On-Site Machining of a Hyper Crankcase at a LDPE Plant

„Before machining it was possible to see the movement between crankcase and distance pieces, mainly on the 2nd stage, and a quite high oil leakage between both surfaces. Now all is much more stable and “static”.

Alberto Munarriz
Mechanical Maintenance Manager TDE

Customer Challenges:

• Perform all maintenance activities for the general overhaul after nine years of continuous operation on a Hyper Compressor within 28 days
• Repair of damaged surfaces on crankcase and distance pieces during plant shutdown
• Perform the on-site machining of the crankcase and distance pieces within this time frame
• Avoid unplanned downtimes

Application Description:

Burckhardt Compression Solution:

• General overhaul with two Burckhardt Compression Supervisors on-site on double shift
• Crankcase machining on-site (including prior levelling check) instead of dismantling the entire compressor and transporting the crankcase to a workshop
• Machining of distance pieces and other internal parts carried out in a local workshop
• This was the first time such a repair is done on-site in a F-type worldwide
• Machining controlled by a dedicated Field Service Representative from Burckhardt Compression

Customer Benefits:

• Smoother and safer operation of the compressor with a significant reduction of movement and vibrations on distance pieces and cylinders during operation
• Minimized oil leakage between crankcase and distance piece
• Easier alignment of distance pieces and cylinders after overhaul
• Extended lifetime of plunger, packing and elastic rod
• Zero safety incidents due to highest safety standards

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