Dynamic non-linear vibration analysis was conducted for a new compressor installation. The compressor was generically modeled, but created so that both center of gravity and weights were accurate. All rebar was modeled and embedded in the concrete pedestals. Pad and pedestals bolts are modeled and pre-loads included. Soil is included in the FEA model and uses a recent soil report for mechanical property derivations.
Manufacturer inertial unbalance loads were provided and simulated for twenty plus cycles. Peak-to-peak vibration amplitudes were captured and then compared to manufacturer allowable values. All vibration loads were found to be acceptable, but one recommendation was made to shore up support at the cylinder heads based on the FEA observations and past experiences with failures in the discharge valve ports of similar equipment.
