Background:
During an asset assessment survey of a Pump Set we detected an anomaly in the vibration data.
This is a ‘Brook Crompton Parkinson’ motor D112 Frame, 2865 RPM, 50Hz 3 Phase, 415V 4.9A with and integral ‘APE-Lee Howl Limited’ pump end.
Image 1 is of the pump set, this is a circulation pump for a water system.
Image 1:
Analysis:
Using experience, the human sense and the vibration data the conclusion was that there is a flow related issue.
Vibration Data:
Figure 1 is the Autocorrelation of the pump end PeakVue data in a circular plot.
Fig 1:
This data shows the abnormal ‘wobble’ operation of the pump and that for each revolution there are three restrictions in the motion.
Inspection:
On visual inspection of the pump system it was found that the pump supply valve was closed. This was opened and water was then allowed thought the pump.
Follow up Vibration:
Figure 2 is the same PeakVue data as before but now with the pump system in its correct operational state.
This data now shows the smooth circular motion of the pump.
Summary:
This case study brings a few things to mind
- The most important part of any program is the person performing the data collection and analysis
- When all else fails, leave the air conditioning, and go examine the operating equipment. Go look, touch, feel, smell and listen to the machinery
A profitable plant is reliable, safe and a cost-effectively maintained plant