The two new compressors required for the Linz location were piston models. These machines are known to produce considerable levels of vibration while in operation. In order to identify and counteract any negative impact on the surrounding equipment and adjacent office space at an early stage, LINDE PLANTSERV® carried out appropriate safety and stability tests. Their analysis convinced the plant experts that no additional structural work would be required after commissioning. The results did, however, show that the machines would need a few modifications but Kelbch was able to implement these within schedule.
“In addition to all this, we had to submit plans to the relevant authorities setting out the structural engineering safeguards we would put in place for the compressors, due to the fact that compressed oxygen is highly flammable,” Kelbch continues. One example was the fire containment enclosure, with its removable covers, which must comply with European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA) guidelines. The Linde Gas team provided sterling on-site support when it came to liaising with the local authorities as well as with the Linz municipal fire department and voestalpine’s own fire service. This enabled early identification of the regulatory requirements that would need to be factored into the engineering plan. “Given that the location in Linz has been established for several decades now, we were able to bring a wealth of experience to the table, which undoubtedly contributed to the smooth execution of this project,” pointed out Suchanek. Summarizing the secret to success, he says: “Throughout the entire process flow, we were always able to find the best possible job sharing model across the LINDE PLANTSERV® and Linde Gas teams.”