Experimental and Finite Element Analysis of Baseframe for rigidity

In this paper Experimental and Finite Element Analysis of Baseframe for Rigidity is presented. The assurance of rigidity as per API 610 is mandatory for pumps baseframe supplied in petrochemical industry. A proven rigidity test procedure is used for testing the structural stiffness of baseframe in line with API 610 clause 6.3.5. For typical baseframe, the stiffness is measured by means of rigidity test (actual measurement) for different load cases. The test is carried out to check the conformance of the existing design to API 610 stiffness requirement. Since the existing design fails to meet this requirement, few potential design modifications are suggested. These modified cases are simulated using FEA techniques for stiffness qualification. ANSYS is used for simulation of these cases including that of existing design, for bench marking and comparison purpose. The results of FE analysis are presented in terms of deflection at coupling side shaft end (guideline form API 610), which is supported between bearings in pump bearing housing at static condition. Based on these results, best feasible design solution is proposed and validated experimentally.