The API 688 standard (formally published as API STD 688) is the authoritative technical reference for Pulsation and Vibration Control for Positive Displacement Machinery Systems. It is published by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and is an essential resource for engineers working with reciprocating compressors and pumps in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. 🔍 Overview of API 688
They fitted temporary shims, increased seal flush pressure beyond manufacturer guidance, and ran the pump at reduced speed. For a while, 688 seemed content with the compromise. Output stayed nominal. But engineering always pays its dues: deferred maintenance compounds. The micropits deepened into hairline cracks, and the seal faces found new ways to leak under thermal cycles. api 688 pdf
Acoustic pulsation forces act on piping elbows and changes in area, generating mechanical vibration. API 688 requires a coupled analysis—meaning the mechanical natural frequencies of the piping system must be evaluated against the forcing frequencies from pulsation. The API 688 standard (formally published as API
API 688 is comprehensive, covering various types of PD machinery and their associated piping systems. The specific equipment addressed includes: Reciprocating Compressors (cross-referencing API 618). Rotary-type PD Compressors (cross-referencing API 619). Reciprocating PD Pumps (cross-referencing API 674). Controlled Volume PD Pumps (cross-referencing API 675). Rotary PD Pumps (cross-referencing API 676). Key Technical Objectives Petroleum Refining : API 688 provides guidelines for
Reciprocating Compressors (primary focus, cross-referenced with API 618). Rotary PD Compressors (Screw compressors, ref. API 619).
API 688 (officially API STD 688) is the definitive industry standard for pulsation and vibration control in positive displacement (PD) machinery. While older versions were labeled as Recommended Practice (RP), the current 2023 edition is a full Standard that centralizes technical requirements for compressors and pumps. ⚙️ Core Scope and Application
The latest version, API STD 688:2023, includes Errata 1 (published March 2024), which ensures the most up-to-date engineering practices are followed. Scope and Machinery Addressed