Reciprocating compressors cooling valve

The reciprocating compressor was one of three identical units mounted side-by-side under a covered shed in an open-air chemical plant. These compressors were capable of compressing about 50 tons per day of acidic gases from 25 psig to 175 psig. The compressor operated at 300 RPM and was driven by a 150-horsepower electrical motor. This 30-year-old compressor was initially designed with a well water cooling flow on the jacket. Initially a 3/4-inch valve supplied well water. The water flowed out of the compressor jacket and into a funnel, so the operator had a visual indication of flow and no provisions to block the water. [3]... 

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