Maintaining seal oil systems has traditionally been one of the biggest problems faced by operators of centrifugal compression equipment. This problem is compounded when highly toxic gases are being compressed. This paper describes the retrofit of a simple, effective, mechanical dry seal system which eliminated one sour gas operator's problems. The retrofit resulted in a safe, easy-to-operate system, which vents no toxic gases into the environment. The retrofit was completed on a gas gathering

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... mpressor operating with hydrogen sulphide at a discharge pressure of 10,000 kPa (1500 psig), a discharge temperature of 150° C (300° F) and an operating speed of 23 500 rpm. This paper describes the operating problems encountered with the traditional seal oil system, the successful resolution of the problems with the mechanical dry seal system and operational data of the successful retrofit.