ISO 5389:2005

Overview - ISO 5389:2005 (Turbocompressors - Performance test code)

ISO 5389:2005 is the international performance test code for turbocompressors. It defines standardized provisions for the preparation, execution, evaluation and assessment of performance and acceptance tests for continuous‑flow turbocompressors (machines using impellers and stators to convey and compress gas). The standard excludes fans, high‑vacuum pumps and jet‑type compressors with moving drive components. ISO 5389:2005 is widely used to verify contractual guarantees and to demonstrate that delivered machines meet agreed performance conditions.

Key Topics and Technical Requirements

• Scope and definitions: clear definitions of turbocompressor types, stages, sections and test terminology.
• Guarantees and preconditions: contractual preconditions (inlet/discharge conditions, gas properties, interstage cooling, driver conditions, speed) and how guarantees are specified and compared.
• Measuring methods and equipment: standardized measurement of pressures, temperatures, gas density and composition, flow (volume and mass), rotational speed and power.
• Performance test procedure: preparation, execution and evaluation of tests, including conversion of measured results to guarantee conditions.
• Measuring uncertainty: procedures to determine and report measurement uncertainty, including the added “difference method” to cover complex test situations (multi‑casing compressors, different driving machines).
• Conversion and correction methods: methods for converting test results to guarantee points, three classes of conversion (including tests beyond flow similarity) and a Reynolds‑number correction for centrifugal compressor performance.
• Annexes and reporting: normative and informative annexes (flow diagrams, correction methods, example test reports, glossary) and required content for test reports.

Applications - Who Uses ISO 5389:2005

• Compressor manufacturers and OEMs - for acceptance testing and contractual verification.
• Test laboratories and inspection bodies - to perform repeatable, auditable performance tests.
• End users and plant operators - during commissioning, performance audits and troubleshooting.
• Specifiers and procurement teams - to define test acceptance criteria in supply contracts.
• R&D and design engineers - for validation of aerodynamic performance and for applying Reynolds‑number corrections and similarity scaling.

Related Standards

• Normative reference: ISO 5167‑1 (flow measurement with differential pressure devices).
• Informational influences: ASME PTC 10 and VDI 2045 (noted in the ISO foreword).

Using ISO 5389:2005 helps ensure consistent, auditable performance testing of turbocompressors, enabling reliable acceptance testing, contractual compliance and improved performance benchmarking.