ability of the seal gas system to provide the required
amount of seal gas, and its ability to detect and give warning of any seal
failure.
4.10.4.2 (Modification) The seal system shall be in accordance with Standard

Drawing AA-036537, Section 5.6, and the requirements of 32-SAMSS-013.
In lieu of tripping on flow, trip may be on differential pressure across the
primary seal (or primary seal leakage pressure if approved by CSD), with
alarm on leakage flow.
Page 12 of 38
4.12 Nameplates and Rotation Arrows
4.12.1 Nameplates shall be in the English language and shall also include
Purchase Order number.
5 Accessories
5.1 Drivers and Gearing
5.1.3 The compressor vendor shall show on the compressor speed torque curve
the moment of inertia and suction conditions assumed in the calculation of
the curve. Slow-rolling or barring shaft devices shall not be required on
motor driven centrifugal compressors.
5.1.4 (Modification) Steam turbine drivers, when specified, shall be in

accordance with 32-SAMSS-010.
5.1.5 (Exception) For motor-driven units, the motor shall be in accordance with
17-SAMSS-502 or 17-SAMSS-520, as specified on the Data Sheet.
The motor nameplate rating (exclusive of service factor) shall be a minimum
of 110% of the greatest horsepower (including gear and coupling losses)
required for any of the specified operating conditions. The motor shall also
be capable of bringing the compressor train to normal speed within the
maximum safe allowable motor start time stipulated by the motor Vendor
when started under conditions specified by the Purchaser.
5.1.6 (Modification) Gas turbine drivers, when specified, shall be in accordance

with 32-SAMSS-100.
5.1.8 (Exception) Separate speed increasers and reducers shall be in accordance

with 13-SAMSS-001.
5.2 Couplings and Guards
5.2.2 Diaphragm or disc pack spacer couplings shall be used. Diaphragms or

disc packs shall be provided with corrosion resistant coatings, or shall be
made from corrosion resistant materials. If disc pack couplings are used,
they shall be furnished with adapter flanges. Hubs which are bolted
directly to the disc pack are not acceptable. Couplings shall be capable of
absorbing the maximum axial thermal growth plus the axial magnetic
centering force when connected to an electric motor. Spacers shall be used
for all applications irrespective of hub type, and shall be of sufficient
length to enable hub and seal removal without the need to move
machinery. The minimum length of spacers shall be 18 inches (0.45 m),
Page 13 of 38
except in a compressor directly driven by turbine where the minimum

spacer length shall be 30 inches (0.75 m).
The coupling minimum angular misalignment rating shall be ⅓ degree.
5.2.6 Hydraulically fitted couplings (including tools) are required for

compressor and pinion gear shaft ends. Integral hubs for motors and gear
rotors are acceptable.
5.2.7 All coupling guards shall be fully enclosed. Enclosures shall be of

sufficient size to permit adequate heat dissipation to prevent overheating.
Oil spray cooling is not acceptable. The coupling guard drain shall not be
used as, or in combination with, the bearing housing drain.
5.3 Lubrication and Sealing Systems
5.3.3 Lube oil systems shall be in accordance with 32-SAMSS-013 Parts 1 and 2.
5.4 Mounting Plates
5.4.1 General
5.4.1.1 (Exception) The equipment shall be furnished with baseplates.
5.4.1.2.3 (Modifications)
b) All mounting surfaces in the same horizontal plane shall be within
250 μm (0.01 in.).
d) Different mounting planes shall be parallel to each other within
250 μm (0.01 in.).
5.4.2 Baseplates
5.4.2.1 The baseplate shall be constructed with longitudinal steel beams and full-
depth cross members. Cross members must be located underneath all
supports for machinery. All welding shall be continuous. For steam
turbine driven and motor driven compressors, the driver, transmission, and
compressor shall be mounted on a common baseplate, unless otherwise
approved by Consulting Services Department.
5.4.2.4 (Exception) The baseplate shall be provided with decking welded to the
peripheral and cross members. All walk areas shall be provided with non-
slip decking (e.g., grit coated). Floor plates with diamond or other patterns
shall not be used. Baseplate design shall not allow any liquids to collect
on the surface.
Page 14 of 38
5.4.2.5 The baseplates shall be suitable for column mounting when mezzanine
mounting is specified by the purchaser.
5.4.2.10 The baseplate shall have machined mounting pads that straddle all anchor
bolt hole locations.
5.4.2.12 An integrated lube oil reservoir within the baseplate is not acceptable.
5.5 Controls and Instrumentation
5.5.1 General
5.5.1.2 (Exception) Instrumentation shall comply with the relevant sections of

34-SAMSS-831.
5.5.1.8 Closed conduits shall be used for routing cables and shall be threaded, hot-
dip galvanized, rigid steel per ANSI C80.1. Certified, liquid-tight flexible
conduits suitable for the area classification may be used only between the
rigid conduit and terminal head to tolerate vibration. Conduit fittings shall
be steel, cast iron or malleable iron, and hot dip galvanized or zinc
electroplated. Nickel-plated brass conduit fittings are also acceptable.
Additionally, for offshore or nearshore installations, the conduit, and
fittings shall be PVC coated per NEMA RN 1 (minimum thickness of
PVC: 40 mils).
As an alternative to the rigid conduits mentioned above, armored cables

routed on aluminum or stainless steel cable trays may be used.
The armored cables shall be suitable for the area classification and shall be
terminated using EExd glands with barrier seal at each end. The armored
cable shall be individually routed on the trays not bunched or joined to
adjacent cables. The cable trays supporting the armored cable shall be
elevated from the skid base plate and shall not be supported by any on-skid
piping. The cable trays shall not be routed underneath or across the top of
the compressor and clear maintenance access shall be provided.
5.5.3 Instrument and Control Panels
Pressure gauges as specified shall be mounted on a local gauge board.

RTD wiring shall have dedicated terminal box(es).
If a compressor control panel/cabinet is required, it shall be installed

indoors and shall comply with 34-SAMSS-820.
5.5.5 Alarms and Shutdowns
The alarm and shutdown system shall be as specified in the purchase order
Page 15 of 38
and on the data sheets. For compressors driven by VFD motors, 2-o-o-3
overspeed trip protection shall be provided based on shaft speed
measurement. Electric switches shall be fail safe devices that close
(energize) during normal operation and open (de-energize) to alarm or trip.
5.5.6 (Exception) Electrical installation shall be in accordance with

17-SAMSS-515.
5.5.7 Vibration, Position, and Bearing Temperature Detectors
(Exception) Vibration detectors, key phasors, shaft axial position monitors

and bearing temperature detectors shall comply with 34-SAMSS-625.
As a minimum, each compressor shall be fitted with two shaft relative
displacement (non-contacting) sensors (X&Y) at each bearing location and
dual axial position probes on each shaft equipped with a thrust bearing.
Each compressor train shall be fitted with one key phasor per casing.
Settings for alarm and shutdown shall be recommended by the compressor
and driver Vendors and, where applicable, the gear Vendor.
Each radial and thrust bearing shall be provided with two temperature
sensors or a single duplex type sensor. All wiring must terminate in a
single externally mounted terminal box that is accessible. Bearing
temperature sensors shall be supplied in accordance with Forms SA-8020-
415, SA-8020-415-M, and SA-8020-416.
5.6 Piping and Appurtenances
5.6.1 General
5.6.1.1 (Modification) Auxiliary piping sizing, materials and joining method shall
be in accordance with Table J-1 in Annex J. All piping systems shall be
provided with vent valves at highest points and drain valves at lowest
points. Horizontal runs in pressure piping shall slope gradually towards
drain points. The minimum slope of drain lines shall be 1:50. Vents and
drains shall be flanged for connection at site.
5.6.1.4 The vendor shall submit a 3D drawing of the proposed compressor skid
detail drawing for Company review and approval during the detailed
design phase. All auxiliary piping and conduits or cable trays shall be
routed adjacent to or below the compressor. A block valve, ¾-inch NPS
minimum, shall be installed in each instrument take-off connection from
the main lines and shall be located as close as feasible to this main line,
vessel, or mechanical equipment. One common instrument air supply and
one common Nitrogen supply connections shall be provided for each skid.
Page 16 of 38
5.6.1.5 Bearing and coupling drains shall be provided and routed to their respective
console return manifolds. All casing drain valves shall be located in an
accessible area, outside the compressor footprint. Drain lines shall be piped
separately (not to a common manifold) to flanged terminations at the edge of
the baseplate for connection to the closed drain system.
5.6.1.7 Tubing shall not be used in services with a maximum pressure above
3,400 kPa (500 psig) or a maximum temperature above 120°C.
The minimum size of auxiliary piping and tubing shall be ½-inch NPS.
5.6.1.8 Piping of 1-½ inch NPS or smaller shall be provided with firm, welded
gussets or braces in two perpendicular planes at the take-off connection
between the machinery or auxiliary equipment and the first block (root)
valve. Refer to Standard Drawing AB-036521 for valve bracing. Tubing
shall be clipped with clamps.
5.6.1.9 Fittings and flanges shall conform to the following Standards or equivalent
international specifications:
a) Malleable iron threaded fittings, ASME B16.3 Class 150 with
material to ASTM A197, hot dip galvanized to ASTM A153.
b) Flanges, carbon steel to ASME B16.5 and stainless steel to
ASTM A182 Grade TP-316L.
c) Butt welding fittings to ASME B16.9. Stainless steel to ASTM A403
Grade WP-316L.
d) Socket welding and threaded fittings shall be ASME B16.11
Class 3000 or Class 6000 carbon steel to ASTM A105 N and stainless
steel to ASTM A182 Grades F-316L.
e) For tubing, connectors and adapters shall be compression type
meeting UNS S-31600 and ASTM A276.
5.6.1.10 Miter fittings such as miter elbows or miter bends are prohibited.
5.6.1.11 Gaskets for raised flanges shall be spiral-wound, Type 316 stainless steel.
Gaskets for ring joint flanges shall be soft iron octagonal ring. Gaskets
containing asbestos are not permitted.
5.6.1.12 Auxiliary process gas valves shall be in accordance with API STD 602
Class 800 or ASME B16.34 with rating as required for the service
conditions. Valve materials shall be as required for the service but as a
minimum shall be forged or cast steel to ASTM A105 or A216 Grade
WCB with trim to 11-13% chrome AISI 410 stainless steel. For throttling
service, globe, or needle valves shall be used.
Page 17 of 38
5.6.1.13 Fabrication Requirements
5.6.1.13.1 Pipe bends shall have surfaces free of cracks and buckles. Flattening of
the cross section of bends shall not exceed 8% of the nominal pipe
diameter. Bending procedures and heat treatment requirements shall be in
accordance with ASME B31.3.
5.6.1.13.2 Where pipe, fittings, and flanges are to be joined by butt welds, the
corresponding parts shall be matched such that any misalignment at the
inside of the piping shall not exceed 1.5 mm at any point on the
circumference of the joint.
5.6.1.13.3 All welds must meet the minimum quality requirements of ASME B31.3
together with the following additional requirements:
a) For pipe sizes 2 inch and smaller the first pass of butt welded joints
shall be made with Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) process.
b) Permanent backing rings are prohibited, but consumable inserts of the
same chemistry as the remaining weld metal may be used.
5.6.1.13.4 Brackets and supports welded on the mechanical equipment or on the

baseplate shall have full length welds. Intermittent welding is prohibited.
Brackets material shall be selected to prevent galvanic corrosion.
5.6.1.13.5 Shop fabricated piping shall be cleaned internally prior to installing on the
mechanical equipment and prior to mechanical or performance testing.
Stainless steel lube oil and seal oil piping downstream of the filter shall be
mechanically cleaned at welds to the extent that all foreign materials are
removed. All other piping shall be cleaned by steam, air or water flushing
and if necessary by mechanical cleaning. All piping shall be completely
drained and dried after cleaning and after hydrotesting. All carbon steel
piping shipped uninstalled shall be flushed with a rust preventative prior to
shipment.
6 Inspection, Testing, and Preparation for Shipment
6.2 Inspection
6.2.1 General
6.2.1.3 Butt-welds in auxiliary piping shall be subjected to 10% random

radiographic examination (i.e., one complete girth weld from every 10 girth
welds as selected by Buyer's Inspector). However, a minimum of two girth
welds shall be radio graphed, regardless of the lot size. One hundred
Page 18 of 38
percent (100%) radiography is required for auxiliary piping in hydrocarbon

service on offshore platforms.
6.2.1.6 Hardness, welds, etc., shall be verified per the requirements of paragraph
2.2.1.6.
6.3 Testing
6.3.1.2 (Exception) The Vendor shall submit, for Company approval, detailed test
procedures, acceptance criteria and dated schedule for the mechanical and
performance tests at least 12 weeks prior to the scheduled tests.
Comments on these test procedures shall be submitted back to the Vendor
at least four weeks prior to the scheduled tests. Other tests should be in
accordance with the Inspection and Test Plan (ITP).
6.3.5 Mechanical Running Test
6.3.5.9.1 Calibration of the vibration probe and monitor circuits to be used shall be
verified immediately prior to the test, utilizing a wobulator or equivalent
device or method. Alternatively, recent calibration certificates for the
vibration measurement circuits shall be provided.
6.3.5.9.3.1 Polar plots shall also be furnished.
6.3.5.9.5 e) Isolating seal buffer gas flow rate shall be monitored for each seal.
Upon completion of the test any evidence of oil inboard of the isolating
seals, by checking the drain lines, is cause for rejection.
6.3.5.9.6 The oil pressures and temperatures shall be varied through their allowable
ranges during the test. The oil shall be held at minimum pressure and
maximum temperature (producing lowest viscosity) for at least 15 minutes
and the vibration and temperatures recorded. The same should be done at
maximum pressure and minimum temperature (producing the highest
viscosity) for at least 15 minutes with the vibration and temperatures
recorded. This shall also be repeated at minimum, normal, and maximum
continuous speeds for variable speed compressors.
6.3.5.9.7 (Modification) The test shall be performed using the design lube oil
specified on the data sheet. When the lube oil specified on the data sheet
is not available, the test may be conducted using shop lube oil conditioned
to a viscosity equivalent to that of the specified oil at site operating
conditions. Bearing metal temperatures shall not exceed 45°C (81°F)
above oil supply temperature.
Page 19 of 38
Commentary Note:
As an example, if ISO VG46 is specified and ISO VG 32 is the test stand

oil, the VG 32 oil temperature would be lowered to achieve a viscosity
during the test equivalent to VG46 at site conditions.
6.3.5.12 Upon completion of the test, the purchaser shall be provided with copies of
all test data, graphs and charts. The data shall be arranged in a format that
clearly show acceptance criteria versus test measurements for each
parameter. Additionally, charts of shaft deflection during the mechanical
running test and the unbalance response test shall be provided to verify
compliance to the requirements of paragraphs 2.6.4.2.a and b.
6.3.6 Assembled Compressor Gas Leakage Test
(Modification) The assembled compressor, with or without end seals, shall

undergo a gas leakage test while pressurized to the maximum specified
discharge pressure. The test shall be considered satisfactory when no leaks
are observed anywhere on casing (including bolt holes, welds, etc.) or casing
joints.
6.3.7 Optional Tests
6.3.7.3 Gas Test after Hydro
For compressors in hydrogen services, the casing shall be tested for gas
leakage with helium after the hydrostatic test.
6.3.7.5 Auxiliary Equipment Test
Auxiliary equipment shall be completely tested prior to shipment to site.

Testing may be performed at the compressor Vendor shop or at the
auxiliary equipment supplier shop.
6.3.7.6 Post-Test Inspection of Compressor Internals
(Modification) A post-test inspection of compressor internals is required

only if there were indications during the testing that internal damage may
have occurred. In that case, the Assembled Machine Gas Leakage Test
shall be performed after the post-test inspection.
6.3.7.8 Post-test Inspection of the Hydraulic Coupling Fit
After the running tests, hydraulically mounted couplings shall be inspected

by comparing hub/shaft match marks to ensure that the coupling hub has
not moved on the shaft during the tests.
Page 20 of 38
6.4 Preparation for Shipment
6.4.3.9 Loose components shall be properly identified with tags prior to crating or
boxing. Individual components shall be marked or tagged with its
equipment number, description, drawing number, and item number as
marked on the drawing. Piping which cannot be installed on the
mechanical equipment during transport for reasons of space or risk of
damage shall be packed in a wooden box or crate and shall be shipped
together with the mechanical equipment.
6.4.3.10 (Modification) Spare Rotors, diaphragms and complete bundles shall be

fully coated with rust preventative coatings, compatible with the process
gas, and shall be housed in a container with vapor-barrier, slow-release
volatile-corrosion inhibitor. Packaging shall be prepared for no less than
5 years shaded storage. If specified in the P.O., the container shall be
designed liquid tight for filling at site with preservation oil to fully
immerse the spare parts.
6.4.3.13 The assembly of machine or skid mounted components (e.g., piping,

intercoolers) shall be completed in the supplier’s shop prior to shipment.
For any shipped-loose components to be mounted or attached to skid at
site, the fit-up shall be completed in the supplier’s shop prior to shipment.
7 Supplier’s Data
7.2 Proposals
7.2.3 Technical Data
7.2.3 q) The Vendor shall state the guaranteed rates for primary seal leakage,
secondary seal gas supply, secondary seal leakage, and separation seal gas
supply.
7.3 Contract Data
7.3.2 Curves and Data Sheets
7.3.2.1 Curves
7.3.2.1.1 The Vendor shall supply an operating map and nozzle-to-nozzle

performance curves for the compressor based on test results. For variable
speed or AIGV operation, the Vendor shall supply curves showing change
of head, power, and efficiency versus speed - or AIGV position - covering
the complete range of operation. Certified copies of test data are required.
Page 21 of 38
7.3.5 Installation, Operation, Maintenance, and Technical Data Manuals
7.3.5.1 General
7.3.5.1.1 Searchable electronic copies of the installation, operation, maintenance,

and technical data manuals shall be provided. Cold alignment data for the
entire train shall be presented as a table or a graph and shall be included in
both the installation and maintenance manuals.
7.3.5.3 Operating and Maintenance Manual
Instruction and operation manuals shall contain a listing of conditions that

must be met to start, operate, maintain and shutdown the unit. This listing
shall include all temperature and pressure settings, controller set points,
etc., to serve as a checklist.
Page 22 of 38
Part 1 – Annex E
E.4.4 Basic Design
Any restrictions to the machine’s operating envelope arising because of the

use of active magnetic bearings shall be clearly identified in the vendor's
proposal.
E.4.4.1 The vendor shall also provide the following additional requirements:
 Special tools as required for installation and maintenance.
 Power and instrumentation interconnecting wiring from the bearings
and auxiliary instrumentation to the control cabinet.
 Any required cooling systems for the bearings and the control system.
E.4.4.2 The magnetic bearing vendor shall confirm that all equipment will not
malfunction when subjected to an electromagnetic field from radiating
sources, in particular hand held radio transceivers (walkie-talkies),
operating at 5 watts within the frequency range of 68 MHz to 470 MHz.
E.4.5 Materials
For bearings that are normally not in contact with the process gas, the
windings, insulation, laminations and backup bearings shall be designed so
that exposure to the process gas (e.g., upon seal failure) can be tolerated
without failing the magnetic bearings or the backup bearings.
E.4.8 Dynamics
E.4.8.3 Closed Loop Transfer Function Model Verification Test
E.4.8.3.1.2 In addition to the unbalance rotor response verification test, a Transfer

Function Model Verification Test as described in E.4.8.3.2 through
E.4.8.3.11 shall be performed. Nevertheless, for designs where the
unbalance rotor response verification test cannot be performed without
complete disassembly of the machine, the Vendor may propose the
Transfer Function Model Verification Test as a substitute, if approved by
the Dynamic Analysis Group of Consulting Services Department.
E.4.9 Bearings and Housings
E.4.9.1 General
(Modification) Magnetic bearings shall be designed for the maximum
Page 23 of 38
possible static and dynamic loads under worst-case operating conditions

(e.g., at worst case pressure, speed, temperature, mol. wt., and ambient
conditions) in addition to surge, trip and shutdown/coastdown conditions,
and while considering maximum sensor runout. For each magnetic
bearing, the maximum bearing load shall not exceed 50% of the bearing’s
load capacity.
E.4.9.4 Auxiliary Bearing System
E.4.9.4.8 (Modification) The auxiliary bearing system shall be designed to sustain a

minimum of five de-levitations from trip speed at full compressor load,
due to magnetic bearing failure, before replacement would be needed.
E.5 Other AMB Subsystems and Components
E.5.1.2 The control system shall include continuous monitoring capability and
remote communication with standard Modbus protocol compatible with
the Purchaser supplied DCS system. The control system shall be fail-safe
and shall be a fully digital system with self-diagnostic capabilities to
permit identification of sensor or control board level faults. The magnetic
bearing vendor shall supply a listing of all controller addresses for all
signals available across the DCS link. As a minimum, the following
signals shall be available:
 Vibration
 Shaft position
 Bearing temperatures
 Amplifier currents (DC & AC)
 Bearing loads
 Rotor speed
 Auxiliary bearing contact counter
 Control system and amplifier status
Control system cards shall be rigid, robust, and conformally coated.

Each card shall be identified by type, revision number, and shall have
provision to add rack, slot, and module address number if applicable.
All cards incorporating edge connections shall be provided with gold
plated contacts and shall be keyed to prevent improper board placement.
E.5.1.7 Enclosures for field-mounted equipment shall be of 316 stainless steel

construction and certified to NEMA 4X or equivalent international
standards. All field-mounted equipment shall be suitable for
the area classification specified by the purchaser.
Page 24 of 38
E.5.2 Cabling
E.5.2.1 (Exception) The cable length between the skid mounted junction boxes
and the magnetic bearing control cabinet shall be defined by the purchaser.
The magnetic bearing vendor shall identify cable sizes and types,
installation procedures, maximum allowable cable lengths, and any
additional hardware required for power and instrumentation systems to
provide reliable control and power operations over the distance specified.
All cable between skid edge and remote control cabinets shall be suitable
for direct burial.
E.5.3 Rotor Position Sensors
E.5.3.1 Redundant position sensors shall be provided and connected to enable

external switching of sensors without dismantling any part of the
compressor or bearing assemblies.
E.6.3 Testing
E.6.3.4 The complete job control system shall be connected for each bearing and
rotor system during the performance and mechanical running tests.
Preliminary tuning of the bearing system shall be carried out to center the
rotor in the bearings, and the rotor shall be brought to running speed and
held there for a four-hour period.
Following this run, during the unbalance rotor response verification test
with an unbalance weight equivalent to the allowable unbalance limit
placed at an agreed upon location, the rotor shall be rerun maintaining the
same control tuning, and the vibration and bearing loads shall be recorded.
The controller shall then demonstrate the ability of the system to
compensate for the unbalance. Finally, the power shall be cut and the
ability of the back-up bearings to handle the rotor load during shutdown
shall be verified.
E.6.3.5 (Exception) The bearings and control system shall be tested to verify the
load capability of the bearings. This may be done statically but shall be no
less than 1.5 times the maximum design loads in both radial and axial
directions.
E.10 Documentation
In addition to documentation requirements specified in other paragraphs of

this specification, the magnetic bearing vendor shall provide an electronic,
searchable, complete maintenance and operation manual for the system.
This manual shall include as a minimum:
Page 25 of 38
 Full cross sectional and assembly drawings of the bearings

 Full bearing parts list
 Installation instructions
 Alarm and trip settings list
 Control system wiring and one-line diagrams
 Control protection sequence, functional logic diagrams, and cause and
effect diagrams
 Control strategy, controller modes, and recommended tuning
parameters
 Control system parts list and recommended spare parts
 Component test procedures and tuning procedure for the control
system
 Control system assembly drawing showing location of cards,
components, etc.
Page 26 of 38
Part 1 – Annex J - Material Selection and Joining Methods for Auxiliary Piping
Table J-1 – Sizing, Material Selection, and Joining Methods for Auxiliary Piping
Pipe Pipe Tubing
Size Range
Service Material Joining Material
inches
(1,2) (3,4,5) (6)
Control, Lube, Seal, ½ in. thru 1-½ in SS BW, FG, SW, TS ST
and Hydraulic oil 2 in. and Larger SS BW, FG
Auxiliary Process Gas ½ in. thru 1-½ in CS (7), SS BW, FG, SW ST
(e.g., drain, vent) 2 in. and Larger CS (7), SS BW, FG
Nitrogen, Instrument, ½ in. thru 1-½ in SS, GS BW, FG, SW, TC, TS ST
or Plant Air 2 in. and Larger SS, GS BW, FG, TC
½ in. thru 1-½ in CS, SS BW, FG, SW ST
Instrument Process Lines
2 in. and Larger
½ in. thru 1-½ in CS BW, FG, TC, TS ST
Steam
2 in. and Larger CS BW, FG, TC
FG, TC
½ in. thru 1-½ in GS, CS
BW, FG, SW, TC ST
Utility Water
FG, TC
2 in. and Larger GS, CS
BW, FG
½ in. thru 1-½ in (8) BW, FG, SW
Sea Water
2 in. and Larger (8) BW, FG
Table Legend:
CS Carbon Steel Pipe: API 5L Seamless, ASTM A106 Grade B, or equivalent
SS Stainless Steel Pipe: ASTM 316L (weldable)
GS Galvanized Steel Pipe: ASTM A53, API Grade B, or equivalent
BW Buttwelded
FG Flanged
SW Socket Welded
TC Threaded and Coupled
TS Threaded and Coupled, Seal Welded
ST Stainless Steel Tube: ASTM A269; TP-316 without welding (TP-316L with welding)
Table Notes:
1) The minimum wall thickness of piping and butt welding fittings shall be Schedule 40 for sizes larger than
2-inch and Schedule 80 for sizes 2-inch and smaller. For lube oil service, Schedule 10S is acceptable for
sizes 2-inch and larger.
2) Galvanized steel pipe and malleable iron fittings are limited to temperatures between 0 and 90°C.
3) Flanges, socket welding and threaded fittings shall be the class, rating or wall thickness to match the pipe
ratings. Galvanized steel pipe Schedule 40 and malleable iron fittings shall be Class 150.
Page 27 of 38
4) Threaded connections shall conform to ASME B1.20.1 Pipe Threads. The material of the first threaded
nipple to mechanical equipment shall be compatible with the material of the equipment and the thickness
shall be minimum of Schedule 80. Socket welding and threaded joints are limited to sizes 1-½-inch and
smaller.
5) Socket welded or threaded fittings may be used where indicated for temperatures between -18 and
400°C. Above 400°C flanged connections are required. Socket welded end connections shall take
preference over threaded and seal welded connections.
6) Tubing may be used instead of pipe beyond the first valve in a line where socket welded or threaded
connections are normally permitted. For tubing, connectors and adapters shall be compression type
meeting UNS S-31600 and ASTM A276.
7) Corrosion resistant of selected material shall be based on the process fluid and operating conditions.
8) For sea water service, the material shall be stainless steel UNS S31254 welded with ERNiCrMo-3.
Page 28 of 38
Part 1 – Annex K
Figure 1
Page 29 of 38
Figure 2
Page 30 of 38
Part 2 – Non-integrally Geared Centrifugal and Axial Compressors
4.4 Basic Design
4.4.1.1 (Exception) The sectional head-capacity characteristic curve shall rise

continuously from maximum capacity point to surge point for the entire
operating window range (from minimum to maximum speeds or variable
Guide Vane positions) without the use of any restriction orifices.
The compressor shall be capable of continuous operation at any point
within the entire operating window range enclosed by the compressor
curves in the Vendor’s proposal. The Vendor shall guarantee that, at
normal speed, the head at the surge point will be at least 105% of the head
at the normal operating point on the curve.
The Vendor shall indicate clearly in the proposal datasheet and curves if
any of the operating points specified on the data sheets will be within 10%
or less from surge capacity. The Vendor shall also guarantee that the surge
capacity (without the use of a bypass) shall be no more than 70% of the
Normal operating point flow. The head-capacity curve at 100% speed
shall extend to at least 110% of the flow at Compressor Rated Point.
Surge capacities up to 80% of Normal flow and end of curve capacities

down to 105% of Rated flow may be accepted for service gases having
higher than 40 Molecular Weight if variable guide vanes or variable speed
operation is provided.
The Vendor shall specify relative inlet and absolute outlet Mach numbers
at maximum continuous speed and rated operating point for each impeller
exceeding the following limits:
For hydrocarbon gas service: 0.7 relative Mach at impeller inlet (eye)
For other services: 0.9 relative Mach at impeller inlet (eye)
4.6 Casings
4.6.1.3 Radially split casings shall have forged steel end cover(s) (head) if the
maximum allowable working pressure exceeds 6,900 kPa ga (1,000 psig).
Each end cover of a radially split compressor shall be utilize a minimum of
two radial O-rings to seal the end cover to casing. The O-rings shall be
continuous, and not of the jointed/glued type. In corrosive gas services,
the O-rings seal grooves and landings shall all be coated or weld-overlaid
with Inconel alloy.
4.6.1.5 (Modification) Except for air services, O-rings are not permitted in the top
and bottom flanges of axially split compressor casings.
Page 31 of 38
4.7 Rotating Elements
The maximum number of stages for centrifugal compressors, including

dummy stages, shall be limited to nine (9), unless supported by a Level II
rotordynamic stability analysis and evidence is provided of experience at
higher speeds with similar material rotors of greater bearing span and
smaller middle diameter.
4.7.2 Shafts
4.7.2.2 (Exception) Shafts shall be of one-piece design. Modular (through-bolt)

rotors are not acceptable.
4.7.3 Thrust Balancing
4.7.3.3 The Vendor shall provide a differential pressure indicating transmitter

showing the differential pressure between the balancing chamber and the
balance line outlet.
4.9.2 Hydrodynamic Radial Bearings
4.9.2.2 (Modification) Radial bearings shall be tilting-pad design, with steel-

backed babbitted replaceable precision bored pads. Other bearing designs
may be considered with the approval of Consulting Services Department.
4.9.3 Hydrodynamic Thrust Bearings
4.9.3.6 When directed lube thrust bearings are used, their design shall ensure that
the directed lube oil passages will not be plugged. Flooded lube thrust
bearings are also acceptable.
4.9.4 Bearing Housings
4.9.4.1 A non-separable lower-half of the bearing housing is acceptable provided

that access to the bearings does not require disassembly of the casing.
An atmospheric air gap between the compressor casing and the bearing
housing is not acceptable.
Page 32 of 38
5 Accessories
5.4 Mounting Plates
The Vendor shall provide sufficient baseplate space with a clear area at the
non-drive end of the compressor to accommodate inner barrel removal.
All required tools and detailed procedures for inner barrel removal shall be
provided by the Vendor. Any anti-friction bearings used for barrel support
shall be sized for the full barrel load.
6.3.1 Mechanical Running Test
6.3.1.1.10 (Modification) After operating at the Minimum Operating Speed (MOS)

for at least 10 minutes, the equipment shall be operated at speed
increments of approximately 10% from MOS to the MCS and then run at
MCS until bearing metal temperatures and shaft vibrations have stabilized.
6.3.3.1 Factory Performance Test
6.3.3.1.1 A performance test shall be conducted in the Vendor's shop for each
compressor service to verify the predicted aerodynamic and
thermodynamic performance. Reynolds number correction shall not be
applied to performance test data. All proposal performance curves shall be
corrected and reissued based on the results of the performance test. If the
test fails to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this
specification, the Vendor shall modify the compressor and repeat the
complete test at no additional cost to the Buyer.
6.3.3.1.2 In addition to the test points specified in 6.3.3.1.5, test points for
compressors with variable operation (e.g., Variable Speed, AIGVs) shall
also include surge, intermediate and maximum capacities at maximum,
minimum and at least three intermediate speeds or AIGV positions
(including speeds or guide vane positions corresponding to operating
conditions specified on the datasheet).
6.3.3.1.3 (Modification) The tolerances for power, surge and end of curve (capacity
limit or overload) shall be in accordance with the requirements of 4.4.1.1
in this specification.
6.3.3.1.5 (Modification) The tolerances for power, surge and end of curve (capacity
limit or overload) shall be in accordance with the requirements of 4.4.1.1
in this specification. Compressor test points shall include a minimum of
five points:
Page 33 of 38
- The capacity limit or overload

- An intermediate point between the capacity limit and the Normal
operating point (could be the Compressor Rated Point if it’s different
form the Normal operating point)
- The Normal operating point (obtained by two bracketing points)
- An intermediate point between the Normal operating point and surge
- Surge point
6.3.3.2 Complete Unit Test
(Modification) In lieu of separate Mechanical Running Tests of individual

components, a complete unit test may be performed. This is also
applicable for Full-load/Full-pressure/Full-speed testing which can
additionally substitute for the compressor Performance Test.
Page 34 of 38
Part 3 – Integrally Geared Compressors
4.4.1 Performance
4.4.1.1 (Exception) unless otherwise specified, Adjustable Inlet Guide Vanes

(AIGVs) shall be the main method of performance variation. The head-
capacity characteristic curve shall rise continuously from maximum
capacity point to surge point for the range from minimum vane position to
maximum vane position without the use of any restriction orifices.
The Vendor shall guarantee that the head at the surge point will be at least
105% of the head at the normal operating point on the curve.
The compressor, without the use of a bypass, shall be capable of

continuous operation at any point within the operating window enclosed
by the curves submitted in the Vendor’s proposal. The Vendor shall also
guarantee that the surge capacity (without the use of a bypass) shall be no
more than 80% of the capacity at normal operating point. The Vendor
shall also indicate if any of the other operating points specified on the data
sheets will be within 10% from surge capacity.
The head-capacity curve of the rated point shall extend to at least 105% of
the capacity at Compressor Rated Point.
Curves shall be provided showing the surge capacity and normal operating
point for each section and for overall operation.
4.4.1.2 (Modification) Unless otherwise specified, the design lubricant shall be

hydrocarbon oil of viscosity Grade 46 with a FZG load stage of 5.
4.9.3 Hydrodynamic Thrust Bearings
4.9.3.1 (Modification) Flat-land, tapered-land or antifriction thrust bearings are

not allowed.
5.5.7 Vibration, Position, and Bearing Temperature
5.5.7.7 Vibration detectors, key phasors, shaft axial position monitors, and bearing
temperature detectors shall be in accordance with 34-SAMSS-625.
Page 35 of 38
An accelerometer shall be provided, mounted horizontally on the gearbox

shaft bearing housing.
6.3 Testing
6.3.3.1 Performance Test
(Exception) A performance test shall be conducted in the Vendor's shop

for each compressor service to verify the predicted aerodynamic and
thermodynamic performance. The test shall be in accordance with 6.3.3.1
of Part 2 as modified by this specification.
Page 36 of 38
Part 4 – Expander-Compressors
4.4 Basic Design
4.4.2 (Modification) The compressor shall be capable of continuous operation at

any point within the entire operating window range enclosed by the
compressor curves in the Vendor’s proposal. The head-capacity
characteristic curve shall rise continuously from maximum capacity point
to surge point for the range from minimum speed to maximum continuous
speed without the use of any restriction orifices. The Vendor shall
guarantee that, at normal speed, the head at the surge point will be at least
105% of the head at the normal operating point on the curve.
The Vendor shall also guarantee that the turndown capacity (without the use
of a bypass) shall be no more than 70% of the capacity at normal operating
point. The Vendor shall also indicate if any of the other operating points
specified on the data sheets will be within 10% from surge capacity.
The head-capacity curve at 100% speed shall be guaranteed to extend to at
least 110% of the capacity at the Compressor Rated Point.
4.5 Materials
Turbo-expander and compressor impeller materials shall be limited to

Anodized Aluminum, Titanium, or Stainless Steel alloys.
4.9.1 General
4.9.1.1 (Exception) Unless otherwise specified, magnetic bearings meeting the

requirements of Part 1 - Annex E shall be provided. The design shall be
such that the magnetic bearing stationary components can be removed and
replaced as a single unit (cartridge design).
5.5.5 Permanent Strainer
5.5.5.1 A permanent strainer for installation in a removable spool shall be

provided per the requirements of this paragraph.
Page 37 of 38
6.3 Testing
6.3.5.1 Performance Test
The expander and the compressor shall be performance tested in

accordance with paragraphs 6.3.5.1.1 through 6.3.5.1.4 of this section.
Revision Summary
30 April 2013 Revised the “Next Planned Update.” Reaffirmed the content of the document, and reissued
with minor revision to improve equipment efficiency, reliability, and value.
23 August 2017 Major revision, removed 01-SAMSS-017 reference, and updated to API STD 617, 8th Edition.
Page 38 of 38

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Materials System Specification

31-SAMSS-001 23 August 2017

Previous Issue: 17 March 2013 Next Planned Update: 23 August 2020

©Saudi Aramco 2017. All rights reserved.

Part 1 – General Requirements

(Modification) This specification, together with the Data Sheet (SA-2812)

1.1.2 Experience Requirements

Compressor Systems shall be supplied by Vendors qualified by experience

The Vendor must demonstrate his experience on an individual component

The critical areas relative to equivalent service conditions which must be

3) Volumetric capacity and volume ratio

The critical areas relative to component design which must be

1.3 Conflicting Requirements

(Exception) Direct all requests to deviate from this specification in writing

2.1.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

17-SAMSS-502 Form-Wound Induction Motors 500 HP and

Saudi Aramco Inspection Requirements Form

Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings

Saudi Aramco Forms and Data Sheets

2.1.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American National Standards Institute

American Petroleum Institute

American Society for Testing and Materials

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

National Association of Corrosion Engineers/International Standardization

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

4.1 Dimensions and Units

(Modification) Any drawing or data related to equipment supplied to this

4.4 Basic Design

4.4.1.1.4 (Modification) The sectional overload condition shall be as specified in the

4.4.1.9 Unless otherwise specified, the equipment will be installed outdoors in a

Additionally, equipment which is specified to be installed offshore or near

4.4.1.10 (Modification) Equipment sound pressure maximum levels for integrated

4.5.1.1 (Modification) The compressor components materials of construction shall

4.5.1.4 Compressor impellers shall be ultrasonically and magnetic particle

The acceptance criteria to be used are:

4.5.1.6 (Modification) This paragraph and the NACE MR0175/ISO 15156-3

Shafts of between bearing machines may exceed the limits of material

4.5.3.1 Forgings for rotor components shall be ultrasonically examined after

For straight beam testing

For angle beam testing

4.5.3.2 (Exception) Refer to Section 4.6.2.

4.6.1 Pressure-containing Casings

4.6.2 Casing Repairs and Inspections

4.6.2.2 (Modification) Weld repairs to impellers or shafts after final machining

Major repair: Any of the repairs for the components listed:

4.6.3 Material Inspection of Pressure-containing Parts

4.6.3.2 Fabricated casings shall be nondestructively examined in accordance with

4.6.4 Pressure Casing Connections

4.6.4.2 Main Process Connections

4.6.4.2.7 (Exception) Steel flanges shall be raised-face.

4.6.7 Guide Vanes, Stators, and Stationary Internals

All internal compressor labyrinth seals shall be either of High Temperature

4.7 Rotating Elements

4.7.6 (Exception) Thrust collars (discs) shall be replaceable. Hydraulically

4.7.10.8 Metal plating of impeller bores is not acceptable.

All reports on Lateral Analysis (including Stability Analysis) and Torsional

4.8.2 Lateral Analysis