Replacing Suface Condenser
Replacing Suface Condenser
(OP)
One of the surface condensers (for steam turbine) have completed its service life and we want to replace it by a new one. The weight of the condenser is 105 tons and its surrounded by structure and piping on three sides and over the top. To remove it,the only possible option to pull it from one free side only. Now our idea is to place cradles (02 ) below it and the cradles will be supported by roller skates. Once this arrangement will be in place, we can transfer its load from foundation pedestals to the roller skates and move it outside towards the free end. Please advice if we can do it in this way? If yes what capacity roller skates would you suggest for it (and how much number).





RE: Replacing Suface Condenser
http
You may have to design (or have a competent Engineering firm design) your own 'cradle' with which to utilize the rollers.
rmw
RE: Replacing Suface Condenser
Thanks for the comments. It seems that you have some previous experience of doing such job. There are two options with us:
1. Heavy duty casters (up to 20 Tons each capacity, which max. capacity available in the market)
2. Roller Skates
Each have its own advantage and disadvantage. The casters have the advantage of relatively bigger wheel diameter (minimum chance of sticking in the floor while dragging). But the disadvantage is the lower capacity (one caster has the maximum 20 ton capacity)
The roller skates have the advantage of very high load bearing capacity, but the disadvantage is the smaller diameter of rollers which makes it prone to sticking with floor while dragging.
Which option should be preferred now?
RE: Replacing Suface Condenser
Alternatively, if you can jack the condenser high enough, use some inverted channel for the skates to roll in. This assumes that you have a straight run to get it to a place where it can be lifted - if you have to turn it while rolling it then you are back to plate.
Good luck,
rmw
RE: Replacing Suface Condenser
RE: Replacing Suface Condenser