Dynamic Response Evaluation of A Framed Type Turbo-generator Foundation Incorporating Dynamic Modulus and Operating Speed Variations

Framed type foundation structures supporting turbo-generator machinery in a power plant have stringent vibration limits to ensure proper functioning of turbine generators without any breakdown. Current dynamic analysis methodology for such dynamically sensitive structures involves modal synthesis considering a single value of operating speed for the machinery and a uniform dynamic modulus for the frame material, which cannot be realized in site conditions. Such variations in the dynamic modulus across the whole structure and running speed of the machinery during normal operation have a profound impact on its dynamic performance which may result in alarmingly increasing amplitudes leading to subsequent breakdown of the machinery. A new methodology is outlined that combines the effects of the two variations by way of considering an enhanced range of speeds on either side of the operating speed for the modal synthesis process. This study shows the effects of variations in the dynamic modulus and operating speed on the peak dynamic response of a typical framed turbo-generator foundation structure. The modal synthesis process adopted in the study includes the significant modes in the sub-resonant range and a band of modes around the operating speed to obtain the peak response of the framed structure.