Dynamics, Performance & Diagnosis

KEMA's dynamics, performance & diagnosis experts offer pulsation prevention studies, environmental noise studies, machine vibration analysis and assesses compressor performance

Prevention of pulsations
Rapid variations in pressure -pulsations- exceeding requirements may cause damage to parts of the gas transport system. In less serious cases, pulsations may interfere with flow measurements. Our specialists understand pulsations in various network configurations. Based on our knowledge and experience with pulsation tests in our flow laboratory, we advise installation designers and help them to prevent pulsation problems in the most early stage of the design process.

Environmental noise
Less damaging, but just as important: the environmental noise of the gas transport system. This relates to parts of the installation such as gas receiving stations, measurement and regulating stations and compressor stations. Our specialists have established the noise emission of all existing Gasunie locations. Whenever new constructions are projected, we perform detailed noise studies during the design phase in order to provide licensing authorities with a clear idea of the anticipated noise profile.

Compressor performance
Rotating equipment is widely used for gas compression. We provide advice and technical support, including vibration measurements to bring down the costs and increase the versatility. We have knowledge of the market, specific knowledge of the equipment, special test facilities and many years of practical know-how. Our know-how also covers the relationship between gas composition, performance and safety.

Diagnosis of vibrations
Machine diagnostics is one of KEMA’s specialisms. Machine vibrations play an important part when maintaining and performing diagnoses on turbine compressors in the high-pressure gas network. The vibration behavior of a machine contains information about its alignment, balancing and bearing condition, among other things. If there is a fault anywhere, it can often be found from the vibration behavior. For that reason, a base profile is made for each new or reconditioned machine. In case of high vibration levels we are in the position of being able to perform dedicated measurements with special equipment and to find the answers and solutions.