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Dry Gas Seal Reliability and the Development of Prognostic Models

Gajadin, R.D. (2017) Dry Gas Seal Reliability and the Development of Prognostic Models.

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Abstract:In an ultimate attempt to decrease costly unplanned downtime caused by the centrifugal compressors used in the Oi& Gas industry, a comprehensive approach to Maintenance- and Reliability Engineering has been explored in this study. Three distinct analyses were performed on the critical compressor’s dry gas seals (DGS) to further understand its failures and thus determine whether its maintenance can be made more predictive instead of reactive. Firstly on a high level, using the qualitative tools, FTA and FMECA. Here after, a statistical reliability analysis was performed, and lastly, a Physics of failure (PoF) analysis. The conclusions of these analyses showed that failures are usually due to some form of contamination of the DGS, failing due to its secondary sealing element (SSE), and other failure mechanisms of the SSE. A clear increasing failure rate and high correlation with running hours and compressor starts was also found. Finally, the PoF model was able to make remaining useful life estimate based on wear and successfully modeled the end-effects of extrusion, ageing and seal hangup. Thus, DGS maintenance can theoretically be made more predictive, given an adequate condition monitoring upgrade. More failure data and quantative validation of the PoF model are recommended for improvement.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Clients:
Siemens, Hengelo, The Netherlands
Faculty:ET: Engineering Technology
Subject:52 mechanical engineering
Programme:Mechanical Engineering MSc (60439)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/74262
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