A compressor failure in a petrochemical plant, gas gathering operation, or industrial facility isn't just an inconvenience — it's a production stoppage with a clock running. Kelsey Machine Services has been rebuilding industrial compressors of all types for over 40 years, with the in-house machining capability and experienced technicians to restore your unit to OEM performance. Every rebuild is backed by a written 24-month warranty, and our 24/7 emergency service is answered every day of the year.
We serve industrial facilities, oil & gas operations, petrochemical plants, and manufacturing facilities across all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. Our structured repair process gives you full transparency: written failure analysis, itemized quote before work begins, and complete documentation on delivery.
Types of Equipment We Repair
Centrifugal Compressors
High-flow, continuous-duty compressors used in petrochemical, refining, and large industrial processes. KMS rebuilds impellers, diffusers, bearings, seals, and casings.
Reciprocating Compressors
The workhorses of the oil & gas and industrial world. KMS repairs cylinders, pistons, rods, valves, crossheads, and crankshafts.
Rotary Screw Compressors
Oil-flooded and oil-free screw compressors common in plant air and process gas applications. KMS repairs rotor profiles, timing gears, bearings, seals, and housings.
Rotary Vane Compressors
Used in vacuum and low-pressure applications. Vane wear is the primary failure mode — we replace vanes, restore housing bores, and rebuild bearing assemblies.
Scroll Compressors
Used in HVAC, refrigeration, and low-pressure process applications. Scroll set wear and contamination are the primary issues.
Diaphragm Compressors
Used in high-purity, high-pressure applications where gas contamination is not acceptable. KMS repairs diaphragm compressors for chemical and pharmaceutical applications.
Common Failure Modes We See
Bearing Failure
The most common compressor failure mode across all types. Contamination, overloading, and improper lubrication are the leading causes.
Seal & Packing Failure
Gas leakage from worn seals and packing is both a safety issue and an efficiency killer. We replace all seal types.
Valve Failure (Reciprocating)
Compressor valves are high-cycle components that wear and fail. Broken valve plates, worn seats, and spring failure are common.
Rotor Damage & Imbalance
Centrifugal and screw compressor rotors are subject to erosion, corrosion, and fouling. Imbalance destroys bearings.
Oil Contamination
Oil carryover into the process stream indicates seal failure and requires immediate attention. We identify the source and repair it.
Cylinder & Rod Wear
Reciprocating compressor cylinders and piston rods wear over time. We measure, assess, and restore or replace as needed.
Our Repair Process
- 01
Disassembly & Inspection
Complete teardown with documented as-found dimensions and condition.
- 02
Failure Analysis
Written root cause analysis — every repair includes this.
- 03
Precision Machining
Cylinder honing, shaft repair, and housing restoration in-house.
- 04
Component Replacement
Bearings, seals, valves, packing replaced with quality components.
- 05
Reassembly & Test
Reassembled to OEM specifications. Pressure-tested and documented.
- 06
Warranty & Delivery
24-month written warranty. Coordinated return shipping.