Authors: M.L. Khazin, S.A. Volegov, O.V. Sokerina

Title of the article: Reliability of the reciprocating compressor

Year: 2025, Issue: 6, Pages: 58-65

Branch of knowledge: 2.8.8. Geotechnology, Mining machines (engineering)

Index UDK: 621.512

DOI: 10.26730/1816-4528-2025-6-58-65

Abstract: The article discusses the problem of reliability of compressor equipment, which is a key source of compressed air for various industrial processes. Special attention is paid to the valves of reciprocating compressors, as their malfunctions lead to significant production downtime. Studies show that up to 60% of all reciprocating compressor failures are related to valve assembly problems, with repair costs accounting for about 50% of total maintenance costs. The authors analyze the existing valve designs, in particular, single-flow valves (PIK), which, despite the use of high-strength steels, have a limited service life (about 2000 hours). The main causes of failure of such valves are fatigue failure and repeated impacts on the seat. As a solution to the problem, the development of new designs of valves of the CGI type, created at the Ural State Mining University, is presented. The main difference of the new design is the absence of cantilever fastening of plates and springs to the valve seat. This significantly increased the service life to 15,000-20,000 hours, which is 6 times higher than the PEAK valves. An important advantage of the new valves is the possibility of using domestic spring-spring steels instead of expensive imported analogues. In addition, the design of the CGI valves provides a 10% increase in productivity and a 13-15% reduction in energy consumption. The probability of trouble-free operation of such valves by the end of the warranty period reaches 0.84. The simplicity of the design of the new valves also greatly facilitates their maintenance – the time for disassembly, cleaning and assembly is reduced by 4-5 times compared to PEAK valves. The developments are especially relevant in modern conditions for import substitution in the compressor industry.

Key words: reciprocating compressor valve plate reliability bending stresses shock loads material selection

Receiving date: 31.10.2025

Approval date: 14.11.2025

Publication date: 18.12.2025

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