Gas Flow Measurement
Sentrix™ meters provide highly accurate, easy-to-use thermal mass flow measurement, the only technology capable of measuring extremely low leakage from packing cases.
Case Study
Solid Ring Technology Yields Solid Results
In early 2011, a major Southwest energy company embarked on a program to drastically cut fugitive emissions, using reciprocating compressors at three of their stations as test cases. After studying available packing options, the company identified Cook Compression’s patented low-emissions rod rings, also referred to as solid ring technology, as the most promising solution.
With Cook Compression low-emissions rod rings, each ring seals sequentially, reducing frictional heat loading on the piston rod. This improves sealing effectiveness and reduces wear over extended run times.
Zero Vent Leakage
Packing cases with Cook Compression low-emission rod rings were installed on two Ariel JGT-4 compressors in gas transmission service. Early results were encouraging. After 1,000 hours of operation, measurements confirmed zero vent leakage. Another measurement after 3,000 hours produced the same result.
The energy company then expanded use of the technology at three of its compressor stations and continued monitoring long-term performance.
Long-Term Low-Emissions Performance
After using the low-emissions rod ring technology for more than two and a half years, the energy company authorized a broad assessment of performance.
Vent flow measurements were taken at three compressor stations, all of which use Ariel JGT-4 compressors in transmission service. Of the 18 units measured (approximately 72 throws), only six throws recorded leakage above 1.0 scfm. Many were still holding at or close to zero.
The throws with the highest number of hours (18,500) were pulled and sent back to the compressor manufacturer for evaluation. These throws were reported to be holding at zero leakage when removed.
The company has since converted their entire fleet at the site (22 four-throw units) to Cook low-emissions rod rings, along with units at several other sites in the area.
In achieving zero or extremely low leakage, Cook Compression low-emissions rod ring technology not only enables the energy company to take a proactive approach to emissions compliance – it also saves them money through greater machine uptime, increased throughput, reduced labor and fewer maintenance dollars expended to maintain packing.
Related Case Studies
Solid Ring Technology Doubles Packing Life in Application with Dirty Gas
With packing case sealing components wearing out in less than four months, a petrochemical plant turned to Cook Compression for a longer-lasting packing solution for its non-lubricated compressor. Packing case upgrades included advanced ring designs and advanced materials.
Low-Emissions Rod Rings Control Emissions, Last Longer
A Gulf Coast energy company taking the initiative to control gas leakage from reciprocating compressor packing cases explored options to replace conventional ring sets with low-leak packing. After installing Cook’s low-emissions rod packing, vent leakage was reduced to near zero scfm. The same results were seen after 8,000 hours of operation.
Related Products & Services
Low-Emissions Rod Rings
The patented, gapless design of Cook Compression low-emissions packing eliminates leak paths, sealing more effectively and reducing fugitive emissions below measurable limits.
TruTech® Engineered Polymers
Cook Compression specializes in PTFE, UHMWPE, PEEK, PPS and polyimide materials. In-house precision blending capabilities enable Cook to enhance specific material properties.
