A Case Study on Failures of Low Speed Medium Voltage Induction Motors Driving Reciprocating Compressors

This is a case study documenting a short experience with two large induction motors driving large reciprocating compressors in a refinery. The first motor is a 6.6kV 920kW and the second motor is an 11kV 3400kW. There are several considerations that need to be considered to ensure successful application of induction motors to reciprocating compressors. In this experience, several catastrophic failures have occurred, and we conclude that the essential considerations are not applied during driver selections.