This document summarizes a presentation on vibration control and prevention for vertical turbine pumps. It discusses how excessive vibration can lead to premature wear and failure, and emphasizes the importance of proper installation practices like alignment, leveling of foundations, and piping design to control vibration. Methods of detecting vibration issues like high bearing temperatures or noise are covered. The presentation provides guidance on inspection and remediation steps to address vibration problems.

1. The presentation that follows was given during
Carotek’s Fifth Annual Process Solutions Summit in
Charlotte NC September 24 – 25, 2014.
Used with Permission.

2. Hands-On Vertical Turbine Pump Tear
Down and Discussion of Vibration

3. Excessive vibration is one of the most common
causes of premature wear and catastrophic failure
of a vertical turbine pump; leading to costly repairs
and unnecessary downtime. It is especially
important with a vertical turbine pump; particularly
in deep set applications, because of the cost of
removing and re-installing the pump. Major effects
of excessive vibration can be avoided with proper
installation practices and early detection and
remedy.

4. Installation Practices
Vibration Control
• Always Review Installation/Operation Manual (IOM)
Instructions Prior to Beginning Work on Pump
• Develop and Follow Preventive Maintenance (PM) Plans
According to IOM Recommendations
• Start with Good Foundation and Appropriately Sized
Bases and/or Sole Plates
• Confirm Proper Rotation with Pump Uncoupled from
Motor
• Check Lateral Settings Allowing for Shaft Stretch
• Consider Vibration Probes Installed in Pump and/or Motor
• Install an air release valve on the pump discharge

5. Installation Practices (continued)
Vibration Control
• Pipe Strain
• Start at the Pump with the Piping Installation
• Install Pipe Supports
• No Sharp Turns off of Discharge
• Alignment
• Set on Base after Piping / Grouting / Cleaning
Registers
• Level Soleplate or Foundation – One of the most
important factors for long pump life
• Vertical 50’ to Water Level – Add Solenoid to Pre-
Lubricate Bearings
• Take into Consideration High Pressure or Large Shafting

6. Vibration Control

7. Vibration Control

8. Installation, Operation & Maintenance (IOM)
Manual
Vibration Control

9. Methods of Alignment
Vibration Control
• Straight Edge – Simplest method of aligning the shafts of
the pump and motor, using a straight edge (ruler) or other
similar tool.
• Dial Indicator – A more precise method for aligning
opposing shafts with tool mounted on solid surface and a
dial that accurately measures “run out” on rotated shaft.
• Laser – The most modern and accurate method for
aligning opposing shafts. Lasers are used to measure
shaft misalignment and guarantee proper final alignment.

10. Methods of Alignment – Straight Edge
Vibration Control

11. Methods of Alignment – Dial Indicator
Vibration Control

12. Methods of Alignment – Laser Alignment
Vibration Control

13. When excessive vibration is detected; or “vibration
symptoms” begin to escalate, it is imperative that
the root cause is determined and rectified
immediately. Failure to take action may result in
accelerated wear or total equipment failure, which
is very costly with vertical turbine pumps, especially
deep set turbines.
Vibration Detection

14. Vibration Detection
Symptoms
• Hot Bearings
• Frequent Bearing and Seal Failure
• Excessive Pump Noise
• Motor Bearings Run Noisy
• Excessive Vibration felt on and around the Pump
• Leaking at Packing Container
Causes
• Hydraulic or Mechanical Issues, i.e. misalignment
• Cavitation
• Pump Running to the Right on the Curve

15. Run as close as possible to BEP

16. Vibration Remediation
• Establish Extent of Vibration Issues using a Vibration
Analyzer or Similar Equipment
• Review Installation Instructions (Alignment)
• Check the Grouting for Signs of Cracking or Shifting
• Over 50’ of Column – pre-lube Shafting Before Re-start
• Install Vibration Probes or RTD’s for Future Early Detection
and Damage Prevention
• Establish or Re-evaluate Preventive Maintenance (PM)
Procedures