API 11P covers packaged reciprocating compressors for oil and gas production service. While less widely known than API 618, it directly affects how compressor packages for production applications are designed, tested, and documented.
Current Scope of API 11P
API 11P establishes minimum requirements for the design, manufacturing, and testing of packaged reciprocating gas compressors intended for oil and gas production service. It covers the compressor frame, cylinders, driver, skid, and all package auxiliary systems.
The standard references API 618 for pulsation and vibration analysis requirements, making API 618 compliance a contractual requirement for packages specified under API 11P.
The 3rd Edition Update
API 11P is currently being revised to the 3rd Edition. Tech Transfer’s Brian Remy, P.E. serves on the API 11P 3rd Edition committee and has direct involvement in the revision process.
The 3rd Edition is expected to update requirements for skid design, foundation interface, and documentation, as well as clarify the relationship between API 11P and API 618 5th Edition requirements. It will also address high-speed separable compressor packages more explicitly than previous editions.
Implications for Package Specifications
Operators and packagers who write specifications referencing API 11P should monitor the 3rd Edition publication timeline. Project specifications written today that reference API 11P 2nd Edition should consider whether they should be updated when the 3rd Edition is published, particularly for long-lead projects that will not be delivered until after publication.
