Title: Analysis and Design of Elevated Foundations for Reciprocating Machines

Author(s): Suresh C. Arva and George Pincus

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 78

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1-32

Keywords: foundation; machine bases; structural design; vibration.

DOI: 10.14359/16902

Date: 1/1/1982

Abstract:
Most reciprocating machines are critical to the operation of the plant and, therefore, the sr~pporting structure must be carefully designed to avoid potential undesirable behavior such as attainment of a resonance condition. The designer is then confronted with selecting the best possible techniques in order to accomplish a trouble- free condition. Available engineering analysis tools include theory of vibrations, half-space theory, soil-structural analysis computer programs and rational modeling techniques. This paper summarizes and reviews the steps that must be considered during design of the supporting structure for an elevated reciprocating machine and provides practical guidelines which serve to obtain a realistic and useful design. Four different models are presented and discussed and an example problem is used to illustrate the main features and results of each model. It is concluded that the combination of the best modern scientific tools and modeling technique coupled with practical guidelines yields a reliable structural configuration.