10 20 Pressure Rasj RGSJ Manual Rev1110
10 20 Pressure Rasj RGSJ Manual Rev1110
10 20 Pressure Rasj RGSJ Manual Rev1110
Contents
IInformation Summary............................................................1 Preventative Maintenance....................................................16
Operating Characteristics.................................................. 3-4 Vibrations............................................................................17
Operating Limitations.............................................................4 Steam Service.............................................................. .18-19
Installation....................................................................... 4-11 High Vacuum Booster Service....................................... 20-21
Lubrication.................................................................... 12-13 Maintenance/Replacements.......................................... 22-29
Operation............................................................................14 Parts List.............................................................................30
Troubleshooting Checklist...................................................15 Assembly Drawings....................................................... 31-35
Safety Precautions......................................................... 15-16
2 | Dresser Roots
Operating Characteristics
Roots units covered in this manual, range in basic size from Operation of the proprietary RAS/RGS Whispair design blower
10 inches through 20 inches gear diameter. From a usage is represented in Figure 2. Air flow again is left to right, with the
or application standpoint there are two general types. Type lower shaft rotation counterclockwise. This design differs from
RAS/RAS Whispair units are designated as air blowers, and the basic type rotary blower in that it provides a chamber on
may be used for handling air or some gases where leakage the discharge side of the cylinder.
to atmosphere is not objectionable. Type RGS/RGS Whispair From this chamber two or more slots open back into the two
units are similar in basic design, but include seal modifications alternately closed pocket areas of the cylinder, shown as A and
necessary for the handling of gases where leakage needs to B. These slots, at certain impeller positions, allow discharge
be reduced to a practical minimum. pressure to bleed into the normally low pressure pockets. They
For simplicity, the term “blower” is used generally in this also provide a jet action on the impellers in the direction of
manual to refer to either type of unit. Where statements or rotation. Gradual pressure build-up in the pockets, to a level
data do not apply equally to both, the terms “air blower” and almost equal to the discharge pressure, reduces backflow rate
“gas blower” are used for identification. The Roots rotary lobe at the instant of pocket discharge so that pulsing and shock
blower is a positive displacement type unit, whose pumping noise are minimized.
capacity is determined by size, operating speed and pressure Considering Position 1 in Figure 2, known volume (A) is being
conditions. It employs two double-lobe impellers mounted delivered to the discharge chamber while space (B) is being
on parallel shafts and rotating in opposite directions within a filled with an equal volume at inlet pressure. In Position 2, this
cylinder closed at the ends by headplates. As the impellers space has been sealed off from the inlet, but some discharge
rotate, air or gas is drawn into one side of the cylinder and pressure is now entering space (B) through the slot passage,
forced out the opposite side against the existing pressure. The as indicated by the small arrows. Force of this jet gives a rota-
pressure developed, therefore, depends on the resistance of tive assist to the impeller, while also building pressure in sealed
the discharge system. Effective sealing of the blower inlet area space (B). Rotation continues to Position 3, where volume (B)
from the discharge area is accomplished by use of very small is delivered to the discharge chamber in the same manner
operating clearances. There is no metal to metal contact so as volume (A) in Position 1. Because of the almost complete
internal lubrication is not required. Clearances between the pressure equalization through the slot, shock is minimized.
impellers during rotation are maintained by a pair of accurately
With either blower design. no attempt should ever be made to
machined timing gears, mounted on the two shafts extending
control capacity by means of a throttle valve in the intake or
outside the air chamber blower casing.
discharge piping. This increases the power load on the driver.
Operation of the familiar basic rotary lobe blower is illustrated and may seriously damage the blower. Likewise, if a possibility
in Figure 1, where air flow is left to right from inlet to discharge exists that flow to the blower inlet may be cut off during normal
with the lower impeller rotating counterclockwise. In Position operation of a process. then an adequate vacuum relief valve
1, it is delivering a known volume (A) to the discharge, while should be installed in the inlet in the line near the blower. A
space (B) between the upper impeller and cylinder wall is pressure type relief valve in the discharge line near the blower
being filled. Clockwise rotation of this impeller then traps is also strongly recommended for protection against cut-off or
equal volume (B) in Position 2, and further rotation delivers blocking in this line.
it to the discharge in Position 3. At the same time, another
When a belt drive is employed, blower speed can usually be
similar volume is forming under the lower impeller, and will be
adjusted to obtain desired capacity by changing the diameter
discharged when rotation reaches Position 1 again.
of one or both sheaves. In a direct coupled arrangement, a
One complete revolution of the driving shaft alternately traps variable speed motor or transmission is required, or air may
four equal and known volumes of air (two by each impeller) and be vented through a manually controlled unloading valve and
pushes them through to the discharge. The pumping capacity silencer. If discharge air is returned to the blower inlet, it must
of a lobe blower operating at constant speed therefore remains go through a cooling by-pass arrangement.
relatively independent of reasonable inlet or discharge pressure
variations. To change capacity, it is necessary either to change
speed of rotation or vent some of the air.
B B
B B
B
Operating Limitations
To establish and maintain continued satisfactory performance, Sales Office. Normally, when a blower is operated at the design
any Roots blower must be operated within certain approved conditions stamped on its nameplate, the specified limits apply.
limiting conditions. The Manufacturer’s warranty is, of course, Pressure-On pressure service, the pressure rise in pounds per
contingent on such operation. square inch (kPa) between blower inlet and discharge, must not
RAS/RGS and RAS/RGS WHISPAIR™ blowers are available exceed the figure listed for the specific blower and frame size
with two types of internal blower clearances, normal and open. concerned. Also, in any system where the blower inlet is at a
Table 1 lists maximum pressure, temperature, vacuum and positive pressure above atmosphere, the discharge pressure
speed limits for both types of clearances. Before operating must never exceed 25 PSI (172 kPa) gauge regardless of
blower at the conditions under open clearances, make sure blower size.
that your blower is supplied with open clearances, check with On vacuum service, with the discharge going to atmospheric
Factory. Table 8 lists the values of normal clearances -Table 9 pressure, the inlet suction or vacuum in inches of mercury (kPa)
lists the values of open clearances. Do not exceed any one or must not be greater than the values listed for the specific frame
combinations of limits listed in Table 1. size.
Example: the listed maximum allowable temperature rise Temperature-Various blower frame sizes are approved only for
(increase in air temperature between inlet and discharge) for installations where the following temperature limitations can be
any particular blower may occur well before maximum speed maintained in service.
or maximum pressure rating is reached. Temperature rise then
A. M
aximum temperature rise (T.R) in Fahrenheit degrees (° C)
is the limiting condition. In other words, the operating limit is
must not exceed listed values when the inlet is at ambient
always to be determined by the maximum rating reached first. It
temperatures. Ambient is considered as the general
can be any one of the three: pressure, temperature or speed.
temperature of the space around the blower. This is not
Be sure to arrange connections or taps for thermometers and outdoor temperature unless the blower is installed outdoors.
pressure or vacuum gauges at or near the inlet and discharge
B. If inlet temperature is higher than ambient, the listed allow-
connections of the blower. These, along with a good tachom-
able temperature rise values must be reduced by 2/3 of the
eter, will enable periodic checks of operating conditions to be
difference between the actual measured inlet temperature
made easily.
and the ambient temperature.
Note-Some special purpose blowers may be assembled with
Speed Range-Blowers may be operated at speeds up to the
non-standard clearances other than shown in Table 8 or 9.
maximums listed for the various frame sizes. They may be
These units may be operated at pressure and or temperature
direct coupled to suitable constant speed drivers if pressure/
rises higher than those listed in applicable Table 1. Before doing
temperature conditions are also within limits. At lower speeds,
so, however, request specific approval from the nearest
excessive temperature rise may be the limiting factor.
Installation
Technical assistance at installation by a Factory Service a Service Engineer may be employed for assistance or for final
Engineer is usually not required for the smaller units, frame checking of an installation.
series 1000 through 1400. Workmen with general experience Handling of the equipment should be accomplished by
in installing heavy machinery should be able to complete a methods conforming to safe practice for the weight involved.
satisfactory installation. Information in this manual is supple- Weight of a bare unit, without base plate, driver or acces-
mented by the more detailed discussions of foundations and sories will range from about 1ton (910 kg) for the smallest to
piping in Compressed Air and Gas Handbook published by the approximately 7 tons (6350 kg). On such units, an eyebolt is
Compressed Air and Gas Institute, New York City. However,
4 | Dresser Roots
Table 1- Maximum Allowable Operating Conditions
Normal Clearances - RP68 Open Clearances - RP71
Frame Speed Pressure Rise Inlet Vacuum Temperature Rise Pressure Rise Inlet Vacuum Temperature Rise Approx.
Size RPM Wgt.
PSI kPa Inches Hg. kPa °F °C PSI kPa Inches Hg. kPa °F °C (lbs.)
1006 1800 15 103 15 50 205 114 20 138 16 54 280 156 1920
1009 15 103 12 40 205 114 20 138 16 54 280 156 2080
1012 15 103 12 40 205 114 18 124 16 54 280 156 2240
1016 12 83 12 40 148 82 13.3 92 16 54 240 133 2455
1018 11.7 80 12 40 148 82 11.7 92 16 54 240 133 2520
1021 10.4 71 12 40 148 82 10.4 71 16 54 240 133 2610
1024 9.2 63 12 40 148 82 9.2 63 16 54 240 133 3055
1030 7.3 50 12 40 148 82 7.3 50 16 50 240 133 3470
1212* 1500 15 103 16 54 223 124 20 138 16 54 270 150 3130
1216 16.5 113 16 54 223 124 16.5 138 16 54 270 150 3480
1220 12 83 12 40 148 82 13.2 91 16 54 235 131 3720
1222 11.7 80 12 40 148 82 11.7 80 16 54 235 131 3895
1225 10.5 72 12 40 148 82 10.5 72 16 54 235 131 4090
1228 9.2 63 12 40 148 82 9.2 63 16 54 235 131 4250
1236 7.3 50 12 40 148 82 7.3 50 15 50 235 131 4760
1414 1300 20 138 16 54 230 128 20 138 16 54 280 156 4700
1418 16.8 115 16 54 230 128 16.8 115 16 54 280 156 5000
1422 12.0 83 12 40 140 78 13.7 94 16 54 230 128 5330
1425 12.2 84 12 40 140 78 12.2 84 16 54 230 128 5500
1428 11.0 75 12 40 140 78 11.0 75 16 54 230 128 5800
1431 9.8 67 12 40 140 78 9.8 67 16 54 230 128 6060
1435 8.8 60 12 40 140 78 8.8 60 16 54 230 128 6350
1442 7.3 50 12 40 140 78 7.3 50 15 50 230 128 6920
1616* 1130 20 138 16 54 230 128 20 138 16 54 280 156 5700
1620* 17.6 121 16 54 230 128 17.6 121 16 54 280 156 6000
1625* 14.0 96 16 54 230 128 14.0 96 16 54 280 156 6300
1627 11.0 75 12 40 140 78 13.0 89 16 54 230 128 6600
1630 11.0 75 12 40 140 78 11.7 80 16 54 230 128 6850
1633 10.6 73 12 40 140 78 10.6 73 16 54 230 128 7250
1639 9.0 62 12 40 140 78 9.0 62 16 54 230 128 7800
1643* 8.2 56 12 40 140 78 8.2 56 16 54 230 128 8000
1648 7.3 50 12 40 140 78 7.3 50 15 50 230 128 8200
1821* 1000 18.8 129 16 54 230 128 18.8 129 16 54 280 156 7800
1824 16.5 113 16 54 230 128 16.5 113 16 54 280 156 8100
1827 14.6 100 16 54 230 128 14.6 100 16 54 280 156 8400
1830* 12.0 83 12 40 140 78 13.2 91 16 54 230 128 8850
1833 11.7 80 12 40 140 78 11.7 80 16 54 230 128 9300
1841 9.6 66 12 40 140 78 9.6 66 16 54 230 128 9750
1845 8.8 60 12 40 140 78 8.8 60 16 54 230 128 10100
1849* 8.0 55 12 40 140 78 8.0 55 16 54 230 128 10400
1854 7.3 50 12 40 140 78 7.3 50 15 50 230 128 10650
2022 900 19.6 135 16 54 225 125 20 138 16 54 280 156 9800
2026 16.6 114 16 54 225 125 16.6 114 16 54 280 156 10250
2033 12.0 83 12 40 135 75 13.0 89 16 54 225 125 11200
2037 11.0 75 12 40 135 75 11.7 80 16 54 225 125 11800
2040 11.0 75 12 40 135 75 11.0 75 16 54 225 125 12450
2044 10.0 68 12 40 135 75 10.0 68 16 54 225 125 13100
2050 8.8 60 12 40 135 75 8.8 60 16 54 225 125 13800
2055* 7.9 54 12 40 135 75 7.9 54 16 54 225 125 14300
2060 7.3 50 12 40 135 75 7.3 50 15 50 225 125 14750
*Sizes Not Available in RAS ** Bare Shaft Blower Weight
6 | Dresser Roots
are recommended. The bolts must be located as accurately Units mounted on soleplates are to be leveled in a similar man-
as possible from dimensions on certified installation drawing. ner. The plates should be large enough to provide extensions
To obtain a bolt location tolerance of 1/8" (3 mm), use of for leveling in both length and width on the finished upper
drilled templates firmly secured to the foundation forms is surfaces. Fasten the plates solidly to the blower feet, which are
recommended. machined flat and parallel to each other, then install and level
The bolt sleeves shown, if kept centered around the bolts the blower carefully, using jack screws, shims or wedges for
and free of concrete, will allow bolts to be sprung enough to adjusting.
correct for small variations in bolt setting and machine drilling. ALIGNMENT of the drive shafts when the blower unit and
The sleeves are filled in the final grouting operation. its driver are direct coupled requires careful attention. This
Figure 3 - Typical Anchor Bolt Detail precaution will not only help insure satisfactory coupling opera-
tion, but will minimize chances for damage to either driving or
driven unit from vibration or thrust forces.
In package units with driver and blower mounted on a
common baseplate, the two shafts will have been put in
approximate alignment at the factory. However, baseplate
deflections can occur during shipping and installation. A
close coupling alignment should be obtained during leveling,
so that only small final adjustments will need to be made
after grouting. In a soleplate type installation, the separately
mounted driver must be positioned, leveled and aligned as
part of the installation procedure. Whether it is on soleplates
or on its own base, shims of 1/16" to 1/8" (2-3 mm) thickness
Bolt positions should be adjusted vertically so that the top placed directly under the driver feet before setting will permit
ends will extend at least 1-1/2 diameters above the soleplate more accurate final alignment. Spacing between the two shaft
or taper washer, or as shown on the installation drawing. ends as required by the coupling must also be established. If a
Jack screws are provided to make leveling the height adjust- motor is being used that has end-play in the shaft, be sure its
ments easier. Steel plates, approximately 4" x 4" x 1/2" (100 x rotor is located on magnetic center before setting this spacing.
100x 13mm) should be placed on the foundation under each When blower is driven through V-belts, the driver must
jack screw location. Plates and anchor bolts are not furnished be mounted on an adjustable base to permit tightening or
as standard accessories. removing the belts. In this case the driver shaft height is of
LEVELING is very important and should be performed with no concern, but it must be parallel to the blower shaft and
care, using a good machinist’s level having a ground glass level. To position the driver properly, both sheaves need to be
bubble vial. A setting as level as possible in all directions is the mounted on their shafts, and the shaft center distance must be
result to be worked toward. known
When blower and driver have been factory mounted on a The blower sheave, usually the larger one in diameter, must be
common baseplate, the assembly is to be treated as a unit for of the narrow hub type. Install it so that its inner hub face is not
leveling purposes. Use the jack screws to establish grouting more than 1/4" (13 mm) away from the bearing housing end
space under the base flanges, and to level the base. Adjust cover. The driver sheave should also be mounted as close to
these screws until the indicated variation from level does not its bearing as possible. Now position the driver so that faces
exceed ,001" per foot (.08 mm per m) in either length or width. of the two sheaves are accurately in line, with the adjustable
Any variations should all be in the same direction, to minimize base so located as to make 2/3 of its total movement available
twist. The maximum allowable twist is considered to be in the direction away from the blower. This positioning provides
.001" per horizontal foot (.08 mm per horizontal m) measured minimum belt wear and slip, and allows sufficient adjustment
between any two sections of the base. for installation and tightening of belts. Do not install belts until
grouting has set and anchor bolts are tightened.
Table 2A – Standard Anchor Bolts in Inches Table 2B – Standard Anchor Bolts in (cm)
For Soleplates For Baseplates For Soleplates For Baseplates
Unit Unit
Frame Bolts Sleeves Bolts Sleeves Frame Bolts Sleeves Bolts Sleeves
Size Size
Dia. Lgth. I.D. Lgth. Dia. Lgth. I.D. Lgth. Dia. Lgth. I.D. Lgth. Dia. Lgth. I.D. Lgth.
1000 1 24 2 12 3/4 18 2-1/2 13 1000 2.4 60 5.0 30 2.0 46 6.5 33
1200 1 24 2 12 3/4 18 2-1/2 13 1200 2.4 60 5.0 30 2.0 46 6.5 33
1400 1-1/8 36 2-1/4 18 3/4 18 2-1/2 13 1400 3.0 90 6.5 46 2.0 46 6.5 33
1600 1-1/8 36 2-1/4 18 1 24 3 18 1600 3.0 90 6.5 46 2.4 60 8.0 46
1800 1-1/4 36 2-1/4 18 1 24 3 18 1800 3.0 90 6.5 46 2.4 60 8.0 46
2000 1-1/4 36 2-1/4 18 1 24 3 18 2000 3.0 90 6.5 46 2.4 60 8.0 46
Blowers intended for driving by V-belts may be provided with are likely to wear during machine operation, resulting in loose
an extended drive shaft and an additional outer bearing to anchor bolts. Final bolt tightening should be only enough to
handle the side pull of the drive. They may be recognized by hold the machine firmly against the foundation and prevent
the extended housing for the outer bearing. If necessary, these vibration.
units may also be used for direct coupling to the driver. Blowers After all anchor bolts are secured, recheck the blower for twist
intended specifically for direct coupling have no outer bearing, and level. Make corrections to meet the requirements specified
and may be seriously damaged if used for belt drive. Consult under LEVELING by shimming under the blower feet. Then
your Sales Office for approval before belting these units. rotate the drive shaft by hand to make sure both impellers turn
GROUTING follows completion of leveling and preliminary freely at all positions.
alignment. Assuming the foundation has been properly cured, When the blower is direct coupled to its driver, final alignment
its top surface should first be roughened by chip- ping to of the two shafts should be accomplished next by adjusting
remove glazed areas and oil or grease removed with a strong the shims under the driver feet. This needs to be done with
hot detergent or caustic solution. Grouting serves not only to the greatest possible care. Even though a flexible coupling can
compensate for surface irregularities in the foun- dation and accept some degree of misalignment, it should not be forced
machine base but also to provide restraint against shifting. to compensate for careless workmanship. The flexing or sliding
Anchor bolts are used for hold-down only. Therefore, the member in a coupling will transmit undesirable forces between
grout must be adequate thickness under the soleplate or the two shafts in proportion to the degree of misalignment, thus
base flange, must flow into anchor bolt sleeves and all interior promoting vibration and unnecessary wear problems.
cavities, and must have minimum shrinkage during the setting
MISALIGNMENT can be of two basic types, offset and
period. By virtue of the open frame design, it is recommended
angular, but usually it will be a combination of both. For
that the bedplate be filled with concrete to a level equal to the
satisfactory coupling operation it is recommended that the
top of the main channels. Special grouting materials designed
following limits be used: maximum deviation in offset alignment
to counteract shrinkage are commercially available. The
not greater than .005" (.I3mm) total indicator reading on the
manufacturer’s instructions should be followed in using these
coupling hubs; maximum deviation from parallel of the inside
materials. Care must be exercised when employing non-shrink
coupling faces not greater than .001" (.03 mm) when checked
additives with cement, as too much can be worse than none.
at six points. Where driver is a steam turbine the final alignment
Any gas forming or air-entraining additives should be avoided
should be made at operating temperature in order to allow for
completely, since they tend to reduce grout strength.
shaft movement resulting from expansion.
Wait at least 24 hours before tightening anchor bolts or
A coupling that has been Factory installed as part of a pre-
connecting any piping. When jack screws have been used for
assembled package should receive the same final alignment
leveling, make sure the bottom of the leveling screw is treated
check as outlined above. It will need to be disassembled by
according to grout manufacturer’s instructions so that leveling
removing cover bolts, drawing back the two cover halves,
screw can be backed off. Such points of concentrated loading
Figure 5 – Rotation and Discharge, Vertical and Horizontal RAS/RAS Whispair™ Blowers
Vertical Horizontal
8 | Dresser Roots
and removing the internal member. In some cases the latter of 0.063" diameter for 12" pipe, 0.080" diameter for 16" pipe,
item may have been packed separately for shipment. After 0.105" diameter for 20" pipe, and 0.120" diameter for 24" pipe.
necessary adjustments for alignment are completed, lubricate For 30" and 36" pipe use 1 mesh backing cloth with a minimum
the coupling with grease as specified by its manufacturer and of .180" wire diameter for 36" pipe. The table below gives
assemble. approximate screen pressure drop. A manometer connected
A belt-driven installation should require no realignment if all to read pressure drop across the screen will indicate when
items were correctly positioned and leveled before grouting. it needs cleaning. Do not allow pressure drop to exceed 55
Belts may be installed now by adjusting driver position toward inches H2O. Clean and replace the screen until debris no
the blower sufficiently to permit belts to be laid in their sheave longer appears. Do not leave the screen installed permanently,
groves easily. Do not pry or roll them into place. Before doing as the wire will eventually deteriorate and pieces may go into
this, inspect all grooves for burrs, rough spots or oil that might the blower causing serious damage. (Typically, screens are
shorten belt life. If equipment is not to be operated immediately, installed for 1-2 days of operation).
leave the belts slack. Discharge piping requires a pressure relief valve, and should
Proper tensioning of the drive for operation should be done in also include a suitable pressure gauge and unloading valve. The
accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations, keeping in latter permits starting under no-load conditions. The optional
mind that excessive tension can seriously overload shaft bear- back pressure regulator shown in Figure 6 will be required
ings and also lead to premature drive failure. Undertensioning if volume demands vary while blower operates at constant
can produce slippage, with consequent loss of blower capacity speed. It may blow off to atmosphere if only air is being
in addition to belt damage. handled. In a gas installation the regulator will probably need to
be located in a by-pass loop back to the blower inlet. However,
Make sure at this point that driver rotation is correct to produce
the volume of gas that may be continuously circulated will be
the blower shaft rotation indicated by an arrow near the shaft.
limited by heat build-up, which can cause blower damage.
The Whispair blowers are not reversible, hence drive shaft
Refer such application problems to the nearest Sales Office for
rotation and discharge flange location are predetermined
recommendations on installation of a by-pass cooler.
in manufacturing assembly. Figure 5 page 8 illustrates the
assembly options available by specification on original order, to In some installations, particularly where two or more blowers
meet piping and drive requirements. discharge into a common header, it is recommended that a
direct acting or free swinging check valve be provided in each
PIPING must be clean, and not smaller in size than the
discharge line. These valves, properly installed protect against
blower connections. A good rule-of-thumb is that the air or
damage resulting from reverse rotation caused by back flow
gas line velocity should not exceed 75 feet (23 m) per second.
through an idle blower.
Where possible, use long radius elbows to insure smooth flow.
Design the piping layout so that no strains are placed In making pipe connections to the blower, use special care in
on the blower, either from weight or expansion forces. lining up the mating flanges. They must contact squarely and
This means providing adequate supports, anchors, and accurately, without imposing strain on the blower casing. Any
expansion joints or loops. attempt to draw flanges together by force will probably distort
the blower and cause internal contacts. Also, the blower should
Installation of a spool-type rubber expansion joint near the
not carry more than the weight of one pipe fitting at each
blower inlet connection is recommended. A similar unit with
connection. After bolting up the flanges, rotate the drive shaft
control elements added to minimize piping vibrations may
by hand to check for rubbing contacts caused by strains or dirt.
be required near the discharge. Use of SNUBBERS or
SILENCERS in the inlet or discharge piping will be dependent An oil cooler is standard equipment on all pressure lubricated
on such factors as blower speed, operating pressure, length gas blowers and some air blowers. Therefore, cooling water
and kind of piping, and consideration of sound level require- supply and return piping may be required. To maintain normal
ments in the general surroundings. Whispair blowers operate at oil temperatures during operation, the supply water temperature
generally lower noise levels than conventional lobe-type units. should not exceed 85° F (29° C).
For specific silencer recommendations refer to the nearest
Sales Office.
Approximate Screen Pressure Drop, Inches H2O
Inlet piping should be completely free of valves or restrictions, (16 Mesh, .020" Wire Dia.)
but when a shut-off valve cannot be avoided, make sure a
Flow Pipe Diameter (Inches)
full size vacuum relief valve is installed near the blower inlet
(ACFM) 12" 16" 20" 24" 30" 36"
connection. This will protect against an overload caused by
accidental valve closing. Even in a gas installation this relief 2,500 3.0 1.1 0.3 0.3
valve protection is essential. Further protection can be provided 5,000 12.7 3.9 1.7 0.8
by installation of a dependable pressure sensitive device with 10,000 15.5 6.4 3 1.3
alarm or shutdown action. 15,000 14.4 7.2 2.8 1.4
During initial operation, install a temporary corrosion resistant 20,000 12.7 5.1 2.4
screen at the compressor inlet connection. Screen should be 30,000 11.4 5.5
made of 16 mesh (.020" diameter) wire backed with 2 mesh 45,000 12.3
wire cloth. Backing cloth-wire diameter shall be a minimum
Belt Pull (Lbs.) = (275,000 X Motor HP) / (Blower RPM X Sheave Diameter)
Shaft Load (Lb.-In.) = Belt Pull X (A + ?" (+ or – E see below *) + Sheave width / 2)
* Subtract “E” if sheave type 1 is used, Add “E” if sheave type 2 is used.
10 | Dresser Roots
Figure 6 – RAS-J Installation with Accessories
12 | Dresser Roots
accumulated oil. There are two plugs to be removed at each Table 4 - Oil Sump Capacities
end of the blower.
Approx. Capacity in Gallons (Liters)
If mechanical face seals are used under conditions where the Frame Series
Vertical Horizonal
static gas pressure at the blower inlet is above atmo-
spheric, it will be necessary to prevent seal leakage during 1000 5-1/4 (20) 7-1/2 (28)
normal shut-down periods by maintaining continuous oil 1200 7-3/4 (29) 10-3/4 (41)
pressure at the faces of all seals. This can be accomplished 1400 10-3/4 (41) 14-1/2 (55)
by installing an independently driven oil pump, properly 1600 15 (57) 20 (76)
connected into the main oil system as indicated in Figure 7.
1800 19-1/2 (74) 25-1/4 (96)
Operation of the auxiliary pump is under control of a pres- 2000 23 (87) 30-3/4 (116)
sure switch in the blower oil distribution piping, normally set
to cut in at 8 PSIG (55 kPa) and cut out at 12 PSIG (83 kPa). changes may be necessary if the blower is in a very dusty or
A pressure relief valve set at 10 PSIG (69kPa) should be contaminated environment. The use of Roots synthetic oil can
installed in a by-pass around the pump. The auxiliary pump extend life up to 8 times that of mineral oil. Testing of oil should
must run continuously while gas pressure remains in the be used to determine change intervals. It may be advisable to
blower. A second pressure switch is furnished as part of the check oil condition each time the weekly level check is made,
auxiliary pump package, to protect the blower against low oil until a regular change period can be determined. At each oil
pressure during normal operation. Set to operate at 5 PSIG change, remove and thoroughly clean the strainer screen in the
(34kPa) and 9 PSIG (62 kPa), one contact is used to stop the oil sump.
blower motor at the low pressure setting. Another contact
On type RGS/RGS Whispair units also replace the cartridge in
may be used to operate an alarm at the same time.
each oil line filter at oil change periods in order to protect the
For RGS units with discharge pressure greater than 10 PSIG mechanical shaft seal faces. These seals may leak a certain
consult factory for proper setting. amount of oil in normal operation, which will collect in a cham-
Lubricating oil viscosity should be selected from Table 3 ber in each headplate under the lower shaft (under both shafts
for the existing ambient temperature range. Fill the blower in a horizontal unit). The oil levels in these chambers should not
oil sump through the breather pipe to the upper gauge line be allowed to reach the labyrinth shaft seal openings.
before starting operation, and recheck the level soon after Therefore, when an RGS/RGS Whispair blower is shut down,
the first start-up. If it falls below the lower gauge line, add remove the pipe plugs and drain any accumulated oil from
sufficient oil to bring it back to the upper line. During the these chambers. Experience will indicate the frequency of
first week of normal blower operation the oil level should be draining required. Be sure to shut off the gas supply to the
checked daily. Thereafter a weekly check probably will be blower before removing the drain plugs.
sufficient. Do not permit the level to drop below the lower
Lip seal oil leakage on RASIRAS Whispair -Some oil seal leak-
gauge line, nor go above the upper line. Use only non-de-
age will occur at the drive shaft seal and the headplate seals
tergent premium grade lubricant with foam, oxidation, and
since an oil film under the lip is required for proper operation.
rust inhibitors. The use of Roots synthetic oil is highly rec
Periodically, the leaked oil should be wiped off from the blower
ommended.
as well as base plate surfaces, since even a small amount of
Table 3 - Recommended Lubricating Oils leaked oil spreads over a large area making the leakage look
worse than actual.
Ambient Temperature ISO Viscosity Range
On a unit with cooler, the maximum oil temperature to
32° to 120°F (O° 49°C) 200
bearings and gears should not be higher than 120° F (49° C).
Below 32°F (18°C) 100 Oil returning to the sump will then normally be at about 160°
All RGS - Use ISO-VG-100 F (71° C) or less. These conditions can be maintained only if
the cooler tube bundle is not allowed to become fouled with
Oil should be changed after the first 100 hours of operation.
deposits from the cooling water, and if the water temperature
After the initial oil change, an oil change frequency of 2000
is less than 85° F (29° C). Rate of water flow required can be
hours would be considered normal. More frequent oil
expected to be between 3 to 10 GPM.
14 | Dresser Roots
Troubleshooting Checklist
Trouble Item Possible Cause Remedy
No Flow 1 Speed too low Check by tachometer and compare with speed on Roots Order Acknowledgment
2 Wrong Rotation Compare actual rotation with Figure 4 or 5. Change driver if wrong.
3 Obstruction in piping Check piping, screen, valves, silencer, to assure open flow path.
Low Capacity 4 Speed too low See item 1. If belt drive, check for slippage and readjust tension.
5 Excessive pressure rise Check inlet vacuum and discharge pressure, and compare these figures with
specified operating conditions on order.
6 Obstruction in piping See item 3.
7 Excessive slip Check inside of casing for worn or eroded surfaces causing excessive clearances
Excessive Power 8 Speed too high Check speed and compare with Roots Order Acknowledgement.
9 Excessive pressure rise See item 5.
10 Impellers rubbing Inspect outside of cylinder for high temperature areas, then check for impeller
contact at these points. Look for excessive scale build-up. Correct blower
mounting, drive alignment.
Overheating of 11 Inadequate lubrication Check oil pressure, oil sump level and condition of oil.
Bearings of Gears 12 Excessive lubrication Check oil pressure, oil sump level and condition of oil.
13 Excessive pressure rise See item 5.
14 Coupling misalignment Check carefully. Realign if questionable.
15 Excessive belt tension Readjust for correct tension.
Vibration 16 Misalignment See item 14.
17 Impellers rubbing See item 10.
18 Worn bearings/gears Check gear backlash and condition of bearings, and replace as indicated.
19 Unbalanced or rubbing Scale or process material may build up on casing and impellers, or inside impel-
impellers lers. Remove build-up to restore original clearances and impeller balance.
20 Driver or blower loose Tighten mounting bolts securely.
21 Piping resonances Determine whether standing wave pressure pulsations are present in the piping.
Refer to Sales Office.
Oil in Process 22 See discussion of sealing under LUBRICATION.
Safety Precautions
For equipment covered specifically or indirectly in this instruc- • Stay clear of the blast from pressure relief valves and the
tion book, it is important that all personnel observe safety suction area of vacuum relief valves.
precautions to minimize the chances of injury. Among many • Avoid extended exporsure in close proximity to machin-
considerations, the following should particularly be noted: ery with high intensity noise levels.
• Blower casing and associated piping or accessories • Use proper care and good procedures in handling. lifting,
may become hot enough to cause major skin burns on installing, operating and maintaining the equipment.
contact.
• Casing pressure must not exceed 25 PSI (172 kPa)
• Internal and external rotating parts of the blower and gauge. Do not pressurize vented cavities from an
driving equipment can produce serious physical inju- external source, nor restrict the vents.
ries. Do not reach into any openings in the blower while
it is operating, or while subject to accidental starting. • Do not use air blowers on explosive or hazardous gases.
Cover external moving parts with adequate guards. • Other potential hazards to safety may also be associated
• Disconnect power before doing any work, and avoid by- with operation of this equipment. All personnel working
passing or rendering inoperative any safety or protective in or passing through the area should be warned by
devices. signs and trained to exercise adequate general safety
precautions.
• If blower is operated with piping disconnected, place a
strong coarse screen over the inlet and avoid standing in
the inlet or discharge air stream.
16 | Dresser Roots
Rotary Lobe Blower Vibrations 5. Rotor unbalance and bent shaft will generate vibrations
at 1XRPM.
The general vibration severity charts derived from Rathbone
vibration severity charts provide guidelines for machines 6. Blower/driver coupling misalignment will generate
basically having mass unbalance (turbomachinery, electric vibrations at 1XRPM and 2XRPM.
motors, etc.) The German specification VDI 2056 - Criteria 7. Acoustic resonance in the blower inlet/discharge piping
for Assessing Mechanical Vibrations of Machines - provides will generate vibrations at 4XRPM.
vibration guide lines for machines with rotating masses
8. Operation of rotary lobe blower at or near system tor-
(turbomachinery) and machines having mass effects which
sionals may cause impeller lobe contact and increases
cannot be balanced (reciprocating machines), but does
vibrations.
not specifically address rotary lobe blowers (also known as
ROOTS Blowers) with inherent fluctuating dynamic bearing 9. External piping if not properly isolated will transmit
loads and torques. vibrations into the blower.
API Standard 619, Rotary Type Positive Displacement 10. Foundation design and method of mounting has
Compressors for General Refinery Services, limits the considerable effect on blower vibrations.
vibration level to 0.1 in/sec peak, which is quite ambitious. Vibration Criteria:
Based on experience, practical acceptable vibration levels 1. Units of measurement: Rotary lobe blower vibrations
lie somewhere between API 619 requirement and VDI 2056 are measured in inches/sec. Measurements of spike
allowance for group D reciprocating machines. energy is not recommended for judging blower condition
Elements Generating Vibrations in Rotary Lobe Blower: because the rotary lobe blower has inherent impacting
bearing loads.
1. Blower inherent characteristic -
2. Measurement location: Vibrations should be measured
a. Impacting bearing loads excite component/system
at the bearing locations on the housing.
natural frequencies.
The following table provides an appropriate assessment
b. Pressure pulsations set up vibrations at four times the
guideline for rotary lobe blowers rigidly mounted on the stiff
running speed.
foundations.
2. Rotary lobe blowers use very close clearances between
Unfiltered Vibrations Assessment
the impellers and the housing. The impeller contact will
(in/sec peak)
setup vibrations as follows:
<0.45 Very Good
a. Impeller to impeller frontal lobe contact - if contact is
between only one set of lobes, the vibration frequency >0.45 to 0.62 Good
will be 1XRPM, if both sets of lobes contact, the >0.62 thru 1.0 Satisfactory
vibration frequency will be 2X RPM. >1.0 Review Required
b. Impeller to cylinder contact - the vibration frequency If the blower is operating at “review required” levels then the
will depend on the number of impeller tips contacting installation must be fully evaluated to determine the source or
the cylinder which could range from one to four times cause of vibration and the cause shall be corrected.
the RPM.
In general, blower vibration levels should be monitored on a
c. Impeller to head plate contact - the vibration regular basis and the vibration trend observed for progressive
frequency will be erratic and unsteady. or sudden change in level. If such a change occurs, the
3. Damaged gears will generate vibrations at mesh cause should be determined through spectral analysis.
frequency, number of teeth times RPM. The blower vibrations will be transmitted into the motor,
4. Damaged bearings will generate vibrations at ball pass speed reducer etc. and more so if they are mounted on the
frequency, fundamental train frequency and ball spin common blower baseplate. Allowable vibration levels into
frequency. these accessories should be obtained from the vendors.
Average temperature = (212 + 357) / 2 = 284.5°F After the initial run of the blower:
This exceeds the 250°F rule, so the temperature rise 1. Stop the blower and connect the inlet piping to the
must be limited to: steam supply. Close and lock the starting vent valve (9),
18 | Dresser Roots
or remove it, and blank off the opening. Open the normal Figure 9 - Barometric Seal Leg
starting bypass valve (7).
2. In a vapor re-compression system, the evaporator,
compressor (blower), piping and condenser equipment
must be purged of air (non-condensables) before startup
of the main compressor. In order to assure this fact, the
system requires steam to be supplied in the evaporator
area so it flows through the compressor and piping to an
air/steam vent on the far end of the condenser. An inlet
thermometer and a casing temperature switch are rec-
ommended to partially assure that the system is purged
prior to startup. The casing temperature should be within
10°F of the purge steam saturation temperature.
3. Restart the blower (start the inlet water spray if appli-
cable). After the blower reaches full speed, start closing
the bypass valve fairly rapidly.
4. Observe the discharge pressure gauge as the bypass
valve is closed, and do not allow the pressure or
temperature to exceed the rating of the blower as
specified under Limitations.
20 | Dresser Roots
Segment Waist Clearances (continued)
22 | Dresser Roots
rings, on the collar tapers, and on the gear hub outside Figure 12 - Taper Gear Remover
diameters.
2. Slide each tapered ring collar and the web clearance
holes and screw them loosely into the opposite collar.
3. Do not tighten screws at this time.
4. DEGREASE GEAR HUB BORE AND SHAFT. THE
GEARFIT MUST BE FREE OF ANY LUBRICANT.
5. Line up the gear - to shaft, push the gears on flush with
the shaft end. Make sure that the gear match marks line
up. Take any 3 or 4 locking screws equally spaced and
snug them up.
6. Set impeller timing as described under Step 4 of
Operation C.
7. Once satisfactory timing is achieved, locking screws
are to be tightened to Table 7 values, using a calibrated
torque wrench. Tighten all locking screws gradually
and all the way around in either clockwise or counter-
clockwise sequence, but not in diametrically opposite
sequence. Tighten screws half a turn at a time. Check
and make sure that no screw will turn any more by Figure 13 - Gear Remover Material - Steel, Hardness - Rc-25
applying specified torque.
Table 7 - Torque Wrench Data
Gear
Gear Stub Shaft
Capscrew
Frame Size Capscrew Screws Lb-Ft
Torque Values
Size - Metric (kg-M)
Lb-Ft (kg-M)
1000 M8 (4.2) 30 45 (6)
1200 M8 (4.2) 30 75 (10)
1400 M10 (8.3) 53 75 (10)
1600 M10 (8.3) 60 105 (15)
1800 M12 (13.8) 100 105 (15)
some oil comes through the open hole bleeding all air
2002 M16 (33.2) 240 250 (35) out. Close the top hole with 1/4 NPT solid steel plug.
Crank the pump up till the gear comes off. Do not
10" TAPER BORE GEAR REMOVAL PROCEDURE exceed 20,000 PSI oil pressure. If not sure how to use
the hydraulic removal system, contact factory.
1. Remove the gear nut and lock washer.
10" TAPER BORE GEAR INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
2. Install Gear Remover within 1/8th inch of the gear face.
This gap is necessary to unseat gear from the shaft 1. Block the impellers inside the blower using wooden
taper. blocks/wedges.
3. Apply Neverseez on 3/4-10X3" long, grade 8 capscrew 2. Degrease gear bore and shaft taper. THESE
threads and under hex heads. SURFACES MUST BE FREE OF OIL.
4. Install capscrews through gear remover holes into the 3. Screw the inside ring onto the shaft, snug it up against
gear puller holes. the gear by hand.
5. Tighten these capscrews quarter turn at a time in either 4. Slide outside ring onto the inside ring.
clockwise or counter-clockwise sequence, but not 5. Apply Neverseez on the threads and under the head of
diametrically opposite sequence, till the gear is unseated the installation capscrews. Install the capscrews finger
from the taper. tight.
6. If the gear does not come off using above method, use 6. Install indicator on the gear outside face for measuring
hydraulic assist feature provided in the gear in addition the gear axial movement.
to the above. Hydraulic pump capable of generating 7. Tighten each screw quarter turn at a time in either clock-
about 20,000 PSI pressure is required. Make sure all wise or counter-clockwise sequence, but not diametrically
tubing and fittings are good for 40,000 PSI. The gear opposite sequence, till the outer ring is solid against the
connections are 1/4 NPT. Hook up pump to bottom inside ring. THE GEAR SHOULD MOVE .065 to .075”.
con-nection. Leave top hole open. Crank the pump till
Note: There are two fronts and two backs clearances in one complete revolution.
24 | Dresser Roots
3. Dismount drive and remove drive end cover (5) and/ or Seal Installation Guide
(58), using care with seal (23).
4. Remove bearing locknuts (24) and lockwashers (25),
using a spanner wrench.
5. Remove bearing clamp plates (8).
6. Pull drive end bearing carriers with bearings and seals
as on gear end. Shims (17) under the flanges should
be kept in order and identified for replacing the same
positions.
E - REPLACING LIP SEALS (RAS/RAS WHISPAIR)
1. Check shafts for surface finish of 10-16 micro-inch (.3 to
.4 micrometers) RMS in seal contact area, and for good
condition at bearing locations. Carefully remove any
burrs or sharp corners, but do no attempt refinishing.
The seals are “Directional, Hydrodynamic”, which
means for proper sealing they are completely dependent
on the direction of the shaft rotation. In each seal kit,
there are:
(2) Clockwise (CW) “Blue coated” seals for inboard seal
replacement
2 Remove bearings and seals from carriers. If new seals
(2) Counter-Clockwise (CCW) “Red coated” seals for are to be installed, remove cast iron seat rings and
inboard seal replacement their internal O-rings from shafts. Clean and inspect the
(1) Reversible (CW/CCW) “Green coated” seal for drive shaft carrier bores and replace the external O-rings, but do
seal replacement not reinstall carriers.
(1) Protective Sleeve Tool (Inboard seals) 3 Inspect the seal assembly. Be certain that the lapped
(1) Protective Sleeve Tool (Drive shaft seal) sealing faces of both iron and carbon rings are abso-
lutely free of scratches and foreign material.
Figure 18 - Same as Figure 14 Except Shows 4 Wipe these faces clean with “Sight Saver” silicone
RAS/RGS Whispair Cylinder treated tissue and apply a thin coating of clean lubricat-
ing oil. Also coat the O-rings in these two parts with
the same oil. Install the cast iron rings on the shafts,
using a tapered thimble to prevent damage to the
O-ring on shaft shoulders or threads. Be sure that all
rings seat against their shaft shoulders, and that the
driving pins are properly positioned between a pair of
shaft flange screw heads. Slip the carbon washer and
spring assemblies into the back recesses of the bearing
carriers. The projections on the retainers must drop into
the holes provided in the carriers. Protect the carbon
face with clean soft paper. Recheck all seal faces. It is of
CAUTION: FOR SEALS TO PERFORM PROPERLY
the utmost importance that these faces have not been
• Use careful handling procedures so not to damage marred in any way, and that they have not collected any
seals during installation. Must use the installation sleeves foreign material during Steps 5 and 6. Install all bearing
provided in kit as shown Under Final Assembly. Seal lips carriers in their headplates, with the drive end shims in
are not very flexible and will tear or become damaged if original locations behind the carrier flanges. Finish the
not installed properly. assembly as outlined in “Final Assembly”.
• Shaft surface must be clean and free of scratches with a F - FINAL ASSEMBLY
finish between 10 to 20 RMS.
1. Install all bearings. Making sure they are up tight against
• Seals must stay on shipping rings until time of installa- their respective shaft shoulders. Work on gear end
tion, or the seal lips will deform over time. bearings first and press them info place by using proper
2. Finish the assembly as outlined in “Final Assembly”. installation tools. The impellers will be driven against
F -Replacing Face Seals (RGS/RGS WHISPAIR) the opposite headplate. Then remove shims (17) from
behind both drive end bearing carrier flanges and press
1 Check shafts for 45 (1.1 micrometers) RMS finish, inspect
the bearings at this end into place against their shaft
bearing seats, and remove burrs or sharp corners.
shoulders.
26 | Dresser Roots
Inboard Seal Installation and Drive Shaft Seal Installation Repair Kit Information For RAS/RGS Lube Blowers
10" - 20"
Ref. Qty. Part Description
17 1 Shim Set
18 2 Gasket
19 1 Gasket
20 4 0 Ring
23 1 Seal, Drive Shaft
24 2 Locknut, Bearing
25 2 Lockwasher, Bearing - Except 10"
27 4 Seal, Headplate
31 Varies Bearings
42 1 set Capscrews
80 2 Bearings
When ordering repair and seal kits, specify blower size and type and serial
number.
Figure 19
30 | Dresser Roots
Figure 21 - Assembly of Basic 10" Vertical Blower
Dresser Roots
Houston, Texas Headquarters • U.S. Toll Free Phone: 1 877-363-ROOT(S) (7668) • Direct Phone: +1 832-590-2600
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©2010 Dresser, Inc. All rights reserved. • Printed in the U.S.A. • All information subject to
change without notice. • Roots, Wayne, Waukesha, Masoneilan and Consolidated are registered
trademarks of Dresser, Inc. • ROOTS, RAM and WHISPAIR are trademarks of Dresser, Inc.