Motors
Implement proactive asset management techniques
The drop in crude oil prices since 2014 has impacted both upstream producers and downstream players. Upstream producers—those responsible for exploration, drilling and production—were the first to feel the effects. While refining margins benefitted from the drop in crude oil pricing, they began to suffer when record surpluses of gasoline and diesel flooded the market a year later.
Buyer beware: Are diamond-coated seal faces the solution to dry running?
A scientific study was undertaken to evaluate the performance, under dry running conditions, of two types of diamond coatings applied to silicon carbide faces of mechanical seals.
Build a diesel fuel performance additive for optimum winter operability, the right way—Part 2
Part 1 in this series, “Build a diesel fuel performance additive, the right way,” (Hydrocarbon Processing, October) detailed the required chemical additives and test methods for achieving ideal engine performance and fuel economy.
HP New Developments
NEO Monitors’ mid-infrared (IR) sensors will help global industries better control emissions of nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides.
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 85: Learnings on hydraulically fitted hubs
Hubs connect one piece of machinery to another, usually with some flexible coupling between them. Installers have only limited time to work with the hot hub. When incorrectly positioned, it may have to be removed, which has the potential of damaging the shaft end.
Consider new labyrinth seals to optimize compressor operations
Degradation of labyrinth seals in centrifugal impellers can have a significant impact on not only compressor power consumption but also on plant production rate. Upgrading to rub-tolerant seals can be..
Maximize energy recovery with small steam turbines
Using smaller turbines (50 kW to 300 kW) can aid system efficiency and help conserve energy. We investigate examples in which the application of smaller steam turbines provided return on investment within two years.
Lubrication update for rotating equipment
API-610 is the most widely used pump standard in the petrochemical and refining industries. It includes experience-based recommendations for lubricant applications and one of those recommendations rel..
Use new methods to optimize energy efficiency of hydrogen compressors
Hydrogen (H2) is a key to efficient operation of refinery desulfurization units (DSUs). Process H2, both pure and recycled from DSUs, must be compressed to pressures up to 85 kg/cm2. Centrifugal compr..
HP Reliability: Reassessing and updating electric motor bearing lubrication
Over the past 25 years, this column has often dealt with electric motor lubrication. As listed in the recommended reading list, this subject is often asked and, of course, there are updates to the rec..
- ITT to acquire SPX Flow for > $4.77 B, expanding leadership in highly engineered components and adjacent flow technologies 12/5
- MOL Group introduces eco-friendly Bag-in-Box packaging for lubricants 12/5
- Russia and India sign deal to build urea plant in Russia 12/5
- U.S. liquid fuels groups announce progress on E15, small refinery exemption reform 12/5
- Chinese refiners buy oil from storage, raise output with fresh import quota 12/5
- U.S. okays transactions with Lukoil gas stations outside Russia through late April 12/5

