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Engine & Compressor Diagnostic Services

Mechanical Condition & Performance Analysis - Work Scope

Visual Inspection

The analyst will listen and look for abnormalities in the normal operation of the unit and use these notes to help focus and direct the analysis process.  If conditions indicate, the analyst will use the spectral vibration capability of the analysis equipment to check for excessive skid, frame and cylinder movement.

Ignition System Analysis

The analyst will gather statistical data on the secondary ignition system to determine accurate timing and ionization voltage information and measure the secondary arc duration, arc voltage, rise time, ring-down voltage, arc slope, no combustion and no arc events. 

The analyst will observe and record the real time expanded secondary patterns to determine if there are problems with the spark plug wires, connections, transformers and primary wiring.

Compressor End Analysis

If an accurate TDC reference is available and indicator valves are installed, the analyst will measure the horsepower being consumed in each end of each cylinder, add the appropriate parasitic and accessory loads and provide the customer with a total BHP load and torque for the unit. 

The suction and discharge volumetric efficiencies, flow rate, theoretical temperatures, clearances and horsepower will be measured or calculated as appropriate.  The analyst will compare the measured data to these calculations and this comparison, along with measured valve cap temperatures, vibration and ultrasonic vs. crank-angle patterns, will allow the analyst to pinpoint performance deficiencies related to design or mechanical deficiencies.

If indicator valves are installed in the cylinder suction and discharge cavities, valve power losses can be measured. 

Vibration vs. Crank Angle testing will be used to evaluate the frame components including crosshead components and bearings.  Pressure, Vibration and Ultrasonic vs. Crank Angle will be used to evaluate rings, riders, valves and capacity control devices.

On those cylinders equipped with indicator valves in both ends, static rod loads will be measured.  If detailed reciprocating weights are available, the dynamic rod loads will also be measured and graphed with a calculation of available rod reversal in degrees of crankshaft rotation.

Power End Analysis

Vibration and ultrasonic vs. Crank-angle will be used to determine all event angles and identify deficiencies related to intake, exhaust and fuel valves; pistons, liners, rings, wrist pins, bushings and bearings.  Deficiencies will be identified related to valve timing, cam and actuating components, valve lash, etc.

If indicator valves are installed, pressure will be measured at each degree of crankshaft rotation, developed horsepower will be measured and the unit balance will be measured.  The pressure information is a valuable performance indicator and can add valuable information to the mechanical condition analysis process.  Complete statistical information will be gathered.

Many high speed engines have no provisions for indicator valves.  Little separation between cylinders and a high incidence of vibration cross-talk presents the opportunity to miss real problems and mistakenly identify a normal event as a deficiency.  To reduce this problem, we utilize state of the art digital, real time analysis equipment allowing our analysts to visually see these cross-talk relationships.  In addition, our Technical Services analysts have over 75 years of combined experience testing units in this category.

Reports

A Field Summary Report will be prepared and left on-site at the completion of the analysis visit. This report will include general performance information and a list of deficiencies that require the customer’s attention prior to receiving the formal report.

The formal report will be prepared in pdf format in the analyst’s office and will typically include the following:

 

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Please contact Mr. Warren Laible -
PHONE: 865-539-5944 ext 22 • EMAIL wlaible@windrock.com • MOBILE PHONE:  865-806-8878


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