Inspection methods for chemical plant operators

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I. First, for static equipment, it is necessary to check that the readings on on-site thermometers, pressure gauges, level gauges, etc. match those indicated indoors, and to pay attention to any signs of leakage. 1. Detect abnormal noises or vibrations, paying special attention to heat-generating equipment: Identify differences in noises and vibrations by listening or touching, and report them. 2. Check the process, lubricating oil, and seal oil systems for leaks. Note: During each lubricant inspection, the lubricant and seal oil systems must be checked: verify for any leaks at the connections of the compressor casing ； Check the shaft and bearings for signs of leakage ； For compressors sealed with seal oil, it is necessary to regularly inspect the seals to determine the leakage rate of the seal oil ； For compressors sealed with dry gas, it is necessary to monitor the seal gas control panel in order to determine the seal gas leakage rate and potential issues. 3. Check the liquid level at the sight glass of the suction tank: This is a cross-check to ensure that the liquid level gauge and controls in the suction tank are functioning properly, as liquid entrainment in the suction tank can cause serious damage to the compressor. 4. Check the oil return line sight glass: When the compressor is operating, there should be an adequate flow of lubricating oil in the compressor’s bearing housing. Note: The amount of oil flowing out of the thrust bearing housing is generally larger. 5. Ensure the lubrication system is operating properly: The lubrication pressure is normal ； The pressure difference of the lubricating oil filter is normal ； The lubricating oil standby pump is not running but is in auto-start mode ； The lubrication oil pipe does not leak ； The lubricant temperature is within the normal range ； The safety valve shows no leakage and has not activated. 6. Check all on-site instruments and meters: Verify that the readings are normal and consistent with those of the electronic instruments. 7. Record any abnormalities in the logbook: fill in a comparison record and explain the deviations; if they cannot be explained, an investigation should be conducted and a report submitted ； Hand over the reported or unreported issues at the end of the shift. II. Listening: This is mainly to check whether there are any noises or sharp grinding sounds in the moving equipment, and whether the vibration is excessive. The main thing is to listen for any differences in the sounds compared to normal conditions. Those who have spent time in chemical plants understand that this is easy to do, as one becomes very familiar with the sounds of the equipment operating normally over time; if there’s a problem with its operation, the sounds will definitely be different. Also, check the lubricant level and add some oil, as well as monitor the temperatures of the key control points related to the bearings.