Vibration Problem-Solving - Digested Sludge Feed Piping System
Client: North America Construction (NAC)
Location: LONA Wastewater Treatment Plant
Rapid problem-solving engineering to resolve severe commissioning vibration in a critical sludge feed piping system.
Project Overview
During commissioning, severe vibration impacted the piping system and surrounding structure. The priority was to diagnose the issue quickly, implement corrective actions with minimal downtime, and document a defensible solution.
IFEL was engaged to provide rapid problem-solving engineering services, focusing on identifying root causes and implementing solutions that could be executed in the field with minimal disruption.
Challenges
Vibration problems often involve multiple coupled contributors such as support placement, boundary conditions, and dynamic excitation. The system was already installed and partially commissioned, requiring practical field-executable modifications without major rework.
- Commissioning schedule constraints and limited downtime windows
- Need for practical, field-executable modifications
- Traceable documentation for turnover and future troubleshooting
Solution
IFEL inspected the system, evaluated constraints, and recommended targeted changes including strategic support additions and flexibility/stress checks. Field verification identified specific locations where vibration amplitudes were highest.
The analysis revealed that support spacing and boundary conditions were contributing factors. IFEL developed a solution involving strategic placement of additional supports and adjustments to existing configurations to alter the system's natural frequency and reduce dynamic response.
Outcome
The implemented changes resolved the vibration issue and supported stable commissioning, improving reliability and reducing the risk of rework and schedule delay. The system has operated reliably since the modifications were implemented.
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