Ultrasound Applications |
Case Study: CompressorsA major power plant uses the UL101 to monitor compressors and determine which, if any, valves are clogged. This fossil fuel plant generates more than 850 megawatts of electricity and can operate at base load, intermediate, and peak demand levels. Large reciprocating compressors are used in this process. When a compressor was failing to generate enough pressure, the maintenance staff would try and clean each of the valves. With eight valves, it took a full shift and several personnel to remove each valve, check it, clean it, and reinstall it back into the compressor. With the implementation of the UL101, a single person can check each valve during normal operation of the compressor. If a valve sounds like it needs to be cleaned, it will be scheduled for maintenance. Not only is time saved by not removing all of the valves, but the task of cleaning is performed less often. The UL101 is also used to train new maintenance personnel on the different equipment at the power plant. A competitive device was previously purchased, but because of the UL101's capabilities and ease of use the device was never taken from its case despite costing twice as much. |