This case study on Vibration and Structural Analysis on an Anti-Surge Valve in the gas industry was originally provided by our friends Dewesoft.
Vibration issues in critical industrial equipment can lead to mechanical failures, costly downtime, and safety risks, especially in high-pressure gas applications. At a gas company in Peru, excessive vibration in anti-surge valves was causing operational instability. So to address this, Vibro Technology, an experienced engineering firm specialising in vibration diagnostics was employed. In addition, they used Dewesoft’s advanced data acquisition systems to analyse, verify, and mitigate the structural issues affecting the valves.
The Challenge: Excessive Vibration in Anti-Surge Valves
Anti-surge valves play a crucial role in gas compression systems. Firstly, ensuring compressors operate smoothly and preventing dangerous pressure surges. However, at this Peruvian gas facility, engineers observed unexpected resonance and excessive vibration in these valves. Therefore, posing a risk of fatigue failure. The company needed accurate data-driven insights to determine the root cause of the issue and implement corrective actions.
The Solution: Dewesoft-Powered Structural Verification
Vibro Technology deployed Dewesoft’s high-performance data acquisition (DAQ) technology. Including the IOLITE-R8r – data acquisition system, SIRIUS-HD-16xACC – vibration collector and the 3xMEMS-ACC – MEMS vibration sensor to conduct a comprehensive structural verification of the anti-surge valves. Their methodology included:
- Vibration Monitoring with High-Precision Sensors – Measuring acceleration and frequency responses at key structural points.
- Operational Deflection Shape (ODS) Analysis – Identifying areas of excessive movement under operational conditions.
- Modal Analysis – Detecting natural frequency resonance that could be amplifying vibrations.
- Time-Synchronised Data Recording – Ensuring precise correlation between valve operation and vibration behaviour.
By leveraging Dewesoft’s versatile software, Vibro Technology engineers were able to visualise vibration modes. Therefore, compare live operational data with expected performance, and pinpoint structural weaknesses in the valve system.
The Results: Improved Valve Stability and Performance
The analysis conducted by Vibro Technology with Dewesoft equipment revealed that certain resonant frequencies were amplifying vibrations, causing stress and fatigue in the anti-surge valve assembly. Based on these findings, the gas company implemented targeted structural modifications, which successfully reduced vibration levels and enhanced operational reliability.
Key Benefits of the Vibration and Structural Analysis on an Anti-Surge Valve Approach:
Accurate Root Cause Analysis – Vibro Technology identified precise vibration sources using high-resolution DAQ sensors including the Dewesoft 3xMEMS-ACC
Real-Time Data for Informed Decisions – Assessments could performed on the spot.
Preventative Maintenance Strategies – Predictive analysis helped avoid unexpected equipment failures.
Enhanced Safety & Reliability – The gas company significantly reduced the risk of valve fatigue failure.
Metromatics: Your Local Dewesoft Partner
As an authorised distributor for Dewesoft in Australia and New Zealand. Metromatics provides local expertise, sales, and support for structural vibration monitoring in oil & gas, energy, and industrial applications. If your facility requires precision data acquisition. For vibration analysis and predictive maintenance, our experienced team can help deploy the right Dewesoft solutions for your needs.
📩 Looking to improve vibration monitoring in your operations?
Contact us today to discuss how Dewesoft technology can enhance the reliability of your critical equipment.
📖 Read the full Dewesoft application note here: Structural Verification of Anti-Surge Valves