Cardan Alignment can be done without removing the bracket when the following requirements are met: There is enough room to rotate lasers and the shaft at least 40 degrees. A laser shaft alignment system such as the EASY-LASER XT660 or XT770 is available. The offset between machine shaft centerlines does not exceed 4 inches as […]
When purchasing vibration analysis equipment, consider the following seven factors to ensure you select the most suitable and effective solution for your specific needs: Expandability: Choose a vibration instrument that can be upgraded with additional features and measurement capabilities as your needs grow. This ensures that your investment remains valuable and relevant over time. Reporting […]
The days of measuring vibration data directly at the machine once every couple of months are starting to disappear. There is still huge value in undertaking this activity, but it’s quickly being replaced by a wide range of IIoT sensors (Industrial Internet of Things). Seemingly, one advantage is gathering data at a vastly improved rate. Rather than […]
MYTH: “It is acceptable to use a stinger attached to the vibration sensor.” TRUTH: Stingers can be attached and used with most vibration sensors. However, stingers are the least desirable method to mount the sensor to the equipment. Stingers reduce the frequency range that can be measured with the attached sensor. Also, it is very difficult to […]
For people working in the Condition Monitoring field, the sheer number of online systems being advertised in trade magazines and their advertised capabilities create both excitement and confusion. Why has there been such a surge in online systems over the past few years? Manufacturing is focused on what’s being called “Digital Factory”. Critical assets can […]
Sensoteq Kappa X wireless sensors have been deployed at a petrochemical plant in the UK to monitor machine vibration and prevent facility downtime. By using the sensor system for continuous machine monitoring, concerning defects with a vacuum pump were detected. Vibration analysts identified several issues on Analytix and calculated a fixed cost saving of $84,627.27 […]
Tired of being a vibration analyst? Sick of getting raises? Want to move to a different place of employment or collect unemployment benefits? Here’s one of the most sure-fire ways to accomplish it: Make sure nobody in management at your current employer understands how valuable your services are. Seriously now, it is essential to your […]
We know that precision shaft alignment is necessary to ensure the reliable operation of rotating machinery. This will lead to better performance and longer service life for the machine and its components. However, have you ever wondered: Is it the same to align a machine with an operating temperature of 40 °C (104 °F) and […]
Every analyst has a few things they really don’t want to hear during the course of their work. These comments often indicate that proper maintenance activities have not been performed on the equipment, or convey unrealistic expectations of the analyst’s abilities. For instance: “It has always run like that!” “It really was making a noise […]
When dealing with the alignment of a gearbox that has 3 pairs of feet, there are three possibilities when using the Easy-Laser Generation XT systems: Option 1: If the feet are located under the shaft and bearing housings, view the gearbox as a normal 4-footed machine. This will give you inboard and outboard corrections for […]
A vibration analyst is constantly viewing data and seeking to identify indications of sub-optimal physical properties indicated by specific vibratory behavior. Most complex systems (if vibration analysis is allowed to be called a system) can be broken down into simpler sub-systems. Some of us, this blogger included, benefit greatly from such simplification in the vibration […]
When we talk about industrial machinery, precision alignment plays a pivotal role in ensuring optimal performance and long life. Misalignment between rotating machines can lead to various symptoms that, if left unaddressed, can bring out significant operational issues. Whether we’re talking about pump and motor skids, turbines and compressors, or engines and generators, the impact […]
Proper location is very important when collecting vibration measurements on a belt system. If possible, one reading should be taken in line with the sheaves and one reading perpendicular to them on each bearing. Vibration data resolution should be taken into account so that proper separation between belt and driver frequencies can be obtained. Care […]
With training funds being difficult to obtain these days it is critical that we do everything possible to have a satisfactory and productive training experience. This includes evaluating whether it would be more cost-effective to attend a training class off-site (such as at a vendor’s facility) or have the course conducted at your facility. There […]
If non-repeatability is an issue and ambient vibration or mechanical looseness in the setup of the laser has been ruled out, then it may be of interest to check the bearing clearances. This can be accomplished very easily with a laser shaft alignment system. A little bit of information is necessary to accomplish this. We […]
Disclaimer: The author is not attempting to present himself as an authority on all available CM standards. This blog 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 of industrial equipment […]
When moving machines for alignment, always use jackscrews. If you don’t have them, beating on the machine frame with a steel-face hammer is a lousy idea. First, you run the risk of damaging the bearings, seals, and other delicate components in your machines. Secondly, you have little control over the magnitude of your moves. Thirdly, […]
Shaft speed of machine being analyzed Type of bearings involved (sleeve vs. rolling element) Rolling element bearing part number(s) and manufacturer(s) Internal configuration of equipment Machine History Proper data collection location Proper sensor to use for data collection Proper data collection setups to ensure correct data is collected Is the primary energy sub-synchronous, synchronous or […]
When you or your supervisor are planning attendance at a training course there is an important consideration to keep in mind. Have you met the prerequisites for the course you have selected? These prerequisites are dictated by the company presenting the course and take into account basic knowledge about the subject as well as exposure […]
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 of industrial equipment with […]