Sofronas, A.
Tony Sofronas, D. Eng, was the worldwide lead mechanical engineer for ExxonMobil Chemicals before retiring. He now owns Engineered Products, which provides consulting and engineering seminars on machinery and pressure vessels. Dr. Sofronas has authored two engineering books and numerous technical articles on analytical methods.
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 85: Learnings on hydraulically fitted hubs
Hubs connect one piece of machinery to another, usually with some flexible coupling between them. Installers have only limited time to work with the hot hub. When incorrectly positioned, it may have to be removed, which has the potential of damaging the shaft end.
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 84: Remaining service life of plant equipment can be determined
For new plant machines and equipment, the life expectancy is determined by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Yet, different analysis techniques are often required in a failure analysis. In a ..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 83: What are useful questions to ask before starting a vibration analysis?
Periodically, this author receives questions from readers throughout the world addressing what performance issues could be wrong with a centrifugal compressor that is vibrating. Note: It is impossible..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 82: Be cautious when purchasing ‘first of kind’ equipment
What is the definition of “first of kind” when discussing equipment and products? The definition used in this editorial is the “first built for your company,” and it can often have..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 81: Is consulting a possible second career for you?
Often, engineers consider becoming consultants as a second career path. This was certainly true for this author, and it occurred early during his career. Equally important, his career turned out well,..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 80: Sudden temperature change in a centrifugal compressor
A process upset occurred that caused the gas temperature of a centrifugal compressor to increase from the design condition of Tstart = 300°F to Tinf = 600°F in t = 0.25 hours. Some engineers..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 79: Integral compressor failures
Recently, the author received information regarding the failure of a large reciprocating compressor. In this example, the pistons for power and compressor cylinders are powered by the same crankshaft...
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 78: Writing concisely is a definite work skill
How is it possible to collect and condense so much technical information onto a single page? Answer: It is not by chance. Getting through long speeches or tedious articles are not enjoyable experience..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 77: Random deck vibration with beats
When something vibrates, it is usually in a predictable manner. Motors, pumps, compressors, turbines and centrifuges all vibrate when they are out of balance. Vibration analysis can help predict the s..
HP Engineering Case Histories: Case 76: Simple troubleshooting analysis tips are useful
Analyzing failed parts or poor operation requires the proper skills and equipment. Sometimes these investigations are not always very difficult. Often, troubleshooting a failure just requires a logica..
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