SOLUTION

WJE performed a mechanical inspection to assess the existing condition of the globe machinery, developed a recommended scope of work to rehabilitate the globe to restore operation, and provided budgetary cost estimates for completing the rehabilitation. The inspection and subsequent investigation determined that the root cause of the lower bearing failure was improper selection of the bearing type (spherical roller bearing used in an axial thrust application) and inadequate lubrication. WJE developed a rehabilitation design that replaced the original lower bearing with a new spherical roller thrust bearing (SRTB).

Due to the lack of original design or shop drawings and an aggressive construction schedule to refurbish and relocate the globe to a new park setting in time for their centennial celebration, Babson College implemented the rehabilitation using the design-build approach. WJE engineers developed conceptual design details for the new and rehabilitated machinery components and worked collaboratively with the contractor afterward to develop the shop drawings and means and methods to safely jack and remove the globe from its trunnion, reinstall the globe on the trunnion with the new bearings, and restore the operating machinery to operating condition. WJE provided engineering support services through completion of the construction work.