The SDT270 system was used to collect ultrasound data at a methane plant for start-up and commissioning of newly installed equipment to get a baseline condition on the motor’s and gear reducer’s bearings and gears. We were immediately able to pinpoint a defect in the drive end motor bearing using the SDT270 as well as collect and record a sound file (play below) and present it to the customer.
After removal and inspection of the motor bearing it was found that the motor had been stored in a basement and got water into it through the electrical conduit during a monsoon storm that flooded the facility in late summer, causing the bearings to rust and corrode. It was also found that the electrical disconnect box for the motor had water in it as well.
Pump: Progressive Cavity Seepex Pump
Motor: WEG 75HP 1775 RPM
Not only were we able to identify a bearing fault but also the “smoking gun” root cause, thereby thwarting further damage in the electrical system.
After troubleshooting the entire facility we were able to save several other motors stored in the basement that had also had water exposure through the electrical conduits.
Thank you Brian Franks with JetTech Mechanical LLC for sharing this success story with us!
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Articles and Case Studies, Ultrasound by Ana Maria Delgado, CRL