We have man turbo centrifugal process air compressor at ammonia plant. the compressor undergone surging last month and got ripped. During restarting attempt, high axial vibrations resulted in compressor trip twice. Can you please elaborate the probable causes of high axial vibration in this compressor after surging event?

 

Probably, you mean the high axial displacement (not axial vibration). If the axial movement of rotor (from one end to another end) is more than it specified by manufacture then most probably there is some problem with the trust bearings. It can be measured with a dial indicator. If the axial movement will be within the manufacture specification then the axial probe has to be checked and adjusted properly.