Before going on a trip, we typically plan ahead. What we are going to do, what we are going to pack, where we are going to go, and places to visit each day of the trip. When starting an alignment job, it is not that different. We must plan ahead. This means being ready to […]
In recent years, “Defect Elimination” has become a hot topic in the reliability world. But what exactly does defect elimination mean? How does it differ from other maintenance practices? Is it more than just a new way to describe planned and predictive maintenance? Let me start by answering a more basic question. What is a […]
Unbalance occurs when the rotor’s mass is no longer at the center of rotation. Unbalance can be caused by many factors: Assembly error Machine tolerances Eccentric components Wear Corrosion Thermal distortion Mechanical distortion Material buildup Bent components Broken components Likewise, many things can also prevent the successful correction of unbalance. Equipment resonance, bearing issues, product […]
Considering an Acoustic Imaging Camera? Read My Buying Tips First Each year our condition monitoring world experiences innovation at some level, be it great or small. Even through a pandemic, leading tech companies continue to transform their solutions for the greater good of reliability. A recent example is the arrival of Acoustic Imaging Camera technology, also known as ultrasonic imagers. Acoustic imaging cameras combine extremely sensitive multi-frequency sound sensors […]
March 2021 – Pumps & systems In olden times, when hard work beyond the ability of a few humans was needed, a horse or a team of oxen was the solution. Even greater power requirements were fulfilled by wind or watermills. This form of driving machinery lasted for centuries and the mechanical components involved required […]
Disclaimer: The author is not trying to present himself as an authority on all available CM standards. This blog post is simply an attempt to help those who may be unaware that such guidance exists or of the extent of such standards. We previously discussed a series of international standards pertaining to condition monitoring […]
When you are bolt-bound or base-bound on a critical machine train—usually one that is very difficult to move—it is not enough to just fix (make stationary) individual pairs of feet to obtain alternative shimming or moving solutions. You need even more flexibility, such as the ability to minimize moves across all the feet. The concept […]
We previously discussed in this series, Acoustic Lubrication Implementation – Part 3 – 4 Tips to Assemble the Right Team. In this follow-up blog, we will discuss The Right Data. “Opinion should spark your ideas, but data should direct your decisions” I promised it is time to touch technology in Part 4. Well, I lied […]
Disclaimer: The author is not trying to present himself as an authority on all available CM standards. This blog post is simply an attempt to help those who may be unaware that such guidance exists or of the extent of such standards. We previously discussed a series of international standards pertaining to condition monitoring […]
When performing shaft alignment, the alignment is typically measured by rotating both shafts at the same time. Why is this? The reason is that the coupling is already installed, so it is convenient to do. The other reason is that rotating both shafts is the only way to measure the true rotating centerline of the […]
The Problem: The customer complained of excessive vibration on a wastewater pump driven by a diesel engine. Upon performing an alignment check, the machine shafts were found to be grossly misaligned. Furthermore, proper alignment was found to be impeded by a base-bound condition of the engine combined with external horizontal forces caused by the exhaust […]
We previously discussed in this series, Acoustic Lubrication Implementation Part 2 – 7 Diagnosis To Get You The Right Mindset. In this follow-up blog, we will discuss The Right Team. “Environment Shapes Behavior”- Jacque Fresco By now you got the big picture and right mindset, now it is time to gather the right team. […]
Disclaimer: The author is not trying to present himself as an authority on all available CM standards. This blog post is simply an attempt to help those who may be unaware that such guidance exists or of the extent of such standards. We previously discussed a series of international standards pertaining to condition monitoring […]
The following tips are ideas to consider for when “the going gets tough”, meaning that problems like residual soft foot, “bad geometry”, or becoming bolt-bound impede your ability to easily obtain an excellent alignment. But first, a few definitions: Residual soft foot: More soft foot than you are comfortable with, but can’t do anything about. […]
I’m a potential failure! I am the result of improper equipment design, procurement, installation, maintenance, and operation. I exist under extreme conditions for which I was never designed. I haven’t hidden or been silent, but most have ignored me and all have allowed me to grow. I’ll become a risk of severe damage and injury. […]
We previously discussed in this series, Acoustic Lubrication Implementation – Part 1 The Big Picture. In this follow-up blog, we will discuss The Right Mindset. “MAN CANNOT THINK OUTSIDE HIS CULTURE”- JACQUE FRESCO To lay the foundation for implementation, the right mindset and culture must take top priority. Both technology and skills need a […]
Disclaimer: The author is not trying to present himself as an authority on all available CM standards. This blog post is simply an attempt to help those who may be unaware that such guidance exists or of the extent of such standards. We previously discussed a series of international standards pertaining to condition monitoring […]
In general, laser shaft alignment systems have increased the ability to eliminate misalignment defects. There are many systems on the market, with varying capabilities, but the core benefit has been that the computer and laser work together to create an alignment report that can be used to assess and determine corrective action. With advances in […]
We welcome you to read the previous blog in this series, “What is Machine Train Alignment and How Important Is It? Part 2” ANALYSIS 2: THE REFERENCE MACHINE IN THE TRAIN CANNOT BE MOVED Now we have to face the situation of the big 172 mils moves at DF2, Compressor 3 back foot. For this, […]
I was taught by people much more clever than me not to pay attention to features, but look out for benefits. Not only me but the entire team I belong to has the same mindset. A real journey that everyone in the industry should take when considering changes or improvements through technology & culture is […]