Activity: Evaluate Compressor/Piping Layout and Supports

Review these reciprocating compressor application photos. Can you spot any potential
vibration problems? Mark up supports or changes that you would recommend on the next
project.

Lower
flange

Support
elbow

Wedges are
too tall

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Unsupported
elbow

Unsupported
valve

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Expansion looks High point vent
are too flexible SBC

Elevated PSV
and isolation
valve

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Unsupported
PSV

Level indication
with flange
isolation valves

Suction bottle
is over-hung

Tall, small
diameter scrubber

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Large mass and long
projection of vent and
pressure indicator

Crosshead guide
support is too flexible

HE support is
too flexible

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Very good design. No
changes.

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 Add gusset to prevent
web from flexing

Too many structural

elements welded together
will make a flexible support.
Use epoxy grout to ensure
contact between concrete
and support base

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities

 U-bolt pipe restraint on
a small L-section (too
flexible)

Wood Vibrations, Dynamics, and Noise Vibration Activities