Failure Analysis – Panel Coil in a Sterilization Process

Failure analysis was performed on panel coil components in a large sterilizer. A failed specimen was examined, and it was determined that the cracking was due to fatigue. This observation led to the possibility that the failure was caused by vibration due to the rotating agitator. Bounding calculations indicated that the panels possessed natural frequencies between 8 and 100 Hz.

The forcing frequency of the six-bladed agitator was 15 Hz and vibration was therefore identified as the most likely culprit. Concurrently, finite element dynamic methods were used to established a natural frequency to account for the immersion of the panel in water, the frequency was close to 15 Hz. The two independent analyses both demonstrated the failure was induced by fatigue. Locations were provided for panel coil supports to eliminate the lower modes of vibration. O’Donnell engineers provided further guidance to assure the adequacy of welding processes and welding materials to achieve modifications that subsequently performed reliably in service.

We Perform Failure Analysis and Design Modification for Clients in Industries including Energy, Manufacturing and Petrochemical.

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Related Projects

– Failure Analysis and Repair of an Overpressurized Storage Tank
– Failure Analysis and Redesign on a Cracked Thin Film Heat Exchanger (TFHE)
– Analysis of Defects in 304 Stainless Steel Mixer Blades

Similar Services

– Failure Analysis Services
– Vibration Troubleshooting & Analysis
– Engineering Troubleshooting

Resources

– Tom O’Donnell, PE
– Links to Engineering Resources
– Publications: Pressure Vessels, Welds and Other Applications, Fatigue, Elevated Temperature