Refinery compressor restored to health

Alphatec Engineering, the machinery grouting specialist based in Valencia, Spain, recently completed a foundation repair, compressor regrout, motor baseplate regrout and re-alignment of an important link in the refining process at Petroplus’ Cressier refinery in Switzerland.

“Higher commodity prices and a weakening US dollar continued to be the driving force behind the steady rise of costs in the downstream sector.”

The Thomassen compressor had been suffering from elevated vibration levels for some years, and eventually experienced a couple of mechanical failures over the last 12 months.  Thomassen suggested asking Alphatec to look at the installation, and an inspection was carried out in March 2010. A report and repair proposal was submitted by Alphatec Engineering, and work started in late May. Despite delays in securing replacement parts, and mecahnical work, the compressor was aligned and grouted by the middle of June, and back on-line in July.

Stéphane Viali, the Plant Maintenance Manager, said: "The compressor is now working working very well, thanks to the fine work performed by Alphatec Engineering."

For more information, please visit www.alphatec-engineering.com