“Dynamic
Analysis of Large Compressor Foundations in Industrial Plants”
by
Dr. Song F. Jan,
P.E.
Bechtel Corporation
Houston, TX
Abstract
Over
the past decade, the capacities of large process compressors have increased
substantially. Subsequently, the concrete structures and pedestals
supporting these units are becoming taller and larger - resisting higher
static and dynamic loads. Moreover, in industrial plants such as
refineries, chemical plants, gas plants and power plants, it's normal practice
to support multiple compressors on a common mat due to space limitations.
For this case, the effect of interaction between units on dynamic responses
can be significant and should be considered in the design. For plants
located in high seismic zones, a dynamic response spectra analysis adds
even greater complexity. Therefore, the design of a compressor pedestal
becomes one of the most challenging and sophisticated foundation designs
on an industrial project.
This paper presents analytical and design
steps for designing multiple dynamic equipment foundations on a common
mat using GT STRUDL. The powerful dynamic analysis and concrete design
capabilities in GT STRUDL simplify and automate the complex design task
that will save the project significant design time.
The
analysis and design of a foundation supporting two large units of compressor
and gas turbine will be used to illustrate the design steps.
The
following design steps will be presented:
§Machine
data
§Seismic
loads and design spectra
§Geotechnical
data
§Design
loads
§Design
criteria
§Sizing
pedestals and foundation
§Finite
element modeling
§Harmonic
analysis for vibration responses
§Seismic
response spectra analysis
§Static
analysis with UBC earthquake loads
§Evaluating
seismic design forces based on steps 9 and 10
§Reinforced
concrete design with ACI seismic provisions
The
required GT STRUDL input data and commands will be discussed during the
presentation.
Biographical Data
Dr. Song Jan is Principal Engineer at Bechtel
Corporation for 28 years. He is expert in the areas of structural dynamics,
finite element analysis, steel and reinforced concrete design. He has extensive
design experiences in refineries and chemical plants, LNG structures, Delayed
coker units, nuclear and conventional power plants.
Education
Ph.D.
Engineering Mechanics, University of Texas at Austin, 1971
M.S.
Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, 1966