Carbon Ring Seal Failure in a High Pressure CO₂ Compressor

Abstract

During commissioning of a new 8-stage CO₂ pipeline compressor, higher than expected seal vent flows were detected from the carbon ring seals in the high pressure (HP) stages. The problem was severe enough that the machine could not meet design performance. This case study will cover the basic design of carbon ring seals, the history of the problem, the root cause analysis, conclusions and corrective action.