The results may be reduced costs and increased availability to clients through a more accurate method of determining maintenance priorities. Downtime can be shortened and is more predictable.

RECON provides additional benefits as well. As potential problems are identified in clients’ equipment, service can be scheduled and replacement parts ordered in advance.

RECON REMT (rotating equipment monitoring tool) is part of the array of the company's condition monitoring tools. Clients can view their equipment operation information and perform in-depth vibration analysis from anywhere in the world, and D-R can access the necessary data from remote locations, as specified by the client (a system has been installed on an oil platform in the North Atlantic). In addition to RECON REMT, RECON CPM, (compressor performance module) provides clients with real-time performance of their centrifugal compressors. To date, 10 packages have been sold.

Another tool within the RECON suite of condition monitoring tools, RECON Recip, offers a real time,

on-line equipment health and performance assessment for reciprocating compressors and engines. RECON EMS (equipment monitoring services) provides remote, expert analysis and diagnostics through our monitoring center based in Houston, with further access if needed, to more than 2,000 engineers within D-R. Eventually, all RECON Remote data will be fed from installations around the world to Dresser-Rand's new state-of-the-art monitoring center in Houston.

"The ability to provide a comprehensive diagnostic system such as RECON to detect and diagnose developing mechanical- and performance-related anomalies on vital plant assets adds value to offerings for all of our clients," Gunn said.

Availability PLUS® is a registered trademark of the Dresser-Rand Company.