APIRotating Equipment

API 618

Reciprocating Compressors for Petroleum, Chemical, and Gas Industry Services

US / International
Rotating Equipment

Reference profile

Designation
API 618
Title
Reciprocating Compressors for Petroleum, Chemical, and Gas Industry Services
Issuing body
API
Current edition
[verify]
Status
Library record: published; official standard status [verify].
Category
Rotating Equipment
1

Overview

Requirements for reciprocating compressors and their pulsation/vibration control in critical process service.

2

Scope & Applicability

Covers

  • Cylinder & running gear
  • Valves
  • Pulsation & acoustic study
  • Distance piece
  • 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.
3

Key Requirements

Lifecycle requirements

  • Reciprocating compressor specification
  • Pulsation study (M2/M5)
  • Mechanical run test
4

Technical Details

Requirements for reciprocating compressors and their pulsation/vibration control in critical process service.

Components: Cylinder, Piston, Crosshead, Valve, Pulsation dampener, Distance piece.

Where to find it in the codeRefer to the official table of contents and the sections cited by the project specification; section numbering can vary by edition.
5

Engineering Notes

  • Pulsation and mechanical response (acoustic) studies are essential to protect piping, valves, and vessels.
6

Related Standards

  • API 617

    Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.

  • API 619

    Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.

  • API 674

    Companion or referenced standard; verify its exact relationship in the adopted edition.

7

Source, Edition & Status

Publisher
API
Edition Year
N/A
Industries
Refinery, Petrochemical, 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.