Severe vibration problem with GE compressors
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What country’s technology is behind GE compressors? The syngas compressor in our facility is from GE; during startup, it experiences severe shaft vibration and cannot operate properly. Please advise!
It’s the new Bilon technology acquired by GE, right?
The problem description is too vague, OP
GE compressors from the United States; it’s likely Italian Novilon technology. There are many reasons for strong vibrations. Please describe it clearly.
From Novi Biluno, Italy – which project are you referring to and when? Could you share that information?
Based on personal experience, the shaft vibration of centrifugal compressors can be analyzed from the following aspects: 1) If the compressor is driven by a motor, it is necessary to check whether the motor has not crossed the lower critical speed; in the case of variable-frequency drive, this frequency needs to be blocked. That possibility is not very high. 2) Examine what the logic for vibration monitoring is; in many designs, a single vibration signal can lead to shutdown ； There is also a loop that combines all the signals together, using an \"or\" logic to protect the unit; this \"or\" logic is intended to prevent damage to the cables carrying individual vibration signals or poor connections at the UCP end – it’s not easy to explain clearly. . . . . Those who know compressors understand this. . . 3) Check the alignment again; this is the more likely possibility ； 4) The worst outcome is rotor imbalance, which requires replacing the rotor ； The machines should have been tested upon leaving the factory, so this is unlikely. 5) Check the bearings to see if they have been stored for too long and not properly protected; please provide more details.
There is significant vibration during startup; it must be a centrifugal compressor + turbine! ! Is the vibration large when it crosses the critical point? ? What’s the value? ? It cannot operate properly; if it’s not an operational issue, then maintenance is the only option!
It’s stated too generally; it’s best to conduct a thorough inspection to rule out any irrelevant interfering factors such as the installation of the instruments and the instrument signals. Generally, when there is significant vibration in the compressor during single-unit testing, it could be due to poor alignment, issues with the bearing shells, or pipeline stress. It’s advisable to discuss this in detail with the manufacturer’s service personnel.