5 signs it’s time to upgrade your compressor wash skid

A gas turbine compressor wash skid is a self-contained unit which delivers the correct water and detergent to the compressor during washing. It effortlessly optimises cleaning and efficiency during both online and offline washes.

Once installed, many wash skids remain in service for decades and, while they still technically operate, out-of-date components, inconsistent performance and increasing maintenance has a significant, negative impact on compressor cleaning effectiveness.

The knock-on effect is you may think you’re carrying out thorough cleans, but in reality, standards are slipping, costs are rising, and reliability is compromised. 

But, how do you know when it’s time to upgrade your compressor wash skid? Let’s find out…

What is a compressor wash skid?

Contained within a frame, a wash skid has all the components needed to accurately mix, heat, measure and inject wash fluid into the gas turbine’s compressor during an online or offline wash. It includes:

• Demineralised water tank
• Wash the chemical tank
• Pumps
• Flow meters
• Pressure regulators
• Heaters – to ensure cleaning solution is at optimum temperature to avoid thermal shock
• Filters
• Control panel
• Hoses and injection manifolds which connect to the compressor’s wash nozzles

Wash skids are often overlooked in the big picture of gas turbine maintenance, but as they age, performance deteriorates, and reliability issues are gradually accepted as normal. They are the first stage of gas turbine compressor care, so it’s worth reviewing their operation to ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment. 

The 5 signs it’s time to upgrade your compressor wash skid

Sign 1: Obsolete components

• Spare parts become increasingly difficult to source
• Older pumps and controls are no longer supported
• Increased risk of downtime

If you’re struggling to maintain your wash skid with the correct parts and support, it’s time to consider an upgrade. 

Sign 2: Inconsistent flow and pressure

Pay attention to the flow and pressure during cleans:

• Incorrect flow and pressure can reduce cleaning effectiveness
• Unreliable delivery can lead to inconsistent cleaning results
• Repeatability is critical for effective compressor washing

Sign 3: Labour-intensive operation

Wash skids are designed to minimise operator input while increasing accuracy and efficiency. The following examples indicate your wash skid is in need of upgrading:

• Excessive manual intervention
• Longer wash procedures
• Increased operator workload

Sign 4: Limited automation

The beauty of a wash skid is that processes such as accurately diluting cleaning chemicals are automated. If you face the following, you should look at alternative skids:

• Poor integration with modern control systems
• Reduced monitoring and control capabilities
• Less operational flexibility

Sign 5: Your operational requirements have changed

If you’ve had your wash skid for several years, it’s likely your cleaning regime has changed. Review your equipment to ensure it’s best for your current practices:

• New cleaning strategies
• New operational demands
• Existing systems may no longer be optimised for the application

What makes a modern wash skid different?

There’s a temptation to believe you can’t significantly improve on a system such as a wash skid. After all, their role is pretty straightforward: mix the cleaning solution and deliver it to the gas turbine compressor. However, you may be surprised at the improvements a modern skid can bring to your cleaning routines:

• Designed specifically for the customer’s gas turbine and operation
• Easy installation
• Simple operation
• Proven technology
• Long service life
• Ongoing technical support

Rochem FYREWASH® wash skids

At Rochem FYREWASH®, we believe that gas turbine compressor wash skids should support your chosen cleaning programme, not limit it.

Just as you review plant performance, it’s essential to look at all the contributing factors, down to cleaning schedule, detergents, wash nozzles and wash skids. 

Rochem FYREWASH® wash skids are individually designed specifically for each customer.

We’re approached to help when operators notice increasing maintenance demands, struggle to replace obsolete components, face inconsistent wash performance, and/or need better automation.

We’re always happy to discuss specific requirements and have supplied thousands of wash skids worldwide, along with dedicated, ongoing support. 

• Sites include power generation, oil and gas, offshore, and industrial applications
• We expect our wash skids to have a service life of 20 to 25 years
• Choose a static or mobile form
• Use a single setup for multiple turbines if required

Get in touch

We’ve specialised in gas turbine compressor cleaning for over 40 years and our products are chosen around the globe for their industry-leading, cost-effective results.

If you suspect your wash skid could be due a replacement, we’ll be happy to talk about your options and help arrange an upgrade. 

Read more about our wash skids here, and please get in touch with any questions.