Vibration Revealed a Structural Problem
Kirkkonummi Water is a water utility company operating in the municipality of Kirkkonummi, responsible for the production of drinking water and the conveyance of wastewater for treatment. The operational reliability of pumping stations plays a key role in ensuring uninterrupted water services.
In vibration measurements carried out in cooperation with Nome at wastewater pumping stations, structural problems related to pumps have been identified. At one pumping station, an unusually high level of vibration, also visible to the naked eye, was detected in a vertical pump. Based on the measurement analysis, the root cause of the problem was identified as resonance combined with inadequate support in another direction. This was a situation where the operating conditions coincided with the device’s natural vibration range.
Targeted Measures Eliminated the Problem
The situation was addressed with two simple but effective measures: the lower limit of the frequency converter was adjusted to avoid the resonance range, and the motor was supported against the wall with an additional structure. After these changes, the vibration was practically eliminated without significant changes to the pumping station’s process.
Preventive Action Avoided Greater Risks
Without intervention, the load on the pump would likely have shortened its service life and caused unexpected maintenance needs in the future. In addition, maintenance alone would not have eliminated the root cause, meaning the problem would have continued despite maintenance. With the help of vibration measurements and resonance analysis, the customer achieved improved service life and operational reliability, while simple and cost-effective corrective measures were made possible. At the same time, the risk of unexpected future maintenance could be reduced.
