Machine unbalance, a common culprit behind excessive vibration and premature equipment failure, can stem from various issues. This post explores the various causes, such as manufacturing imperfections and assembly mistakes, which can lead to an uneven distribution of mass in rotating machinery. Additionally, we’ll dive into how external factors such as dirt buildup, material degradation,…
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While V-belt sheave alignment tolerances are not as precise as tolerances for precision shaft alignment, they are important. Proper sheave alignment (along with correct belt tension and proper ventilation) will: Increase Belt and Sheave Life Minimize Vibration Reduce Heat (Friction) from V-belt/Sheave Contact Types of V-Belt Misalignment Just like for shaft alignment, there are…
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Pipe strain happens when the piping is not adequately supported, either by the use of pipe supports underneath (stiff legs), hangers, or both. It can cause problems when bolting up flanges and can contribute to premature seal failure. Pipe strain can also move the pump or base. For those performing precision shaft alignment, this can…
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Collecting vibration data is a crucial step in a reliability program. However, it is just one step in the process. Consistently collecting accurate data under varying operating conditions is essential for effective analysis and maintenance. Operating conditions such as speed, load, and production processes must be meticulously documented and followed to maintain consistent data amplitudes…
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Acoem is a renowned Laser Shaft Alignment Systems manufacturer, offering the AT-Series range of tools tailored to different applications and requirements. The lineup includes the AT-100, AT-200, AT-300, AT-400, and EXO, each designed to address specific alignment challenges across various machinery types. This article aims to highlight the benefits of the AT-Series of tools and…
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Vibration data was taken on a motor/pump during initial training on the Acoem Falcon. This pump was chosen based on history and a visual inspection. The visual inspection pointed towards a potential misalignment issue. Misalignment Diagnosis The Accurex software in the Falcon diagnosed misalignment. This was confirmed by the Acoem EVO laser alignment tool.…
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Editor’s Note: This Blog is authored by Brian Rimmer (Freudenberg) & Stan Riddle (Acoem USA) Acoem USA recently provided dynamic balancing training for Freudenberg in Durham, NC, using an Acoem Falcon vibration analyzer/balancer they had purchased. During the class, Acoem was asked to assist in balancing a large primary air fan. Inspection of the…
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Acoem’s Bearing Defender sensor is a true wireless 3-channel accelerometer. It can be used with a tablet or smartphone to detect common vibration problems quickly and easily on a machine-with no training or certification required. It can be used standalone (with a smartphone or other device for the display), or in conjunction with Acoem’s more…
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Condition monitoring is by no means a new concept in industry. In fact, it is so widely regarded as a best practice, that it becomes commonplace in more industries each year. With this increase in awareness, we have seen an influx of options over the years. Simple overall meters, portable analyzers, wired continuous systems, and…
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Recently I conducted training at a location that had quite a large population of centrifugal pumps, the majority of which were overhung pumps. As you can see from the diagram below, the overhung pump casing bolts to the volute by a ring of bolts in a circular flange. Issues with Bolt Bound and…
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During a recent balancing class, I was requested to help the customer balance a couple of fans. Typically, our services team does this, but I agreed to help. When we got to this rooftop penthouse, I noticed a few things: The fan wheel, housing, and shaft were coated in a fairly thick coat of rust…
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A customer called me recently with concerns about a pump alignment job he completed about six months earlier. He had checked the alignment again and found that the alignment values changed. He was concerned that he had done something wrong. I explained to him that he was performing the alignment correctly, however, the machine could…
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The Journey of Reliability A machine is identified by the vibration analyst and recommendations are made for repair, the planner orders the parts, management gets together and determines when the repairs are made, and the maintenance team carries out the plan to replace the defective component. Success! We averted disaster once again! … And the…
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V-belts are cheap, right? That’s what most people in industry think, but a dumpster full of worn-out belts represents a good amount of money. Not only that, but the time required to change belts, along with any downtime, can be significant. Make Belt Drives Efficient Belt drives need four things to make them efficient: Proper…
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An often-overlooked precision maintenance tool is the V-belt tension gauge. Many maintenance technicians believe they can just go by “feeling” for what proper belt tension should be. In our Reliable Precision Maintenance (RPM) course, we often let mechanics tension the belts to what they “feel” is correct. Then we check the tension with a V-belt…
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