Vibration Analysis

The process for conducting vibration analysis involves a number of steps:

1. Data collection: An engineer will collect vibration data from the machinery.
2. Data processing: The data that is collected is then processed to remove noise and artefacts.
3. Data analysis: Once the data has been processed, it can the be analysed to identify potential problems.
4. Fault diagnosis: The results of the data analysis are then used to diagnose the underlying problem.
5. Corrective action: Any problems that have been identified through the analysis can then be rectified.

There a lots of different types of vibration analysis. Each of them have their own benefits and disadvantages.

Here are some of the most common types:

• Trend analysis
• Spectral analysis
• Modal analysis

To determine the required frequency of vibration analysis, you will need to consider a number of factors: the type of machinery, the operating conditions and the risk of failure.

If you own or operate critical machinery, the frequency advised will be more regular, possibly on a monthly or quarterly basis.

For less critical machinery, it might be more appropriate to conduct vibration on an annual or bi-annual basis.

Today, there are various levels of PCN’s available for company employees in which to gain accreditation. To progress through the PCN levels, you need to accumulate a required amount of experience, attend accredited training courses and then pass professional examinations. All of our vibration analysts have this experience, training and qualifications.

It identifies the individual’s competence in condition based predictive maintenance.

The qualification also facilitates compliance with ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems for training & personal qualification.

Here is a list of the most popular tests and failures:

Tests:

• Bearing Failure
• Phase Analysis
• Time Waveforms
• Resonance
• Critical Speeds
• Misalignment
• Looseness
• Drive Belts
• Gearboxes
• Electrical
• Generator

Failures:

• Wear and lubrication faults
• Unbalance, bent shafts and cocked bearings
• Worn/damaged gear teeth
• Bump tests
• Run up, coast down
• Dynamic (i.e. with machine running)
• Structural, internal and external
• Wear and misalignment
• Gear and bearing faults
• AC and DC motors and electrical supply faults
• Shorted rotor turns (thermal growth)