Three case studies from the UKCS gas compressors: Combining rotor dynamic and process data as an aid to diagnosis

Abstract

Investigation of rotor dynamic defects is often instigated following machinery protection panel trips due to high vibration. Initial investigations often identify the location of the problem and the rotor dynamic characteristics causing the problem. However, underlying causes may be better appreciated by examination of process or auxiliary data. Combining this data into the rotor dynamic interpretation can lead to faster and more accurate diagnosis of machinery defects. Three cases studies are presented from export compressors operating on UKCS installations process and rotor dynamic data was combined to determine the cause of machine trip and to recommend maintenance intervention actions. In all these cases, additional process data was logged from the platform instrumentation or control systems along with proximity probe displacement, allowing diagnosis of the machine condition. The importance of collecting and analyzing process and auxiliary data provides invaluable assistance in recognizing defects, minimizing maintenance intervention time and maintaining reliability of production critical machinery.