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National Grid – Grain LNG

National Grid operates a Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) terminal in Kent, the largest LNG facility in Europe with a throughput capability of 15 million tonnes per annum. A series of 6.6kV blower motors operate at the site. Given the critical nature of the operation at the site it is essential to minimise unplanned downtime for all assets and carry out planned maintenance in periods when demand is lower. To enable a planned preventative maintenance strategy, Houghton International was contracted by National Grid to carry out regular testing on a number of motors at the LNG Grain facility as part of a condition monitoring regime.

On-site electric motor testing

Implementation

Houghton International engineers carried out site visits to assess the quality of the HV insulation and the dielectric properties of the motor windings. By carrying out the testing periodically, the engineers can use the data as a trending measure to identify motors showing high levels of partial discharge or other signs of deterioration or aging. The range of tests can identify insulation or winding issues, providing a thorough assessment of the motors condition, depending on this, the motor would then require minor maintenance or a full rewind.

Overhaul

When a scheduled overhaul is required, this is carried out in Houghton International’s 120,000 sq. ft. facility. Rewinds are carried out using our HiFLEX coils, which are manufactured in house for complete control over quality and lead time, better windability, more protection from moisture and contaminants, and reduced partial discharge. By carrying out regular testing, we can identify which motors are deteriorating quickly and therefore should be prioritised for maintenance, saving the customer valuable time and money, as well as offering a sustainable solution to their business.

Outcome

A proactive maintenance schedule helps prevent costly unanticipated failures and Houghton International’s site services engineers can draw on years of experience to provide in-depth analysis of test results to further inform the maintenance strategy. Houghton International’s site services team also has comprehensive capabilities to fully manage the process of testing, decommissioning, removal transportation and overhaul as well as rewinding reinstallation and recommissioning at Grain LNG, making the process simpler and smoother for National Grid.

Thanks to Houghton International for their continued professional & efficient service. Without HI we would not have identified the deteriorating condition of a number of critical motors that could have failed in service with implications leading to potentially large commercial costs for the terminal. I would gladly recommend HI to colleagues and others in the industry. It has been a pleasure to work with them and I look forward to our continued working relationship.

Ashley Smith, National Grid

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