P17453: Dresser-Rand Poppet Valve Test Bench Brandon Chrysler, Alex Grassl, Ryan Muchard, Carvey Yung Goals Simulate pressure curves of the Dresser-Rand ESH-1 Compressor Reduce disassembly and reassembly time Gather Vibration Data Achievements Cycles at 1 Hz Can be disassembled and reassembled in 10 minutes Measures vibration of the poppet Valves during each cycle Introductions Names Overview: -Our project is in association with Dr. Kolodziej of RIT and Dresser Rand natural gas compressors. -These compressors operate using a reciprocating piston and spring loaded poppet valves which are responsible for allowing gas flow through the cylinder in only one direction. -Over time, these poppets and their respective springs can wear out and fail. -A theory currently being researched is the ability to characterize wear on the poppets during operation using vibration data. Challenge: -In order to do this, a large amount of controlled data with a variety of valve and spring combinations is necessary. -Where the actual compressor causes difficulties in removing and replacing the valves, our test bench allows for easy and fast rebuilding of the system with these different combinations of valves . Primary Objectives: -Our task was to recreate, as near as possible, the pressure cycle found within the compressor cylinder using only source air pressure from the RIT Machine Shop. -Using computer controlled solenoid valves, our system pressurizes and vents a cylindrical vessel and applies that pressure to the poppets in the same manner as the actual compressor. Results and Conclusion: -Using pressure transducers and accelerometers, our system is able to monitor the pressure cycle and vibration data from the poppet valves. -The system is now ready for laboratory use in characterizing this vibration data in relation to wear on these components which will eventually lead to the ability to diagnose compressors in the field with zero down time.