Foundation for Machinery
Foundation for Machinery
(OP)
There is an empirical rule that the weight(mass) of the foundation needs to be 3 times the machinery (API). How should the weight be calculated? Is it below grade only? If so is there any clarification any write up or commentary any where.






RE: Foundation for Machinery
RE: Foundation for Machinery
http://www.amazon.com/Design-Structures-Foundation...
Also, it should be remembered that the machinery vendor clearly bears some responsibility in the foundation design details.
Competent and first class pump vendors, such as Goulds and Flowsereve provide detailed requirements in their O&M manuals.
Whereas in the third world, there exists an active market in used equipment, there will always be a problem because all documentation has been usually thrown away by the previous machinery owner. This, of course, makes things extra difficult for the hapless newly graduated engineer who is assigned the foundation design for the used equipment.
The distinction must be understood between "reciprocating" equipment (which generates high and harmonic vibration) and smooth running "centrifugal" types of equipment
MJCronin
Sr. Process Engineer
RE: Foundation for Machinery
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
RE: Foundation for Machinery
RE: Foundation for Machinery
For vibrating machines on a rigid concrete pad footing, the book's Table 6.2 contains a step-by-step method of analysis. I have written a spreadsheet implementing this method, downloadable from my website (rmniall.com).
RE: Foundation for Machinery
Ideally since the soil is also a part of system, it's mass would also play a part, but it is convenient to ignore it due to it's minor stiffness.
coming back to your question, the mass of the footing both above and below the grade should be considered.
RE: Foundation for Machinery
I've got nothing against the S.Arya, M.O'Neill & G.Pincus book. It is a fine reference as well. And, anyone who wants to become an expert on this subject will want this as a part of their library. But, it's more theoretical than practical. As such, it may be a bit intimidating to someone who isn't already well versed in the subject.