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Renew Magazine - Project Updates
PROOF THAT VIBRATION MONITORING MAKES SENSE
WHEN ENGINEERS ON A NORTH SEA platform reported that an 800kW Ex de certified induction motor was exhibiting high vibration levels Quartzelec’s Aberdeen service centre was approached to investigate and undertake any necessary repairs on an urgent basis before the issue led to a major machine failure.
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High vibrations in rotating electrical machines can indicate issues with operational performance which will impact machine availability so, with the 800KW production critical motor displaying increased vibration levels, Quartzelec advised that it was quickly removed from operation and sent to Aberdeen workshop for investigation. The motor was stripped and inspected to determine the repairs needed. All repairs were then completed within an agreed timeframe, and it was then immediately returned to the platform.
Commenting on the project, Paul Oliver, Quartzelec’s business unit manager in Aberdeen, said: “We had successfully repaired the sister machine on the North Sea platform two years earlier after catastrophic bearing failure. On that machine, the bearing failure also led to further damage and a full rotor and stator rewind was required. Whilst the first motor repair was costly to the customer in terms of financial outlay and the resulting lead times, following our recommendations, they incorporated ongoing vibration monitoring which helped them spot problems developing before the failure occurred. This resulted in them saving considerable time and money; whilst maintaining a safe working environment without impacting output.
“When budgets are tight, condition monitoring can sometimes be sacrificed, but this is a perfect case which proves that investing in the correct condition monitoring system makes perfect business sense,” concluded Paul.
