Baseplate Structural Analysis of API BB5 Type Multistage Centrifugal Pump for F.P.S.O Application

A Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) unit is a floating vessel used by the offshore oil and gas industry for the processing of hydrocarbon and for storage of oil. FPSO vessels are subjected to heavy seas during storms and rogue waves. Pump and drive train components have to be capable of operating during such specified condition. Multistage BBS type centrifugal pump is used on this FPSO vessel. Pump is mounted on FPSO vessel structure. Baseplate for this pump is non-grout baseplate as it is mounted on structure. Baseplate structural stiffness analysis is carried out to determine stiffness of baseplate against forces and moments acting on nozzle connections caused by various loading conditions such as pipe weight, liquid loads, and thermal expansion or contraction. Baseplate structural stiffness analysis is carried out by two methods 1) FEA analysis method and 2) Experimental method. Baseplate stiffness inform of shaft end displacement is compared with API 610 [1] guideline to insure whether shaft end displacement is within allowable limit. In both the analysis method baseplate stiffness inform of shaft end displacement is found within allowable limit. Detailed FEA analysis and experimental analysis is carried out and results are described in this paper.