Noise in a vibration signal can creep in from background vibration sources such as noise generated by the machine being monitored, or from adjacent machinery. Typically the noise signal has low amplitudes and is close to zero in the spectral data; however, in some instances…
read moreTraditionally, most compressors are reciprocating compressors; fluid is compressed through piston mechanism, positive displacement. Reciprocating compressors can be used in a wide range of applications from household to gas and oil refineries. Today, centrifugal compressors are common and are used to increase pressure of a…
read moreThere are five main stages in order to successfully accomplish vibration analysis and run a good precision maintenance program; they are: 1. Detection 2. Analysis 3. Root-Cause Analysis 4. Repair and Maintenance 5. Verification Detection The first step in vibration analysis is detecting a problem. This can…
read moreThe spring rate/stiffness calculation has been covered in the previous blog article. Springs are not designed to be stretched or compressed beyond their elastic limits, i.e. springs obey Hooke’s law, F = k x d. F = force applied on the springk = spring rate…
read moreWear can be caused by the relative motion between two surfaces that are in close contact, causing deformation or removal of the material; this is known as mechanical wear. Wear can also be caused by other sources such as harsh or reactive chemicals, or cavitation.…
read moreIndustrial fans are mostly used to transfer fluid, typically gas or air in many applications. Obtaining high performance fans has been a challenge due to vibration-related issues and harsh environments: temperature, fluid, and humidity. Vibration has been known to reduce the lifetime of fans, decrease…
read moreInfrared thermography, or thermal imaging, can be used as a means of detecting radiated energy/heat from objects. Thermography can be a convenient method for detecting excessive heat build-up, which may be attributed to conditions of increased mechanical wear, electrical faults, steam leaks, to name a…
read moreBelt drives are commonly used to transmit power. They are cheap and easy to maintain. However they are often a source of vibration due to misalignment, belt wear, and belt resonance. Belt misalignment can be identified from frequency spectrum, 1X vibration in both the radial…
read moreMachinery in industrial environments typically generate a lot of noise. Other than being very loud, these noise emissions can sometimes provide clues to the condition of a particular machine. Measuring ultrasonics can be useful in detecting: • Steam and air leaks • Lubrication issues •…
read moreHelical coil springs are used widely in applications such as washing machines, compressors, etc. It is important to know the spring stiffness/spring rate when designing a spring-damper-mass system. Natural frequency of the system is affected by the spring stiffness and mass of the system. Spring…
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