API enhances oil, gas industry safety with new edition of recommended practices for rotating equipment components
(WO) – The American Petroleum Institute announced the publication of the 2nd edition of Recommended Practice (RP) 687, Special-Purpose Rotating Equipment Repairs. This updated edition establishes comprehensive guidance for the inspection and repair of special purpose rotating equipment components, as well as guidance for the selection of a repair shop. The overarching purpose of the new edition is to enhance safety and improve operations across the natural gas and oil industry.
The 2nd edition of RP 687 introduces significant changes from its predecessor, addressing both the repair of rotors as well as stationary components in special purpose equipment, the later of which is particularly emphasized in this version. It also addresses technologies found in new equipment, provides updated testing techniques, and offers guidance for equipment owners in selecting a repair shop, as well as implementing improved industry practices.
The extended scope to stationary components signifies a major step forward in consolidating industry benchmarks for equipment repair. While many API standards focus primarily on equipment design and installation, the need for this new edition of RP 687 became apparent due to the importance of equipment repairs in the industry. Major repairs on this type of equipment can extend its life for decades while delivering significant performance improvements, including increasing efficiency, minimizing disruptions and reducing emissions. Recognizing the industry pursuit of equipment repairs and these potential benefits, the 2nd edition of RP 687 provides guidance to address the broad range of equipment repair challenges, from performance inefficiencies to reliability concerns.
The utility of this 2nd edition of RP 687 is increased when considered alongside RP 697, Pump Repair, which acts as a complementary resource, as it addresses the inspection and repair of industry pumps. The 2nd edition of RP 687 along with the recently published RP 697 provide the industry with a broad range of repair techniques and recommendations for equipment, addressing everything from small pumps to large turbomachinery.
