Pipe Strain Rectification

AVTPUMP was asked by an existing customer to investigate repeated premature failures affecting a critical crude oil transfer pump. The pump is used to load large distribution vessels, so poor reliability was causing operational disruption, scheduling delays, emergency repair costs and restrictions on loading activity.

The failures were having an impact beyond the pump itself. Any delay to vessel loading could create significant commercial consequences. The customer needed AVTPUMP to identify the underlying cause and restore the installation to a reliable operating condition.

AVTPUMP attended site to assess the full pump and motor arrangement. Checks were carried out for shaft alignment, soft foot and pipe strain to determine whether installation conditions were contributing to the repeated failures.

The focus was on identifying and correcting the root cause rather than continuing with reactive repair work.

The pump was found to be significantly misaligned on the horizontal axis, with motor soft foot also identified. Testing also confirmed pipe strain, with the suction pipework moving 0.53mm horizontally.

Left unresolved, these conditions could accelerate bearing and coupling wear, increase the risk of mechanical seal failure and reduce overall pump reliability.

AVTPUMP worked alongside the customer’s pipework team to install additional pipe supports and remove the strain acting on the pump.

Once the pipework had been stabilised, the motor soft foot was corrected and the pump and motor were precision aligned using laser alignment equipment.

The complete rectification was carried out during a two-day site visit.

Following completion of the works, no further premature failures were reported.

By correcting the installation conditions rather than repeatedly repairing the resulting damage, AVTPUMP helped restore reliable operation and reduce the wider operational, safety and commercial risks associated with failure of a critical crude oil transfer pump.