PT 102: Low Frequency Vibration Measurements on a Compressor Gear Set

The gear set on a critical turbo-compressor was monitored with a standard industrial accelerometer at very low frequencies. Severe vibrations at the hunting tooth frequency were found to be amplified by a compressor surge modulation. Diagnostic evaluation and repair effectively eliminated the surge and hunting tooth vibrations-returning the compressor to proper operation.

Chlorine manufacturers liquefy chlorine gas for transportation to pulp and paper plants. Dynamic Signal Analysis performs vibration testing for a Canadian chemical company and evaluates their critical compressor trains prior to semiannual shut downs. Following shut down and refurbishment of a compressor section start up vibration spectra were recorded on a chlorine liquefier to ensure safe operation. The data was collected with a Wilcoxon Research Model 766 industrial accelerometer and a spectrum analyzer.