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$ECANTER )NSTALLATION -ANUAL

1
 The instructions given in this manual are intended as a
general for installation of Alfa Laval Decanters

Alfa Laval reserves the right to make changes at any time without prior notice.

Any comments regarding possible errors and omissions or suggestions for improvement
of this publication would be gratefully appreciated. Please forward this information to the
address below.

If further clarification regarding this manual is required, please contact your local Alfa Laval
representative.

Copies of this publication can be ordered from your local Alfa Laval Company.

Published by:
Alfa Laval Copenhagen A/S
Maskinvej 5
DK-2860 Søborg
Denmark

© Copyright Alfa Laval Copenhagen A/S

This manual and its content must not be copied, reproduced, transmitted or disclosed to
any third party without consent of Alfa Laval Copenhagen A/S
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Table of Contents – April 24, 2017 1

Decanter Installation Manual

Introduction
The following symbols in this manual point out safety precautions. It means your
attention is needed and your safety is involved.

WARNING
This symbol is used to indicate the presence of a hazard, which can or will
cause severe personal injury, if the warning is ignored.

CAUTION
Certain passages of the text will be marked with a caution mark. This mark
indicates the presence of hazard, which will or can cause property damage
if the instructions are not observed.

NOTE
This symbol is used to indicate the presence of a hazard, which can or will
cause severe personal injury, if the warning is ignored.

This manual forms part of a set of manuals including Operators Manual and Spare
Parts Catalogue. The three volumes contain the necessary information for installa-
tion, operation and maintenance of Alfa Laval decanters.
The Installation manual contains the requirements to the installation of an Alfa Laval
decanter, so it can be operated safely and reliably.
The instructions are based on legal and functional requirements and the experience
gained during the time Alfa Laval has manufactured decanters. To distinguish
between a mandatory requirement and a requirement it is strongly recommended to
follow (good engineering practice) the word “shall” is used for the former whereas
“should” is used for the latter.

2 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

Failure to follow the instructions may lead to unsafe operation, malfunction,

increased operational costs, inadequate service and reduced lifetime.

WARNING
• The instructions do not cover measures to avoid
• hazards from processing corrosive and or erosive materials
• hazards specific to processing radioactive products
• hazards specific to microbiological processing - including viral
and parasitic hazards
• hazards from processes involving flammable or explosive sub-
stances
• hazards caused by leakage of hazardous substances
• hazards caused by unsuitable hygienic design for applications
involving food products
• inherent chemical hazards of process materials and/or service
media and their biological effects on exposed persons

The instructions do not cover the requirements associated with the installation of
sealed decanters requiring gas for purging and/or sealing.
If more information than found in this instruction is required, do not hesitate to con-
tact the nearest Alfa Laval office.

Rev. 00 3
Decanter Installation Manual

Installation Requirements
Safety
During the installation, general legal accident prevention specifications and opera-
tional safety regulations are to be observed.
All equipment (mechanical, electrical) to be installed in a way to eliminate as far as
possible mechanical, thermal, electrical, health, ergonomic and acoustic hazards.
All electrical equipment to be installed according to valid national and international
laws and regulations and connected by authorized personnel only.

Foundation
The decanter shall be securely fastened to a concrete floor, a base frame or steel
structure. Both the fastening means and the supporting structure shall be able to
withstand the maximum static and dynamic loads from the decanter which are stated
on the General Arrangement Drawing (GA Drawing) for the decanter.
The maximum static and dynamic loads are equally distributed on each of the vibra-
tion isolators of the decanter main frame unless otherwise specified on the GA Draw-
ing.
The maximum dynamic foundation loads are caused by liquid-induced vibrations
which may occur at slow start up and run down of a decanter with a liquid filled or
partly liquid filled bowl. These loads occur at decanter bowl rotational speed
between 300 and 1000 rpm, depending on decanter size. These loads need to be
added to the static loads.
The size of bolts used to fasten the decanter to the floor/base frame/steel structure
shall correspond to the bolt holes on the vibration isolators as shown on the GA
Drawing. Anchoring to concrete floors shall be according to local building standards.

NOTE
Do not place other machinery in the same area as the decanter in
such a way that vibrations or dynamic forces can be transmitted to the
decanter.

Structures and platforms for decanter installations shall have sufficiently high stiff-
ness at the attachment points for the decanter in order to avoid transmission of vibra-
tions from the decanter to the structure. Vertical deflection directly below the
attachment points for the decanter at the vibration isolators shall be limited to 1 mm
when subjected to the static load from the decanter stated on the GA drawing. The
horizontal stiffness of the platform shall be of the same magnitude as the vertical
stiffness. The structures shall be free from fundamental structural resonances at fre-
quencies within the speed range of the decanter.

4 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

If a decanter is installed in a seagoing vessel it shall be installed lengthwise amid-

ships to keep the forces from the movements of the vessel on the decanter as low
as possible.

Space and Lifting Requirements

All access ways should be of adequate width to allow the passage of necessary
transport equipment (trolleys, fork lifts etc.) Doors and passageways should be suf-
ficiently dimensioned to allow enough space for transport of the decanter to the
place of installation and to and from repair facilities.
Adequate space should be allowed to accommodate removal of the feed tube (see
the GA Drawing).
If a decanter is installed under an acoustic enclosure (noise hood) this should be
designed so the above criteria are met.
Allow adequate floor space around the decanter for work benches, tools, dismantled
and new parts, transport trolleys and lifting equipment.
It should be ensured that the rotating assembly can be removed from the installation
area to a workshop/service area with enough space to be able to remove the con-
veyor from the bowl.
In order to be able to lift all the rotating assembly as well as major parts such as
motors or gearbox at the centre of gravity a crane/hoist moveable in two horizontal
directions is preferable

Rev. 00 5
Decanter Installation Manual

6 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

If only one direction is possible it shall be directly above the axis of the decanter.

Rev. 00 7
Decanter Installation Manual

WARNING
Do not use a crane that only runs transversely. For safety reasons a
rotating unit shall always be lifted directly over its centre of gravity to
be sure it is lifted in a horizontal position. The centre of gravity of the
rotating unit is in different positions if the bowl is empty or liquid is left
in the bowl or if the gearbox has been removed. A crane that only runs
transversely cannot be used to remove the gearbox or the motors
should it become necessary.

If no permanent lifting equipment is installed lifting gear to remove the bowl from the
frame a safe and adequate lifting device shall be used.

Noise Emission and Sound

Information about the measured noise emitted from the decanter and the free sound
pressure level can be found in the noise declaration which is included in the Opera-
tor’s Manual for the decanter.
The noise is declared as the total sound power emitted from the decanter when the
decanter is operated with closed outlets and water as a process medium. Upon
request detailed noise emission information for a specific decanter can be obtained
from Alfa Laval.

8 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

The declared noise emission data and sound pressure levels are based on free field
conditions and in a normal indoor installation higher sound pressure levels can be
expected.
The sound pressure level at an operating decanter normally will exceed the limits for
long time exposure 80 dB(A) and short time exposure 85 dB(A) and therefore hear-
ing protection must always be used in the near vicinity of an operating decanter.
Therefore, there shall be visible signs at the entrance ways to the installation which
warns about this risk. Hearing protection shall be provided for all persons entering
or working in the decanter installation.
In order to minimise the sound pressure level around the decanter the following
measures can be taken.

NOTE
• Install the decanter in a large room with low sound reflection from
the walls and the ceiling and if needed apply sound absorbing
material to the walls and the ceiling
• Avoid installation in small rooms with sound reflecting walls close
to the decanter
• Always install the decanter with closed outlets in order to reduce
windage noise from the decanter
• Ensure that any electrical conduits, piping or air ducts which are
connected to the decanter do not radiate significant amounts of
sound energy

Floor, Walls and Ceiling

The floor shall be suitable for the application in which the decanter is going to be
used (waste water, food production, chemicals, etc.), have suitable drainage capac-
ity and non-slip surface.
The surface of the walls and the ceiling should be suitable for the application taking
the noise reflection characteristics into account as stated above.

Piping and Ducting

The connection between all external piping and the connections on the decanter
shall be by flexible compensators. They shall be able to compensate for vibration
amplitudes of +/- 5 mm (0.2 inch) in any direction. The compensators shall be of the
same internal diameter/size as the connections on the decanter as shown on the GA
Drawing. Any diameter change in the connecting piping shall take place before the
compensator and not directly on the connection to the decanter.
Make sure high quality industrial hose compensator and fittings suited for the actual
pressures and application are used.
Make sure all mechanical, chemical, hygienic and requirements related to the appli-
cation as well as cleaning agents (acids, lye, solvents, CIP liquids) are met when

Rev. 00 9
Decanter Installation Manual

selecting compensator and that they are suited for the pressures they may be sub-
ject to.
Take care not to bend or stress compensators.

Feed Inlet
Constant feed quantity should be ensured through adjustable and application suit-
able pumps.
Constant feed concentration should be ensured by avoiding settling in feed or hold-
ing tanks.
If there is any risk of fast settling material in the feed to the decanter an efficient sand
trap or cyclone should be installed to prevent this material from entering the
decanter, where it can lead to high wear or severely obstruct the conveying capabil-
ity of the decanter.
For plants comprising more than one decanter, each decanter should have its own
feed line with its own feed pump. A common pump and branching (with or without)
flow regulating valves may lead to uneven solids distribution and negatively affect
the separation performance of the decanters. Especially with different feed line
lengths and or low flow rates where settling in a feed line may occur.
The GA Drawing states the dimensions for the feed tube connection. Do never use
smaller diameters in the feed line.
Make sure there are no low points or dead spaces in feed lines where solids can
accumulate during periods without feed flow.
The piping including the position of the compensator should be done is such a way
the removal of the feed tube does require as little disassembly as possible.

10 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

For decanters supplied with a connection for addition of polymer to the feed directly
at the feed tube, all the same criteria as above apply. I.e. dimension, material quality,
the use of a flexible connector, pressure resistance etc.
Fit a sample point in the feed line as close as possible to the feed tube but before
external polymer addition.

Flushing and Cleaning In Place (CIP)

If a separate flushing system is required, it shall have the same capacity as the high-
est possible feed flow and is best connected as far upstream as possible to avoid
accidental entrance of feed into the decanter.

Rev. 00 11
Decanter Installation Manual

If the decanter has a connection for CIP to clean the outside of the bowl and the
inside of the casing, the GA Drawing states the dimensions for the connection.

NOTE
Do not use magnet valves in flushing and CIP systems due to the risk
of blocking.

Liquid Outlet - Open

As the outlet for liquid is placed under the decanter, enough space shall be provided
for collection of the liquid, and its further flow.
The liquid is discharged with high velocity from decanters. If the discharge duct/
piping cross section area is reduced too much too fast the flow may be restricted by
vortex building. Other restrictions such as foam building may also reduce the
hydraulic capacity of the liquid outlet considerably.

CAUTION
If liquid for some reason cannot leave the decanter casing the liquid
level may reach the rotating bowl. This will lead to high power con-
sumption and may force liquid through the seals at the main bearings
and into the bearings with a bearing break down as an unfortunate
consequence.

Make sure the liquid discharge duct/piping can handle the full hydraulic capacity of
the decanter. The line shall be made with sufficient slope and cross section in order
to avoid limitations to the flow rate. Avoid sharp or too many bends.

12 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

The GA Drawing states the dimensions for the liquid discharge connection.
If the liquid is discharged to an open hopper, the installation shall be made in such
a way that the rotating bowl cannot be reached from underneath the decanter. If the
products processed in the decanter cause vapour, corrosive fume or dust impact, a
closed outlet is absolutely necessary.

Rev. 00 13
Decanter Installation Manual

Arrange the liquid discharge duct and connections in short easily assembled and
disassembled sections to facilitate maintenance, cleaning and replacement.
Fit the compensator as close as possible to the liquid discharge flange shown in the
GA Drawing. The distance from the decanter flange to the flexible connection shall
be less than the width of the flange. The maximum permissible weight of any adaptor
for the liquid outlet is 2.5% of the weight of the empty decanter, see the GA Drawing.
Fit a sample point in an easily accessible place.
If a decanter has two open outlets (three-phase decanter) the same criteria apply to
both.

Paring Disc Outlet

The position and dimension of the connection is shown on the GA Drawing.
The outlet pipe should always be open for liquid discharge. Use diverter valves and
not on/off valves.
The pipe line should be equipped with a non-return valve to prevent liquid in the pipe
line to flow backwards to the decanter, when the decanter is running down or is in
stand still, where the outlet paring disc loses its pumping ability.
To make it possible to maintain constant pressure during operation a constant pres-
sure modulating valve (CPM valve) shall be fitted. Before the CPM valve a sight
glass and a pressure gauge can be fitted.
The downstream piping from the decanter to have such size, max length and max
height that the total pipe resistance is well under the maximum pressure available
from the paring disc at max possible plant capacity.

14 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

The purpose of the paring disc is to prevent oxidation of process liquid and shall not
be used as a replacement for a pump for further conveying of process liquid.

Fit a sample point at an easily accessible place.

If the casing has an outlet for discharge of CIP liquid and leakage, the same criteria
as for the other outlets apply. The highest flow rate is typically the flow rate of the
CIP liquid used to clean the outside of the bowl.

Solids outlet
As the outlets for solids and liquid(s) are placed under the decanter, enough space
shall be provided for collection of the solids and for equipment for their removal.
The installation to be made in such a way that is impossible to reach any of the rotat-
ing parts nor shall it not be possible to be hit by ejected material.
The solids discharge duct or connection should be arranged in short easily assem-
bled and disassembled sections to facilitate maintenance and replacements.
The GA Drawing states the dimensions for the solids outlet flange connections.
The distance from the decanter flange to the compensator shall be less than the
width of the flange. The maximum permissible weight of any adaptor for the solids
outlet is 2.5% of the weight of the empty decanter, which is stated on the GA Draw-
ing.
The solids are ejected downwards from the decanter bowl with high velocity. A flex-
ible solids outlet compensator shall be able to withstand a substantial wear and tear
load caused by the kinetic energy contained in the solids ejected. It shall likewise be
able to withstand the abrasive properties which solids discharged from a decanter

Rev. 00 15
Decanter Installation Manual

may have. A wear resistant and replaceable insert is a good protection against such
risks.
Sticky solids have a tendency to build up in the discharge funnel. It is therefore
important to avoid convergent funnel, chutes with inwards sloped sides or other
restrictions etc. to avoid bridging of solids and blockages even when the discharged
solids are considered not prone to clogging.
Liquid may leave the decanter through the solids outlet during different operational
conditions 1). To avoid such liquid reaching the downstream solids handling system,
one (or both) of two solutions can be used.
1. Install a diverter valve (often a slide gate) straight below the solids
discharge but not too close. From the valve/slide gate the liquid can
be diverted to a separate outlet/drain or to the ordinary liquid outlet
depending on the requirements of the application in question.
2. Use an inclined screw conveyor to convey solids from the decanter.

Fit a suitable sample opening in an easily accessible place.

Ventilation
During the rotation of a decanter bowl it acts as a fan. Along the feed tube it will suck
in air creating a small pressure inside the casing.
In order to avoid problems caused by the pressure the outlets have to be ventilated
to create a (small) under-pressure in the casing. Mist, steam and airborne particles
may be forced through the labyrinth seals into the main bearings contaminating
them. Reduced life time or – at worst – main bearing failure may be the result. Solids
may be conveyed towards the liquid outlet end of the casing and settle on internal
baffles subsequently creating bowl wear.

Open and forced ventilation

In some case it is enough to install ventilation ducts open to the atmosphere as
shown beneath.

1. During run down, just before a decanter comes to a standstill, during flushing either at full speed
or at low speed though a CIP program, as well as during introduction of feed flow during a start-up
sequence.

16 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

In hot applications or if the ducts from more than one decanter are joined in a
common manifold, forced ventilation is necessary.

Horizontal ducts shall slope at least 5% towards the funnel to prevent solids build up
in the duct.
All ventilation ducts to be as straight as possible (especially important without forced
ventilation), have large bends radii and openings for inspection and cleaning.

Rev. 00 17
Decanter Installation Manual

Three phase decanters

Three phase decanters do need ventilation of both the liquid discharges.

Paring disc decanters

Paring disc decanters have a separate outlet for drainage and CIP liquids and shall
be ventilated from this outlet.

D = Drain
V = Ventilation

18 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

Rev. 00 19
Decanter Installation Manual

Decanters with slide gate

Decanters with a slide gate fitted to the solids outlet shall be ventilated above the
slide gate.

If the outlet is open to the atmosphere ventilation of the solids outlet is not neces-
sary.

20 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

Ventilation during stand still

Even when decanters are not running ventilation of the casing is necessary. Vapour/
steam from tanks or downstream process lines may enter the casing leading to bear-
ing contamination. Either the ventilation needs to be active or the decanter shall be
isolated by closing the outlets. In such case interlocks in the control system shall
ensure the outlets are opened when there is liquid flow into the decanter and closed
when the decanter has come to a standstill and there is no flow from the decanter.

Ventilation flow rates, velocities and pipe dimensions

On cold applications experience has shown that a total ventilation flow rate = 2 x
feed flow rate distributed with ¾ in the liquid end and ¼ in the solids end work well.
It should be possible to adjust the flow rates in each line (by fan speed control or by
a valve).
Base the pipe dimensions on10 m/sec (33 ft/s) pipe velocity.

Ambient Climate
Alfa Laval decanters are designed to operate at ambient temperatures between 0°C
(32° F) and 50°C (131°F). If it is colder than the lower limit precautions (e.g. heating
by steam) shall be taken to ensure there is no frozen material inside the decanter
when it is started.
It shall be ensured that the ambient temperature does not exceed 55oC (131°F).
If a decanter is installed high above sea level the reduced air density should be taken
into consideration to ensure an adequate amount of cooling air for the motors.
When in hot applications a substantial heat radiation from the casing should also be
taken into consideration.
The same is valid for increase in the ambient temperature caused by sunlight and
other climatic impact.
In a humid climate condensation may lead to corrosion of the bearings and other
parts when a decanter is out of duty during longer periods of time. Heated or air con-
ditioned rooms are preferable unless other precautions can be taken. See the stor-
age section for details.
Dust, rain and snow shall to the highest possible extent being prevented for entering
the decanter installation.

Ergonomics
If it is possible, do not place equipment requiring permanent operator attendance in
the same room as or close to a decanter.
Ensure there is good access for maintenance and sample taking

Rev. 00 21
Decanter Installation Manual

Electrical Installation
General
This section describes the mandatory basic requirements for the electrical installa-
tion of decanters and decanter control systems.
For detailed information on specific control systems and their installation please
refer to the specific controller manuals.
Do always study manuals and installation diagrams carefully before starting instal-
lation work. Ask your Alfa Laval representative if in doubt.
For decanters supplied with an electrical panel from Alfa Laval the diagram is
shipped within the panel.
All electrical connections and the cables shall be made according to the specific con-
troller manuals and in conformity with local electricity authority regulations.

Installation requirements
Control and power panels shall not be placed in locations where the atmosphere
contains excessive amount of dust, are damp or corrosive as this may cause
damage the panel components and cause malfunction of the control panel.

CAUTION
Do not place any control and power panels directly below pipes carry-
ing water or other fluids.

The design conditions and limitations for control and power panels shall be checked
before the installation. If control and power panels are used at ambient conditions
outside the design limitations appropriate measures shall be taken such as clean
cooling air for hot conditions or heating at cold conditions.
All cables and electrical wires shall be securely attached to the decanter to prevent
loose cables or wear and damage on cables due to the movements of the decanter.
The cables shall not be in direct contact with sharp edges. Cables and wires leading
from firm installations to the decanter shall be attached by flexible connections allow-
ing movement of +/- 15 mm of the decanter in any direction.

22 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

For avoidance of electrical interference cables for control systems and network
cables should always be fitted in separate ducts and not close to or in parallel with
power and cables used with variable frequency drive (VFD). See the figure below.

1.: Input power cable

2.: VFD
3.: Motor cable
4. Power cable

Control cable ducts

Not allowed unless the 24V cable is insulated for Lead 24V and 230V control cables in
230V or insulated with an insulation sleeving for separate ducts inside the cabinet.
230V

Rev. 00 23
Decanter Installation Manual

Protection of electrical equipment against ingress

The required degree of protection against ingress is defined according to IEC 60529.

WARNING
• Control gear and control equipment shall be protected to a mini-
mum of IP54.
• Control devices mounted on the decanter shall be protected to a
minimum of IP55.
• Safety related control devices placed in wet areas shall be pro-
tected to a minimum of IP56.

For countries following other standards use comparable protection degree accord-
ing to the local standard.

Main switch and emergency stop

There shall always be a main switch for disconnecting all electrical power to the
decanter. The main switch shall be of a type which can be locked with a safety lock
in the position where power is disconnected.
As a part of the electrical system there shall be an easily accessible emergency stop
in a safe position close to the decanter. When the emergency stop is activated the
decanter shall be switched off and the feed of product to the decanter shall be
stopped or diverted.

Dimensioning current for contactors and power and motor cables

Contactors and cables for Y/D connected motors shall be dimensioned for the max-
imum current for the motor during the entire starting period. The dimensioning cur-
rent shall be set to 2.3 times the full load current of the motor. The starting time for
dimensioning shall be 3 minutes.
The main switch shall be dimensioned to be able to break the maximum current
during start up.
For decanters equipped with fluid coupling or friction coupling contactors and cables
shall be dimensioned for 3 times the full load current for a starting period of 2 min-
utes.

Cable requirements
Cables, wires and other electrical components attached to the decanter shall be
selected to withstand the ambient climate and the vibrations of the decanter.

Ethernet cables
Ethernet cables for serial communication and signal cables shall be selected and
installed according to the control system manuals. I.e. shielded signal cables of suit-

24 Rev. 00
 Decanter Installation Manual

able dimensions. Ethernet cables shall be S/FTP type (Foil Shielded Twisted Pairs)
surrounded by an overall braided shield with shielded RJ45 jacks on both ends.

VFD Cables
Do always use symmetrically shielded cables with 3 protective earth wires as shown
below. for frequency inverter driven motors to minimize electrical interference in the
installation. The shield shall be properly connected in both ends, to ensure that there
is a low impedance return path to the inverter. Failure to do so will result in electrical
interference with signal cables and possible malfunctioning of the control systems.

1: PE conductor and shield

2: Shield
3: PE

1: Insulation jacket
2: Copper wire screen
3: Helix of copper tape or copper wire
4: Inner insulation
5: Cable core

Rev. 00 25
Decanter Installation Manual

1. & 2. If shielded cable is used (not required but recommended), use a separate
PE cable (1) or a cable with a grounding conductor (2) if the conductivity of the
input cable shield is < 50 % of the conductivity of the phase conductor. Ground
the other end of the input cable shield or PE conductor at the distribution
board.360 degrees grounding recommended if shielded cable
3. 360 degrees grounding recommended if shielded cable
4. 360 degrees grounding required
5. Use a separate grounding cable if the conductivity of the cable shield is < 50 %
of the conductivity of the phase conductor and there is no symmetrically con-
structed grounding conductor in the cable.

NOTE
If there is a symmetrically constructed grounding conductor in the
motor cable in addition to the conductive shield, connect the ground-
ing conductor to the grounding terminal at the drive and motor ends.

NOTE
Do not use an asymmetrically constructed motor cable for motors
> 30 kW (40 HP). Connecting its fourth conductor at the motor end
increases bearing currents and causes extra wear.

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 Decanter Installation Manual

6. INPUT
7. Drive
8. OUTPUT
9. External brake resistor
10.Motor

360° grounding

Sensor cables not delivered with the decanter

Sensor cables shall be selected with insulation material capable of withstanding
operating environment of the decanter.
For machines with the Alfa Laval mechanical overload coupling (GS coupling), the
sensor cable shall be 4-wire-multicore cable with common shield. 6-8 mm external
cable diameter and each multicore conductor cross section shall be between 0.25 to
0.75 mm2 range.

Maximum cable length

Cables for remote controllers should not exceed 50 m unless otherwise specified.
Longer cable length means higher risk for electrical interference and voltage drop.
VFD cable lengths should not exceed 100 m unless otherwise specified.
Ethernet copper cable lengths should not exceed 100 m unless otherwise specified.

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Decanter Installation Manual

See example drawings below showing normal installation cable length limits.

S.: Sensor cable

E.: Ethernet copper cable
V.: Motor cable
RC.: Remote Controller
VFD.: Variable Frequency Driver

Electrical earth connection

The decanter will have an electrical earth connection point on the frame marked with
a label. The decanter shall always be connected to electrical earth at this point
according to local regulations.

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 Decanter Installation Manual

It shall also be ensured that all earth connection cables between electrical motors
and the frame are present and properly fitted.

Test and checking after installation before putting into use

Before putting into use, all electrical installations for decanters shall be tested. This
will include a functional test with special attention to all safety related alarm func-
tions.

WARNING
It shall always be checked that the decanter bowl speed is in accor-
dance with the documentation and that the maximum bowl speed
marked on the nameplate cannot be exceeded.

Control panels not supplied by Alfa Laval

It is always recommended to use control systems and electrical panels designed by
Alfa Laval to ensure the full safety and reliability of the decanter operation. All elec-
trical systems for Alfa Laval decanters shall fulfil our “Requirements for Decanter
Control Systems” which is available upon request to our sales companies.

Disclaimer
Alfa Laval cannot be held responsible for any damage or injury caused by faults in
installation, design or manufacturing of electrical equipment not supplied by Alfa
Laval. In the same manner Alfa Laval cannot be held responsible if control equip-
ment supplied by Alfa Laval is modified in any way without a written permission by
Alfa Laval or is not installed according to the instructions.

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Decanter Installation Manual

Unpacking
Small decanters are shipped fully assembled. The rotating and the stationary parts
of the large decanters are shipped separately.
When opening the shipments care shall be taken not to damage the decanter or the
other parts of the delivery. Be aware of smaller boxed containing tools, lubricants
etc.
Check that there are no visual signs of the shipments have been subject to overload.

Lifting, lowering and fixing

Do either use the lifting points on the frame and suitable chains when lifting a frame
(with or without the rotating assembly in) or a forklift under the frame. Make sure the
forklift does not damage the decanter outlets.
When lifting a rotating assembly, the correct Alfa Laval supplied lifting tool or a safe
method shall be used.

NOTE
Do not use two slings at the bearings as it will make it impossible to
align the bearings when lowering the rotating assembly onto the
frame.

Do always lower a rotating assembly carefully onto the frame. If it is needed use
guides to align the holes for the locating pins/bolts.
Carefully tighten all bolts with the required torque (see the Operator’s Manual).
The weights of the major components are stated on the GA Drawing.
Descriptions of how to install other parts such as the main drive console, the drive
belts and the feed tube are in the Operator’s Manual.

Storing before Commissioning

Alfa Laval decanters are prepared with rust preventives and can therefore be stored
up to one year at indoor storage. Storage temperature should not exceed the tem-
perature range from -20 deg C (-4 deg F) to +40 deg C (104 deg F), and the humidity
of the air should be below 80%. Heavy temperature fluctuations which may create
condensation should be avoided. If necessary, the storage area should be heated in
the winter and ventilated in the summer. The decanters should be stored isolated
from vibrations from other machinery.
Before storage, the packaging should be checked for handling damage and water
ingress. If there are any signs of water and humidity inside the packaging, open or
remove the packaging and allow all surfaces to dry before the decanter is stored.
All lubricants supplied with the decanter should be stored under the same conditions
as the decanter.

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 Decanter Installation Manual

Long term unprotected outdoor storage should be avoided. If outdoor storage is

unavoidable, the maximum outdoor storage time for the decanter is one month. It
should be suitably protected from the direct impact of the elements. Outdoor storage
of decanters in corrosive environments, typical in coastal regions, should be com-
pletely avoided.
If the decanter has been supplied in a seaworthy packaging consisting of an alumin-
ium bag inside a wooden crate, it can be stored outdoors up to six months. The integ-
rity of the packaging should be checked before storage.
All separate control equipment should be stored indoors.

Preparing for Commissioning

If the decanter has been stored less than a year, it shall be started up according to
the instructions for first start up in the operator’s manual. The gearbox oil level shall
be checked before start.
Under good conditions (dry atmosphere and room temperature) a decanter can be
stored up to two years from delivery date.
If the decanter has been stored longer than stated above, a major service on the
main bearings including bearing change should be performed.
Note that bearings on motors shall be serviced and lubricated according to the
instructions of the motor manufacturer.
Lubricating grease older than two years should not be used.

Waste Disposal
The packing material used for the delivery of a decanter shall be disposed of accord-
ing to national laws and regulations. If the bowl is delivered in a separate box this
can be saved to be used for shipment to an Alfa Laval service centre should this
become necessary.

Rev. 00 31