Reciprocating Compressor
A Reciprocating Compressor is a common machine used in the oil and gas industry to compress and move gas from one place to another. Think of it like a bicycle pump that continuously pushes gas - it uses a back-and-forth motion (like a car engine's pistons) to squeeze gas into a smaller space. These machines are critical in natural gas processing, gas transportation through pipelines, and various industrial processes. Companies often call them "recip compressors" or "piston compressors" for short. They're different from other types like rotary or centrifugal compressors because of their unique back-and-forth movement mechanism.
Examples in Resumes
Supervised maintenance of Reciprocating Compressor units at multiple gas processing facilities
Led team of technicians maintaining Recip Compressor systems in natural gas pipeline operations
Performed troubleshooting and repairs on Piston Compressor systems, improving efficiency by 25%
Typical job title: "Reciprocating Compressor Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Reciprocating Compressor Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a major compressor failure at a critical facility?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss emergency response procedures, troubleshooting steps, team coordination, and having backup plans to maintain operations. They should mention safety protocols and communication with management.
Q: Describe your experience with implementing preventive maintenance programs.
Expected Answer: Should explain how they plan maintenance schedules, track equipment performance, train junior staff, and use maintenance management systems to prevent breakdowns and extend equipment life.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are common issues you look for during routine compressor inspection?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking for unusual noises, vibrations, proper oil levels, valve operation, and monitoring key measurements like pressure and temperature.
Q: How do you ensure safe operation when working with gas compressors?
Expected Answer: Should discuss safety procedures, proper lockout/tagout processes, gas detection equipment, and following company safety policies and industry standards.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic parts of a reciprocating compressor?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main components like pistons, cylinders, valves, and basic understanding of how they work together to compress gas.
Q: What basic maintenance tasks are performed on compressors?
Expected Answer: Should describe routine tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, basic inspections, and recording operational data in maintenance logs.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic maintenance procedures
- Safety protocols
- Reading gauges and instruments
- Recording maintenance data
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting common problems
- Performing repairs
- Understanding gas compression principles
- Using maintenance management systems
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex problem diagnosis
- Team supervision
- Implementation of maintenance programs
- Emergency response management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures in gas environments
- Lack of mechanical aptitude or hands-on experience
- Unable to read basic technical drawings or manuals
- No experience with maintenance documentation
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