TROUBLESHOOTING
PROCESS OPERATIONS
Unusual Noises and Vibrations
UNUSUAL NOISES AND VIBRATIONS
Many process equipment failures are preceded by unusual noises and vibrations.
An alert operator can prevent damage to a vital plant component by identifying
such sounds.
The troubleshooter may be asked to explain the cause of the noise and how to stop
it.
UNUSUAL NOISES AND VIBRATIONS
The origin of some of these problems are:
•Eroded valve internal
•Cavitating pumps
•Large pumps running at reduced capacity
•Surging centrifugal compressors
•Exchanger pass partition failing
•Flashing hydrocarbons in water lines
•Harmonic vibration in large exchangers
•Cooling fuel rich in a furnace
•Water hammer in steam systems
The cause of these sounds should be
investigated
UNUSUAL NOISES AND VIBRATIONS
Rotating Equipment
A large centrifugal compressor that has begun to surge will emit a deep, roaring
sound at regular intervals of several seconds.
A compressor in surge is operating in an unstable mode.
Sand Washing inspecting piping and
exchangers for corrosion and washing out of the metal on the inside
of exchanger heads.
“Hydrocarbon Leaks” Check cooling water pump
deficiencies.
Cooling water suction filter / strainer
plugging.
