No-load test run of reciprocating machine
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There will be a no-load test run of the new hydrogen machine tomorrow, and I have a few questions: I’ve read several test plans; some of them suggest removing the intake and exhaust valves, while others do not. Is it necessary to remove them? Also, where can I find the operating parameters of the unit during no-load testing, such as current and bearing temperature? Finally, since it’s summer and the water temperature as well as the oil temperature are generally at levels that allow the system to operate, could we refrain from using cooling water for now, thereby avoiding the need to turn on the heater? We could add cooling water once the temperatures rise after the system starts operating
If there is no air leakage in the valve, it’s not necessary to remove it; however, cooling water must be added before starting the machine
Question 1: There is no need to remove the exhaust valve, unless it is a newly installed unit and a non-standard valve was used during the first trial run; in the case of regular production shutdowns for maintenance, it is not necessary to remove it. Question 2: For operating parameters, in DCS systems these generally include the shaft speed and oil temperature; motor current can be checked with the electrical department. Under no-load conditions, the current usually does not exceed a certain level, and there are ammeters on the control panel at the site that can provide reference values. Question 3: It is best to keep the oil temperature below 30 degrees when starting up the machine. Turn on the lubricating oil cooling water in advance; the temperature will rise after startup. The rotation speed of reciprocating machines is not very high, around 300 revolutions per minute, so it’s not as problematic as with centrifuges. However, the packing cooling water must definitely be turned on before starting the machine. I hope the answer is helpful to you.
It’s just our first test drive – why do we have to remove the valve if it’s not yet the official one?
Who can guarantee that the first installation will be problem-free? The manufacturer isn’t stupid either – they wouldn’t give you an expensive testing valve that may cost hundreds of thousands of dollars just for testing purposes. You wouldn’t do the same, right? It’s the same principle as using simulated signals to test the operation of a valve during the first startup of a new installation; you understand now!
If your boss has the money, you can use proper valves as well. I’ve already answered your question regarding the use of water: it needs to be used for cooling the packing, regardless of the temperature, whether the unit is in standby mode or in operation. Unless the unit is under maintenance and not in use, then everything can be stopped
The motor heater must be turned on; only then can it meet the requirements of a proper backup unit. It’s possible that it will rain and become humid, so the cooling water must be turned on before starting the machine, as various problems could arise. We must take safety measures to prevent secondary issues from occurring. If it’s just a load-unloading test, there’s no need to start the machine – simply conducting valve tests is sufficient.
That makes sense; it’s our first test drive, and since it’s the rainy season, it’s necessary to run the space heater for a while
Hehe, as long as you think it makes sense, that’s great. If there are any issues, we can just communicate with each other.