The American Petroleum Institute (API) is the largest professional association representing the American oil and gas industry.
It was founded in 1919 to promote industrial standards, safety, and innovation.
API represents over 600 companies involved in energy production, refining, and distribution, and develops widely used technical standards for equipment and operations.
API conducts research to improve efficiency, safety, and environmental performance, and offers training and certification programs for industry professionals.
The institute also promotes transparency and public understanding of energy issues.
The American Petroleum Institute has released a standard (API 686) named:
“Recommended Practice for Machinery Installation and Installation Design”.
This document provides recommendations for the correct installation of rotating and reciprocating machinery in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries.
It primarily covers pumps, compressors, turbines, motors, and generators.
This standard addresses key topics such as foundations, grouting, shaft alignment, mounting, piping, and installation tolerances.
It aims to reduce premature failures, excessive vibrations, and alignment issues.
This document is intended for engineers, assembly supervisors, installers, and inspectors and emphasizes good field practices, not just design.
It is widely used during construction, commissioning, and major maintenance phases and helps improve equipment reliability, lifespan, and safety.
Although called a “Recommended Practice,” it is often contractually required.
In this standard, Chapter 5 is specifically dedicated to grouting.
Chapter 5 is dedicated to foundations and grouting (Foundations and Grouting). It is one of the most critical chapters of the standard, as it directly impacts machine reliability.
Its objective: To ensure a rigid, stable, and durable base for machinery to limit:
Key topics covered
Key Message of Chapter 5
A poor foundation can never be compensated by good alignment.
If you require further information, follow-up, assistance with preparation, or anything else related to Grouting and Chapter 5 of API Standard 686, please do not hesitate to contact us.
