Reference profile
- Designation
- API 617
- Title
- Axial and Centrifugal Compressors and Expander-Compressors
- Issuing body
- API
- Current edition
- 2022 — verify against issuer
- Status
- Library record: published; official standard status [verify].
- Category
- Rotating Equipment
Overview
API 617 covers axial and centrifugal compressors and expander-compressors for the petroleum, petrochemical, and gas industries. It defines aerodynamic and mechanical design, rotordynamic (lateral and torsional) analysis, dry gas seal and lube/seal oil systems, bearing design, vibration acceptance, and test requirements including mechanical run and, where specified, full-load string tests. It is the reference for critical, unspared machinery trains.
Scope & Applicability
Covers
- Aerodynamic & mechanical design
- Rotordynamics
- Dry gas seals
- Bearings
- Vibration limits
- Testing
Does NOT cover (exclusions)
- Exclusions are not documented in this library record. Confirm the official publication, neighbouring codes, the adopted edition, and jurisdictional boundaries before application.
Key Requirements
Lifecycle requirements
- Compressor specification
- Rotordynamic review
- String / mechanical run test
Technical Details
The primary standard for centrifugal and axial compressors and expander-compressors in critical process service.
Components: Impeller, Rotor, Dry gas seal, Journal bearing, Thrust bearing, Diaphragm.
Engineering Notes
- Rotordynamics, dry gas seal systems, and anti-surge control are central to reliable operation.
Related Standards
- API 614
Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.
- API 670
Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.
- API 671
Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.
- ISO 10439
Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.
- ISO 20816
Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.
Source, Edition & Status
- Publisher
- API
- Edition Year
- 2022
- Industries
- Petrochemical, Refinery, Oil & Gas
- Content Status
- published
- Last Reviewed
- 2026-07-01
- Last Updated
- 2026-07-01
- Verified By
- Engineering Reviewer
- Official Link
- N/A
This paraphrased summary is a discovery aid. Do not reproduce or substitute it for the copyrighted official publication or jurisdictional requirements.