In vibration analysis, three key parameters—amplitude, frequency, and phase—are used to identify machinery issues and determine their severity. Each plays a unique role: amplitude reveals the severity of the problem, frequency identifies the nature of the problem, and phase provides insight into how vibration signals move in relation to one another. What is Phase…
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Basic machine setups are typically made to collect all the data we need for each asset. This is not always possible or reasonable as we would spend far more time collecting a massive amount of rarely used data. So, we compromise by creating additional readings on the fly to get the best of both worlds.…
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When companies seek a laser alignment tool, they often struggle to determine which option is best for their specific requirements. Some may opt for a “cheap” solution and choose the least expensive model, while others aim for “the best” without fully understanding what “the best” entails for their situation. “The best laser alignment tool” is…
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When two vibrations with similar frequencies occur together, a phenomenon called “beating” takes place. This is like hearing two musical notes that are slightly out of tune – the combined sound gets louder and softer in a rhythmic pattern. In industrial settings, beating caused by nearby machines can lead to severe vibrations, even machine failure.…
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A few years back, we posted a blog about one of the most common vibration signatures measured on pumps: turbulence. Causes of Turbulence in Pump Systems Several different things can cause turbulence in a pump system: Cavitation: when “cavities” of low-pressure vapor bubbles form in the suction side of the pump. Aeration or Air Entrapment:…
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Sampling frequency can be a confusing component of building a time waveform. What makes it confusing for many analysts who are learning Level III concepts is that it is always described in conjunction with a number of samples, resolution, and bandwidth. For this article, we will only focus on breaking out this one simple concept.…
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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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When it comes to monitoring the vibration of machinery throughout your plant, there are several factors to consider in order to determine the best strategy for you. Each piece of equipment should be handled individually, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach with purely wireless sensors, wired systems, or route-based collection. This type of strategy could…
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The world of Condition Monitoring (CM) has undergone a remarkable transformation since the early 2000s. This blog post chronicles the experience of a mechanical engineer who entered the industrial reliability field fresh out of university, a time when CM wasn’t even part of the curriculum. It felt like graduating doctors weren’t trained on medical devices…
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Setting up vibration alarms in a vibration analysis program can be challenging. Questions such as whether to use overall alarms for acceleration, velocity, or displacement, and whether to measure RMS, peak, or peak-to-peak values can complicate the process. However, the ISO standard 20816-3 provides a straightforward solution. Utilizing ISO Standard 20816-3 This standard offers…
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There are times when you will observe sidebands in the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) spectrum. These sidebands are a common occurrence and are often linked to specific mechanical and electrical issues such as gear mesh frequencies, inner race bearing faults, and various electrical anomalies. Understanding their significance requires a deeper examination. Sidebands provide critical insights…
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