EFRC 2025 to focus on digitalization

The European Forum for Reciprocating Compressors (EFRC) will hold its 14th biennial conference in Hamburg, Germany, from Oct. 14–16,. This year’s event will be hosted at the NORD EVENT Panoramadeck, a venue overlooking the city’s harbor, and will bring together engineers, scientists, manufacturers and operators from across the reciprocating compressor industry.

Organizers expect the 2025 edition to showcase a mix of technical innovation and operational best practices, with a strong emphasis on digital tools. The central theme of the conference is “Digitalization in the Design and Operation of Reciprocating Compressors.” Discussions will examine how digital technologies—from artificial intelligence and condition monitoring to design software—are reshaping equipment design, boosting reliability, and enabling new efficiencies.

As in previous years, the EFRC conference will feature plenary and parallel sessions on a wide range of technical topics. Scheduled tracks include hydrogen compression, sealing and emissions, monitoring and reliability, pulsation and vibration, and the role of digitalization and AI in performance optimization. Presenters will include OEMs, component suppliers, service providers, researchers and end users.

EFRC also encourages contributions that highlight collaborative research, precompetitive innovation, and results from EFRC-led projects. These sessions aim to foster discussion around shared challenges and new solutions for the reciprocating compressor market.

A key feature of the 2025 event will be a dedicated training session on “Standards and Safety,” taking place the morning of Oct. 15. The training will be divided into two parts. The first segment will cover key standards, including updates to API 11P for high-speed compressors, ISO 17934 on condition monitoring, and Energy Institute guidance on flow-induced vibration. The second portion will address safety concerns specific to hydrogen compressor systems, with input from operators, safety consultants and equipment manufacturers.

The conference is designed for both experienced professionals and early-career engineers looking to deepen their knowledge and expand their network within the global reciprocating compressor community.

Registration is now open. Additional details and agenda updates are available through the EFRC’s official platform. Inquiries can be directed to [email protected].