MACHINE FOUNDATIONS FOR POWER PLANT: SOME DESIGN ISSUES WITH REAL TIME EXAMPLES

The power generating industry is undergoing an unprecedented reform. Improvement in power plant has provided machines of higher rating with better stability and increased running life. Proposed soil characteristics represent the most important physical-mechanical parameters for foundation engineering purposes. The use of historical data, improved designed techniques with provisions for earthquake condition by Civil Engineers can enhance durability and running time of heavy machineries. This paper highlights some design issues with real time examples, need for a better interaction between foundation designer and machine maintenance engineer to ensure improved machine performance. Also provides knowledge about the foundation related problems and its percentage share on the partially or fully non availability of equipments in the overall power plant.