NUMBER B52-E02

REV. NO. 0
ENGINEERING STANDARD DATE MAR 2000
PAGE 1 OF 20

Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for

Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment

This document is issued by Engineering Standards Section, SABIC R&D Complex, PO Box 42503, Riyadh 11551, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The information contained in this document is the confidential property of SABIC. It can not be disclosed, copied or used for any purpose
without prior approval from SABIC. If you are not authorized to posses this document, please destroy it immediately.
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 2 OF 20

CONTENTS

1. SCOPE................................................................................................. 3
2. REFERENCES 3
3. DEFINITIONS 3
4. GENERAL ........................................................................................... 4
5. DESIGN INFORMATION REQUIRED 4
5.1 Machine Data 4
5.2 Geotechnical Data .......................................................................... 4
6. CRITERIA FOR DYNAMIC ANALYSIS 5
6.1 General 5
6.2 Main Parameters for Dynamic Analysis ......................................... 5
6.3 Damping 7
6.4 Resonance and Permissible Frequency Ratios 7
6.5 Maximum Amplitudes ..................................................................... 8
7. FOUNDATION REQUIREMENTS 8
7.1 Foundation Sizing 8
7.2 Foundation Types ........................................................................... 8
7.3 Foundation Geometry 9
7.4 Stiffness Requirements 10
8. PROCEDURE FOR DYNAMIC ANALYSIS ....................................... 10
9. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 11
9.1 Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment Loads 11
9.2 Allowable Foundation Eccentricities ............................................. 12
9.3 Soil Bearing Pressures and Settlements 13
9.4 Stresses and Reinforcement 13
9.5 Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment Not Requiring Dynamic
Analysis ........................................................................................ 13
10. FOUNDATION DESIGN 13
11. SYMBOLS AND NOTATIONS 14

FIGURE
1 Limits of Vibration Amplitude Versus Frequency................................ 16
2 β Coefficients for Rectangular Foundations 17
3 Natural Resonant Frequency for Vertical Oscillation for an
End-bearing Pile Carrying a Static Load W to a Rigid Underlying
Stratum 18

TABLE
I Soil Spring Constants for Rigid Footing Resting on
Elastic Half-Space .............................................................................. 19
II Equivalent Circular Footing for a Rectangular Footing 19
III Typical Values of Shear Modulus, G 20
IV Geometrical Damping Ratios ............................................................. 20
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 3 OF 20

1. Scope
1.1 This standard provides general considerations, criteria, requirements and procedure for the dynamic
analysis and design of foundations for reciprocating and rotating (centrifugal) equipment.
1.2 The static analysis of foundations for equipment is detailed in SES B52-E01.

2. References
Reference is made in this standard to the following documents. The latest issues, amendments, and
supplements to these documents shall apply unless otherwise indicated.
SABIC Engineering Standards (SES)
B01-E01 Design Criteria for Concrete and Steel Structures
B51-S01 Cast-In-Place Reinforced Concrete
B51-S03 Grouting for Equipment and Structural Foundations
B52-E01 Design Criteria for Foundations of Structures and Equipment
B52-S01 Installation of Foundations
B55-E01 Anchor Bolt Design
C02-S02 Excavation and Backfill Specification
C02-S03 Geotechnical Engineering Investigation
G20-C01 Machinery Installation and Criteria for Installation Design
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
318M Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary
American Petroleum Institute (API)
686 Recommended Practices for Machinery Installation and Installation Design

3. Definitions
For the purpose of understanding this standard, the following definitions apply.
Base Plate (also called Mounting Plate or Skid). Common steel base plate connected to machine
supplied by the machinery manufacturer for mounting the entire machinery (train) on to the foundation.
High-Tuned System. A high-tuned system is a machine support/foundation system in which the operating
frequency (range) of the machinery (train) is below all natural frequencies of the system.
Low-Tuned System. A low-tuned system is a machine support/foundations system in which the operating
frequency (range) of the machinery (train) is above all natural frequencies of the system.
Machine Bearing Axis. An axis drawn between the geometric centers of two bearings supporting the
machine rotor or shaft. For machinery trains with an offset gearbox, an equivalent machine bearing axis
shall be determined, parallel to the individual axes and in the position of the resultant of the in-phase
dynamic forces.
Machine Support and Foundation System. A system consisting of the machinery (train) including base
plate and the foundation, support or support structures plus all piers, equipment and process piping
supported on the foundation or machinery. The supporting soil, piles or structure shall be considered part
of the machine foundation system.
Rotating and Reciprocating Equipment. Any machinery having rotating or reciprocating masses as the
major moving parts. Examples of rotating equipment are compressors, pumps, electric motors and
turbines. Examples of reciprocating equipment are compressors, pumps and diesel engines.
Support/Foundation. The part of the machine support not supplied by the equipment manufacturer as
part of the machinery (train). This may include but is not limited to piers, concrete mat or block, piles, steel
structures, anchor bolts and embedded foundation plates.
Table Top. Reinforced concrete structure supporting elevated machinery.
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4. General
4.1 The designed foundation shall satisfy the following requirements:
a. Wherever the operational dynamic loads are known, an effort shall be made to limit the
amplitudes of vibration to some acceptable level. In the absence of manufacturer specified vibration
tolerances, it is recommended that the vector sum of the component amplitudes be less than the
recommended amplitudes in Figure 1.
b. In foundations where dynamic loads are involved, resonance between the foundation and the
equipment it supports shall be avoided. To achieve this, the recommended frequency ratio shall be
outside the band of 0.75 to 1.25.
c. Sufficient strength and rigidity shall be provided, to maintain equipment alignment and to prevent
failures due to fatigue or overstressing
d. There shall be adequate foundation bearing capacity and acceptable settlements
4.2 The final detail design of the foundations shall consider all possible loads and allowable stresses from
SES B01-E01; deflection limitations; vibration responses; geotechnical conditions; and mechanical and
environmental requirements of the project. It shall also comply with SES G20-C01 and API 686, chapter 4.

5. Design Information Required

5.1 Machine Data
5.1.1 The following machine data shall be required prior to design of foundations:
a. Outline drawing of the machine assembly for dimensions of the machine base and location, type,
and size of anchor bolts and support plates
b. Machine’s process function and service
c. Weights of the machine and its rotating components
d. Vertical and horizontal location of the center of gravity for the combined machine assembly and
for each component
e. Machine speed (or speed range for variable speed machines) for rotor components of rotary
machinery, consisting of maximum continuous operating speed, maximum and minimum speed for trip
or alarm setting, or both
f. Frequency of unbalanced primary and secondary loads of reciprocating machinery
g. Horsepower
h. Allowable amplitudes for machinery
i. Mass and eccentricity of rotors
j. Space restrictions and maximum maintenance lift load
k. Magnitude, direction, and point of application of unbalanced forces or couples, or both, for
vertical and horizontal directions
l. Foundation recommendations of machinery vendor, including maximum allowable static
deformation
5.1.2 The above machine data shall usually be supplied by the machine manufacturer. In the absence of
displacement vibration amplitude criteria from the vendor, Figure 1 should be used as a general guidance
in the design.
5.2 Geotechnical Data
5.2.1 For static and dynamic analysis, a geotechnical investigation shall be carried out to determine the
soil formation, its representative properties, and groundwater conditions, in accordance with SES C02-S03.
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Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
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5.2.2 The required soil properties shall include the allowable bearing capacity or pile load capacity,
settlement criteria, soil density (γ), Poisson’s ratio (ν), modulus of elasticity of soil (E) and shear modulus
(G) for both static and dynamic designs. The soil consultant shall include these properties in the
preliminary and final geotechnical reports.
5.2.3 Foundation adequacy for static bearing capacity and settlement considerations shall be checked.
5.2.4 Effect of dynamic loading on foundation soil (that is, densification of loose cohesionless soil, or
liquefaction of loose saturated cohesionless soils) shall be investigated. If necessary, treatment of the
in-situ foundation soils shall be considered to improve their condition. Compaction shall be in accordance
with SES C02-S02, section 4.
5.2.5 In-situ or laboratory testing to establish appropriate dynamic parameters of the foundation soils,
whether in-situ treated or untreated, or compacted fill, shall be carried out.
5.2.6 If a requirement for piles is established, appropriate dynamic parameters for piles shall be
determined.
5.2.7 Soil Layers. To utilize the elastic half-space equations, a single value for the shear modulus and for
Poisson’s ratio shall be obtained, based on the properties of the multiple layers of soil. Average values
should be obtained by linearly weighing the moduli from a maximum under the foundation to zero at a
depth of ro/2.

6. Criteria for Dynamic Analysis

6.1 General
6.1.1 The dynamic analysis of vibrating machine foundations is typically performed by considering the
block foundation to be infinitely rigid, and thus a lumped mass model can be constructed. This model can
be represented satisfactorily by a mass-spring-dashpot analog. The model includes soil or pile spring
constants and dashpot, to account for the soil/pile and structure interaction effects.
6.1.2 Single-degree-of-freedom representations shall suffice for the dynamic analysis of machines on
block foundation. Machines on table top foundations shall be dynamically analyzed by a dynamic analysis
specialist.
6.1.3 Because of the uncertainties associated with the selection of pile stiffness and boundary conditions,
a range of values should be considered for these properties, to give a range of pile stiffness and boundary
condition values to be avoided for the foundation natural frequencies.
6.1.4 For machines that have more than one exciting force, a multi-degree-of-freedom system shall be
required. Though the analysis is similar, interpretation of results, and the effect of mass, stiffness and
damping of machine, foundation, supporting soil or piles is more complicated. A dynamic analysis
specialist shall be consulted.
6.1.5 Under resonant conditions, a damped response analysis shall be carried out by a dynamic analysis
specialist (see 6.1.4), but may be ignored in the design of high tuned foundations.
6.1.6 Mass distribution and foundation geometry are important considerations in the dynamic analysis of
foundations. See section 8.
6.2 Main Parameters for Dynamic Analysis
6.2.1 Mass. The lumped mass is the mass of the foundation and the supported machinery. The definition
is based upon the concept of an ‘in-phase mass’, and leads to only an estimate of the natural frequency of
the system.
6.2.2 Spring Constant. The spring constant is the most important of the three parameters utilized in a
single-degree-of-freedom system. The value of the spring constant affects the frequency and magnitude of
motions at resonance and at frequencies well below resonance.
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6.2.2.1 Soil Spring Constants. Table I gives formulas for soil spring constants.
a. For a rigid foundation on the surface of uniform soil extending to a significant depth, the relation
between the deformation of the foundation and the applied load shall be expressed by the formulas
presented in Table I, derived from the theory of elastic half-space. These formulas shall apply for
foundations with shallow embedment.
b. Deeper embedment increases the natural frequency, but the change is not significant and shall
be neglected if the embedment depth is less than 15 percent of the footing’s width.
c. The vibration equations and ratios in this standard are evaluated using a circular footing on an
elastic half-space. Table II gives equations relating an equivalent circular footing of radius (ro) to a
rectangular footing of dimensions ‘b’ by ‘L’.
6.2.2.2 Pile Spring Constants. Piles provide resistance to vertical motion by end bearing, skin friction, or by
a combination of the two. The resistance developed by piles to horizontal forces is provided by horizontal
bearing against soil. The ‘in phase’ soil mass which participates in the vibration shall be ignored, even
though its quantity may be greater than that which would participate in a shallow, soil-supported foundation.
The error involved in this assumption shall be neglected. The types of pile spring constant are:
a. Vertical Spring Constant For End-Bearing Piles. End-bearing piles provide support for a
foundation by transferring the vertical loads to a stronger soil stratum at some depth beneath the
ground surface. This type of vibration can be represented by an elastic rod fixed at the base and free
at the top, with an axial load acting on the top. Figure 3 illustrates the relationship between axial load
and the vertical resonant frequency of the end-bearing piles, and includes the parameters of axial
load, pile length, and pile material. The figure is based on the theoretical consideration of an ideal
system in which the weight of the machine is carried by elastic piles to a rigid bedrock layer. The
geotechnical engineer shall run tests on the specific piles which will be used for the project, to
determine the vertical spring constants.
Vertical spring constant: Kv = (AEp/Lp)
b. Vertical Spring Constant For Friction Piles. The system of friction piles can be mathematically
represented by a vertical elastic rod with variable forces acting along the rod’s surface. If a variable
dynamic force is acting at the top of the pile due to lateral motions, the upper soil layers are separated
from the pile and provide no frictional resistance. The total elastic deformation of the rod, ∆, can be
calculated by the summation of the deformations.
Vertical spring constant: Kv = W/∆
The geotechnical engineer shall specify the spring constants of the piles to be used.
c. Horizontal Spring Constant of Piles. In a lateral vibration analysis, it is assumed that the base of
the footing is separated from the soil due to settlement. The entire resistance to lateral loads will be
provided by the piles. A long vertical pile acts like a semi-infinite beam on an elastic foundation. The
critical factor in this type of analysis is the proper selection of the coefficient of horizontal subgrade
reaction Kh, which relates to the pressure developed as the surface of the pile moves a unit distance
into the soil. Kh varies with depth and soil conditions. The geotechnical engineer shall specify the
horizontal spring constant.
d. Rocking Spring Constant of Pile Group. The foundation should be represented by a rigid mass if
the thickness requirements specified in 7.3 are satisfied. Rocking is the type of vibration that rotates
about the center of gravity with springs (piles) connected to the mass at various locations measured
perpendicularly to the axis of rotation. For a rigid foundation mat, the rocking resistance is provided by
the combined effect of the vertical stiffness of each pile and the horizontal distance of the piles from
the axis of rotation.
Rocking spring constant: KR = (Kv x rR2)
Undamped rocking natural frequency: fn = 60(KR/Ir)1/2 /2π
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Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
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e. Torsional Spring Constant of Pile Group. The torsional spring constant can be calculated in a
similar way to the rocking spring constant, except for the use of the horizontal spring constant instead
of the vertical.
Torsional spring constant: K T = (KH x rR2)
6.3 Damping
6.3.1 The dashpot in the single-degree-of-freedom system represents the damping of the soil in the
foundation-soil system. There are two types of damping in the real system: ‘geometrical’ or ‘radiation’
damping, which is the most prominent, and ‘internal’ damping. Internal damping is of lesser importance in
most cases, especially in the single-degree-of-freedom lumped mass system. The total damping shall be
the sum of the geometrical and internal damping.
6.3.2 Geometrical damping involves the loss of energy through propagation of elastic waves away from
the immediate vicinity of the footing (foundation). The geometrical damping ratio, D, for rigid circular
footings resting on an elastic half-space shall be determined using the expressions in Table IV.
Rectangular bases of dimensions b-by-L shall be converted into equivalent circular bases of radius ro
using the equations in Table I. When a hard stratum of soil or rock exists at a shallow depth below the
footing, consideration should be given to reducing the values of geometrical damping. If the foundation is
over rock, no dynamic analysis shall be needed, as rock is assumed to be an infinitely stiff material.
6.3.3 In pile foundations, very little geometric damping occurs in the vertical and rocking modes because
the axial stiffness of the pile resists this motion, with negligible deformation of the soil. The internal
damping ratio for steel or concrete piles is approximately 0.02. For horizontal and torsional vibrations,
geometric damping dominates because most of the energy is radiated away through the soil, and the
damping ratio range is approximately 0.1 to 0.15.
6.3.4 In most designs, it will be more practical to make a change in dynamic response by modifying the
natural frequencies of the system rather than trying to modify the damping characteristics.
6.4 Resonance and Permissible Frequency Ratios
6.4.1 Calculation of vibration amplitude limits requires information on the operational dynamic loads. For
many types of equipment this information will not be available. In such cases, the most important factor in
dynamic analysis where machine induced vibrations are involved will be to avoid resonance. Resonance
occurs when the operating speed of a piece of equipment and a fundamental natural frequency (ω) of the
supporting structure are identical.
6.4.2 If the frequency of the exciting force (f) is near a natural (resonant) frequency of the foundation
system (fn), resonance will occur and may cause excessive vibration. To avoid this area of high
amplitudes, the frequency ratio R shall be outside the band of 0.75 to 1.25. The translational modes of
vibration typically have higher values of damping. Consequently, this consideration may not be too critical.
However, for rotational modes of vibration, characterized by very low damping values, it becomes very
important to keep the frequency ratio out of the resonant range.
6.4.3 A reciprocating machine may have both primary and secondary unbalanced forces, and the
secondary forces will occur at twice the operating frequency. Due to this, it will be difficult to stay out of the
resonant range unless the machine speed is very low, or the foundation system has a natural frequency
exceeding both the primary and secondary frequencies. In such situations the calculated amplitudes are
dependent on the best estimated values of spring constants and damping ratios.
6.4.4 The vertical natural frequency of a pile foundation is usually high because of the pile axial rigidity. In
the rocking mode of vibration, the response may be within the resonance range. If this occurs, the natural
frequency shall be increased by locating the piles farther apart from the axis of rotation, provided that the
foundation mat is rigid.
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Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
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6.4.5 Vertical piles are not usually effective in resisting horizontal or torsional lateral loads. If lateral
response is close to resonance, the foundation shall be stiffened to increase its natural frequency. Pile
foundations shall be stiffened by one of the following methods:
a. Increase in the number of piles
b. Increase in embedment of the piles into the cap, to ensure a fixed-end condition
c. Increase in mat edge thickness
d. Use of batter piles
6.4.6 Because of the uncertainties of soil-pile interaction, the calculation of frequency and response for pile
foundations is at best an estimate. The engineer should carefully examine the results of using different
stiffness input values in the frequency calculations. This will indicate if any big differences exist in results
for frequency and response of pile foundations.
6.5 Maximum Amplitudes
6.5.1 Total amplitudes for reciprocating machinery shall be calculated by combining in-phase, primary and
secondary amplitudes from loads defined in 9.1.1 and 9.1.4. The physiological effects of total
‘peak-to-peak’ amplitude of the machinery on persons shall be evaluated, using Figure 1.
6.5.2 Total amplitudes for rotary machinery shall be calculated by combining in-phase amplitudes from
loads defined in 9.1.2 and 9.1.5. When there is more than one rotor, amplitudes shall be computed with the
rotor forces assumed both in-phase and 180° out of phase, to obtain the maximum translational and
torsional amplitudes. The physiological effects of total ‘peak-to-peak’ amplitude of the machinery on
persons shall be evaluated, using Figure 1.
6.5.3 It is not possible to set an absolute maximum for vibration amplitudes. Firstly, tolerable levels
decrease as the machine operating speed increases. Secondly, tolerable amplitudes are much lower when
the vibrating machine is indoors, near sensitive equipment, or near people, than when the machine is
located in an isolated off-site area. The amplitudes shall not exceed the values furnished by the machine
manufacturer unless their written permission is obtained.

7. Foundation Requirements
7.1 Foundation Sizing
Preliminary foundation sizing is based on the following:
a. Equipment and geotechnical data from section 5
b. Vendor’s recommendations
c. Piping requirements
d. Foundation types, see 7.2
e. Foundation geometry, see 7.3
f. Stiffness requirements, see 7.4
g. Equipment static loads, see 9.1.1 and 9.1.2
h. Static analysis considering a to g above
7.2 Foundation Types
7.2.1 Rigid Foundations
When the ground is very rigid, a semi-infinite elasticity is considered for the supporting ground. The
foundation’s natural frequency and vibration amplitude shall be calculated accordingly.
7.2.2 Soil Bearing Foundations
7.2.2.1 When the ground’s allowable bearing capacity is greater than 10 T/m2, and soil layers that can
cause settlement do not exist to a depth of twice the width of the footing from the bottom of a foundation,
the foundation shall be designed for 60 percent of the allowable soil bearing capacity.
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7.2.2.2 If the soil types and the bearing capacity do not meet the above mentioned criteria, they shall be
met by replacing the surface soil with sand, or by using other appropriate methods. Soil bearing
foundations shall have positive soil bearing pressure over the entire base of the foundation.
7.2.2.3 If the ground water table is close to the bottom of the foundation, the extent of soil liquefaction
shall be checked. Also, the bearing capacity shall be reduced, taking into consideration cohesion loss and
buoyancy.
7.2.3 Vibration Isolating Foundations
7.2.3.1 If nearby buildings and equipment will be affected by vibration due to the use of rigid foundations,
vibration isolating foundations using rubber, metal coil springs or other vibration absorbers should be used.
7.2.3.2 Machinery resting on vibration isolating foundations vibrates violently when it passes its resonant
point between start of operation and normal operating speed, so attached piping and other attachments
shall be installed in a way that they will not be adversely affected. The operating floor shall be isolated
from the machinery.
7.2.3.3 The centers of gravity of machinery and the height of its points of support shall be as close as
possible.
7.2.3.4 Foundation length and width should be adjusted so that the horizontal center of gravity of the
machine plus any equipment coincides with the center of gravity of the foundation. Also, sufficient area
around the foundation should be available for maintenance.
7.2.4 Pile Foundations
7.2.4.1 Pile foundations shall be used for machinery when soil bearing foundations cannot be used.
7.2.4.2 Pile type and dimensions shall be determined by considering depth of bearing strata and ground
water, equipment weight, type of surface soil, construction period and cost, and direction/magnitude of
unbalanced forces.
7.2.4.3 Batter piles may be used when horizontal unbalanced forces are of great magnitude.
7.2.4.4 Pile shall extend into the pile cap a minimum of 150 mm.
7.3 Foundation Geometry
7.3.1 Foundation geometry shall consist of clean simple lines. Piers and blocks shall be of uniform
rectangular shapes. Pockets shall be avoided.
7.3.2 The foundation configuration shall be shallow and wide, so that the vertical center of gravity of the
machine assembly coincides as closely as possible with the vertical center of gravity of the combined
system.
7.3.3 The machine shall be located in a way that the center of load coincides in plan with the center of
gravity of foundation, and the axes of twisting and rocking are parallel to the principal axes of the
foundation. Under these conditions, the vertical and twisting modes will be decoupled from the other
modes and hence may be treated independently. The horizontal and rocking modes will always be
coupled because the center of gravity of the machine foundations system in elevation is generally above
the center of resistance.
7.3.4 All parts of machine supports shall be independent of adjacent foundations and buildings. Joint
fillers and sealers shall be used between the machine foundation and adjacent foundations.
7.3.5 Size of the concrete pier or mat, or both, supporting the machinery should be as close as possible to
the machine manufacturer’s recommendations. If no recommendations are given, the pier shall satisfy the
edge distance requirement for anchor bolts in accordance with SES B01-E01.
7.3.6 The width of the mat, or the dimension perpendicular to the crank-shaft, shall be at least 1.5 times
the distance from the center-line of the shaft to the bottom of the foundation for reciprocating machinery,
and 0.75 times for rotating machinery.
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7.3.7 The foundation mat thickness shall be sufficient to ensure a rigid foundation. This requirement shall
usually be met when the thickness is as follows:
mat′s greatest dimension (width or length)
a. 0.6 + ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (meters)
30
b. If a long mat is required for several machines in line, the length or width required for one
machine, whichever is greater, shall be used in the above formula. Groups of reciprocating machinery
should be tied with a common foundation mat to reduce foundation response.
7.3.8 In pile foundations, interaction between piles reduces the effective stiffness of the individual pile. The
reduction depends upon the spacing and number of piles in the group. A wide spacing between piles shall
be used when vibration and stiffness are the critical aspect of the design criteria. A dynamic analysis
specialist shall be consulted for reduction factors.
7.3.9 Pile loads shall not exceed 75 percent of the allowable loads for static conditions.
7.4 Stiffness Requirements
7.4.1 Reinforced Concrete Structures
a. For foundations and piers constructed with normal weight concrete, the dynamic modulus of
elasticity shall be taken as:
Ed = 6560 * (f’c)0.5 (MPa)
b. For concrete foundations, the weight of the foundation for reciprocating equipment shall not be
less than 5 times, and for rotary equipment, shall not be less than 3 times the weight of the machinery,
including its baseplate and the piping supported from the foundation.
c. The depth of concrete foundations in meters shall not be less than the greater of the following
values:
0.6 + L/30 or b/2.5
However, the depth required by b/2.5 does not need to be more than 1.8 m.
d. Piers should be avoided unless absolutely required by operation or maintenance or machine
layout. The minimum horizontal dimension of any pier shall be 300 mm.
7.4.2 Steel Structures
a. It is difficult to identify specific stiffness requirements for steel structures. The machinery train will
usually be supplied on a very stiff baseplate, which in turn has to be supported by the steel structure.
Support locations and type used by the machinery train manufacturer in the design, shall be
accurately provided for the installation.
b. If the manufacturer used continuous support for the baseplate in the design, it is recommended
that the supporting members of the steel structure shall have at least 3 times the stiffness of the
baseplate.

8. Procedure for Dynamic Analysis

8.1 After determining a preliminary foundation size in accordance with section 7, the second phase of the
design shall be the dynamic analysis. Maximum use of internationally accepted computer programs for
dynamic analysis shall be made, to maximize efficiency, consistency and accuracy of designs. Computer
programs shall be subject to SABIC approval.
8.2 The dynamic analysis shall be based on section 6 and the equipment loading given in 9.1. The
following steps shall be required for the analysis:
a. Calculation of the lumped parameters of mass (m), damping ratio (D) and spring constant (k),
using the equations given in this standard. For the rocking and torsional modes of vibration, the mass
moment of inertia (I) of the machine and the foundation about the axis of rotation shall be substituted
for the mass. For rocking, the axis of rotation shall be a horizontal line at the base of the foundation
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passing through a point projected down from the center of gravity of the foundation. For torsion, the
axis of rotation shall be a vertical line passing through the center of gravity of the foundation.
b. Calculation of the undamped natural frequency (f n) of the foundation system:
fn = 60 (k/m)1/2/2π for translation
fn = 60 (kR/I)1/2/2π for rocking and torsion
c. Calculation of the resonant frequency:
fm = fn (1-2D2) for reciprocating machinery
fmr = fnr/(1-2D2) for rotary machinery
d. Calculation of the frequency ratio R and comparison with the allowable frequency ratio (outside
the band of 0.75 to 1.25):
R = f/ fm or f/fmr
e. Calculation of the dynamic magnification factor (M):
M = 1/((1-r 2)2 + (2Dr)2)1/2
f. Calculation of the static deflection or rotation caused by the unbalanced forces or the
unbalanced couples:
z = Qo/k for translation
θ = (Qod + Mo)/k for rocking and torsion
g. Calculation of the maximum amplitude of vibration (Al):
Al = zM for translation
Al = θMd for rotation and torsion
h. Calculation of the combined maximum amplitudes, and comparison with acceptable limits from
Figure 1
i. Calculation of the transmissibility factor for spring mounted machines, and checking for
amplification:
TR = M [1+ (2Dr) 2]1/2 for reciprocating machinery
TR = Mr 2 [1+(2Dr) 2]1/2 for rotary machinery
8.3 When the dynamic analysis is completed, the final detail design of the foundation shall be based on
section 10.

9. Additional Requirements
9.1 Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment Loads
9.1.1 Static Loads for Reciprocating Machinery.
9.1.1.1 Static design shall take into account the following loads:
a. The weight of the machine, its baseplate, the foundation and any other loads on the foundation,
for example dead load of platform and live loads from platform, if supported by machinery foundation
b. Unbalanced forces and couples, applied as specified by the machine manufacturer
9.1.2 Static Loads for Rotary Machinery
9.1.2.1 Static design shall take into account the following loads:
a. The weight of the machine, its baseplate, the foundation, live loads from platforms, and any
other loads on the foundation
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 12 OF 20

b. Lateral forces representing 25 percent of the weight of each machine, including baseplate,
applied normal to its shaft at a point midway between the end bearings
c. Longitudinal forces representing 25 percent of the weight of each machine, including baseplate,
applied along the shaft axis. These forces shall not be considered to act concurrently with those
of 9.1.2.1.b.
d. Short circuit loads, as specified by the machine manufacturer. These loads shall be assumed to
not act concurrently with the forces from 9.1.2.1.b and 9.1.2.1.c above, and may be neglected as an
overturning couple.
9.1.2.2 When forces furnished by the machinery manufacturer are greater than those specified above, the
manufacturer’s forces shall be used.
9.1.3 Dynamic Loading. The dynamic load excitation is a time dependent harmonic load in rotating and
reciprocating machinery. The amplitude, location, and period of the loading shall be specified by the
manufacturer. The amplitude of the forcing function changes with different machinery.
9.1.4 Dynamic Loads For Reciprocating Machinery
9.1.4.1 Dynamic design shall take into account the following loads:
a. Mass x acceleration
b. Primary forces and couples applied at the specific operating speed(s) for calculation of primary
amplitudes
c. Secondary forces and couples applied at twice the specified operating speed(s) for calculation of
secondary amplitudes
9.1.4.2 The dynamic loads specified by the machine manufacturer shall be applied.
9.1.5 Dynamic Loads For Rotary Machinery
9.1.5.1 Dynamic design shall take into account the following loads:
a. Mass x acceleration
b. Dynamic unbalanced forces from each rotor, which are a function of the rotary speed (usually in
rpm)
9.1.5.2 The dynamic loads shall be transversely applied to the shaft midway between the bearings.
9.1.5.3 Information on dynamic forces should be taken from the machine manufacturer.
9.2 Allowable Foundation Eccentricities
9.2.1 The horizontal eccentricity, perpendicular to the machine bearing axis or dimension ‘L’, between the
center of gravity of the machine foundation system and the centroid of the soil contact area (the elastic
support point of the pile group) shall not exceed 0.05 times ‘b’.
9.2.2 The horizontal eccentricity, parallel to the machine bearing axis between the center of gravity of the
machine foundation system and the centroid of the soil contact area (the elastic support point of the pile
group) shall not exceed 0.1 times ‘L’.
9.2.3 The machine-bearing axis and the centroid of the soil contact area (the elastic support point of the
pile group) shall lie in a common vertical plane.
9.2.4 Columns and piers shall be proportioned in a way that the centroid of their vertical stiffness (meaning
that columns and piers will have the same vertical deformation) lies in the same vertical plane as the
machine bearing axis and center of gravity of the machinery.
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 13 OF 20

9.3 Soil Bearing Pressures and Settlements

9.3.1 Foundation settlement should not be a problem if the allowable soil bearing pressures are limited as
follows.
a. When the operating frequency range of the machinery is below all natural frequencies of the
foundation system (high-tuned foundation system), soil bearing pressures shall not exceed
50 percent of the allowable bearing pressure permitted for static loads
b. When the operating frequency range of the machinery is above all natural frequencies of the
foundation system (low-tuned foundation system), soil bearing pressures shall not exceed 75 percent
of the allowable bearing pressure permitted for static loads
9.3.2 If the settlement calculation shows excessive settlement for dynamic loads, then the allowable soil
bearing pressure shall be further reduced.
9.4 Stresses and Reinforcement
9.4.1 The size and arrangement of reinforcement bars shall be determined based on two times the actual
stresses occurring in the foundation, but the minimum reinforcement provided shall not be less than that
required by ACI 318M.
9.4.2 Soil bearing foundations without footings that are supporting pumps smaller than 75 kW may be cast
from plain concrete. However, the temperature variation is large enough to cause stresses in plain
concrete to exceed the allowable value, so temperature reinforcement shall be provided to control the
thermal cracks in accordance with ACI 318M.
9.5 Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment Not Requiring Dynamic Analysis
9.5.1 For machines connected to a floor, a massive pedestal with high stiffness and high mass will
produce enough internal damping and geometrical damping to reduce the amplitude of vibrations to
acceptable levels.
9.5.2 The foundation design for reciprocating machines less than 150 kW, and rotating machines less
than 750 kW, shall meet the following six requirements. If these requirements are met, then the amplitudes
of vibrations will be within the acceptable levels, and the dynamic analysis of section 8 shall not be
required:
a. For rotating equipment, the foundation weight shall be at least 3 times, and for reciprocating
equipment, shall be at least 5 times the machine weight, including its baseplate and the piping
supported from the pedestal
b. Horizontal cantilevers shall be avoided
c. Haunches and brackets shall be avoided
d. The beam shear stress shall be fully resisted by closed ties. Minimum beam ties shall be
12 mm ∅ at 250 mm on centers
e. Local thickening of the mat under the pedestal is recommended and shall be established by the
required static design
f. Foundation shall comply with 9.2

10. Foundation Design

10.1 After the dynamic analysis is completed, the block foundation shall be designed in accordance with
the following:
a. Equipment loads from 9.1
b. ACI 318M
c. Additional requirements from 4.2 and 9.2 to 9.4
d. Anchor bolts design in accordance with SES B55-E01
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Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 14 OF 20

10.2 The concrete foundation materials shall be in accordance with SES B51-S01.
10.3 The installation of foundations and grouting shall be in accordance with SES B52-S01 and B51-S03
respectively.

11. Symbols and Notations

A = Area of pile
Al = Maximum amplitude of vibration
b = Foundation dimension parallel to axis of rotation
BH = Mass ratio for horizontal motion
BR = Mass ratio for rocking motion
BT = Mass ratio for torsional motion
BV = Mass ratio for vertical motion
d = Perpendicular distance from Qo to axis of rotation
D = Ratio of actual damping to critical damping
DH = Horizontal geometrical damping ratio
DR = Rocking geometrical damping ratio
DT = Torsional geometrical damping ratio
DV = Vertical geometrical damping ratio
E = Modulus of elasticity of soil
Ed = Dynamic modulus of elasticity of concrete
Ep = Dynamic modulus of elasticity of pile
f = Operating frequency of machine, or frequency of excitation force
f’c = Compressive strength of concrete after 28 days in MPa
fm = System resonant frequency for reciprocating machinery
fmr = System resonant frequency for rotary machinery
fn = Undamped natural frequency of foundation system
fnr = Reduced natural frequency
g = Gravity acceleration
G = Shear modulus of soil
I = Mass moment of inertia of foundation and machine about axis of rotation
Ip = Moment of inertia of the pile section
Ir = Mass moment of inertia of the machine and foundation about axis of rotation
k = Spring constant
kh = Coefficient of horizontal subgrade reaction of soil under dynamic load
kH = Horizontal spring constant of one pile
kR = Rocking spring constant of pile group or foundation
kT = Torsional spring constant of pile group or foundation
kv = Vertical spring constant of one pile
L = Foundation dimension perpendicular to axis of rotation
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 15 OF 20

Lp = Length of pile
m = Mass of foundation and machine (lumped mass)
M = Dynamic magnification ratio
Mo = Unbalanced couple due to vibrating machine
Qo = Unbalanced force due to vibrating machine
r = Ratio of operating frequency to natural frequency, f/fn
R = Frequency ratio, f/f m or f/fmr
ro = Radius of equivalent circular footing
rR = Horizontal distance between pile and axis of rotation
TR = Transmissibility factor
ν = Poisson’s ratio
W = Weight of the foundation and machine
ω = Fundamental natural frequency of the supporting structure
z = Static deflection
γ = Soil density
gp = Pile material density
θ = Static rotation
β = Rectangular foundation (footing) coefficient for obtaining k
βH = Horizontal β coefficient for rectangular foundation
βV = Vertical β coefficient for rectangular foundation
βR = Rocking β coefficient for rectangular foundation
∆ = Pile deformation
σa = Allowable compressive stress of pile
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 16 OF 20

FIGURE 1
Limits of Vibration Amplitude Versus Frequency
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 17 OF 20

FIGURE 2
β Coefficients for Rectangular Foundations
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 18 OF 20

FIGURE 3
Natural Resonant Frequency for Vertical Oscillation for an End-bearing
Pile Carrying a Static Load W to a Rigid Underlying Stratum
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD
PAGE 19 OF 20

TABLE I
Spring Constants for Rigid Footing Resting on Elastic Half-Space

MOTION SPRING CONSTANT

CIRCULAR FOOTING

Vertical kv = 4Gro/1-ν
Horizontal kH = 32 (1-ν) Gro/(7-8ν)
Rocking KR = 8Gro³/[3(1-ν)]
Torsional kT = 16/3 (Gro³)

RECTANGULAR FOOTING

Vertical kv = [G/ (1-ν)] βv (4bL)1/2

Horizontal kH = 4(1+ν) G βH (bL)1/2
Rocking KR = [G/ (1-ν)] βR bL2

Note: For βv, βH and βR see Figure 2

TABLE II
Equivalent Circular Footing for a Rectangular Footing

MOTION EQUIVALENT RADIUS (ro)

Translation ro = (bL/π)1/2
Rocking ro = (bL3/3π)1/4
Torsion ro = [bL (b 2+L2)/6π]1/4
 NUMBER B52-E02
Dynamic Analysis of Foundations for REV. NO. 0
Reciprocating and Rotating Equipment DATE MAR 2000
ENGINEERING STANDARD PAGE 20 OF 20

TABLE III
Typical Values of Shear Modulus, G

MATERIAL G, MPa

Clean dense quartz sand 12.4 - 20.7

Micaceous fine sand 15.9
Berlin sand (e = 0.53) 17.2 - 24.1
Loamy sand 10.3
Dense sand-gravel 69.0
Wet soft silty clay 9.0 - 13.8
Dry soft silty clay 17.2 - 20.7
Dry silty clay 27.6 - 34.5
Medium clay 13.8 - 27.6
Sandy clay 13.8 - 27.6

TABLE IV
Geometrical Damping Ratios

MOTION MASS RATIO GEOMETRICAL DAMPING RATIO

Vertical Bv = [(1-ν)/ 4].W/γro3 Dv = 0.425/ (Bv)1/2

Horizontal BH = [(7-8ν)/ 32(1-ν)].W/γro3 Dv = 0.2888/ (Bv)1/2
Rocking BR = [3(1-ν)/8].Irg/γro3 DR = 0.15/[(1+B R)(BR)1/2]
Torsion BT = Irg/γro5 DT = 0.50/ (1+2BT]