Are you familiar with utilizing non-grouted equipment base frames in hydrocarbon industry projects, particularly in pumps and motors? Share your experience and insights on using these skids without encountering vibration or resonance problems. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!
Utilizing skids can help decrease system rigidity, but it also increases the risk of resonance issues caused by the natural frequency matching the harmonic frequency of speed. To prevent this, opting for stiffer skids is advised to elevate the natural frequency into a higher frequency range. This adjustment will help mitigate resonance problems and improve overall system performance.
A few years back, we focused on boosting our oil refinery's production capacity by installing new pumps with un-grouted base frames. It appears that only the skid's feet are secured to the plinth, leaving the rest of the base frame empty. Despite minimal issues with vibrations, the lightweight construction of some pumps caused alignment challenges. The pedestals tend to flex significantly as the pump heats up and the pipework expands, even with proper layout and support measures in place. Investing in high-quality skids is crucial to avoid long-term costs and issues, especially when using API pumps.
I always opt for machined cast iron skids with thorough grouting post pipe and drive alignment. A savvy Maintenance Manager knows the value of investing an extra 5-10% in well-designed, carefully selected, and expertly installed equipment. After all, it's not likely to be his budget he's regretting.
A few years back, a chemical plant I worked at decided to purchase skids equipped with all thread for support. The intention was to easily hang them onto the piping, secure the all thread down until the bottom pads made contact with the floor, and voila, job done. Despite our skepticism in the Project Management department, the plant persisted in using them, even amidst leaks at the pump flange. These skids were marketed as a quick and easy solution, perfect for those seeking simplicity in their operations.
Absolutely, I've been a part of many projects in the hydrocarbon industry where we've used non-grouted equipment base frames, especially with pumps and motors. The key to avoiding vibration or resonance problems is a thorough dynamic analysis during the design phase. It's essential to check for potential resonant frequencies and ensure that operation does not coincide with these. Additionally, proper alignment and rigidity of the base and the equipment play a huge role in avoiding such issues. One can also consider using dampeners or absorbers. It's quite a nuanced process but when carefully and correctly done, the setup works quite efficiently.
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Answer: Answer: Non-grouted equipment base frames offer advantages such as easier installation, reduced maintenance, and the ability to adjust for thermal expansion without cracking.
Answer: Answer: To prevent vibration and resonance problems, proper design considerations such as structural stiffness, foundation design, and dynamic analysis should be taken into account during the engineering phase.
Answer: Answer: Design considerations include selecting appropriate materials, ensuring proper anchoring, optimizing structural stiffness, and conducting thorough dynamic analysis to ensure the skids can withstand operational loads without experiencing vibration issues.
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