5 - Vibration analysis and instrumentation

Abstract

This chapter focuses on Vibration Analysis and Instrumentation. Vibration analysis has been simplified greatly with the aid of new instrumentation. Instrumentation is now available to provide values that can be read, recorded, and understood with meaning. New instrumentation is now easy to use, extremely reliable, and does not require subjective interpretation. The simplest meters are low in cost, and any operator can be instructed to set the switch to read velocity. A tunable filter is generally required to analyze vibration. The basic analysis involves reading the broad band amplitude and then determining the various discrete frequencies present in the machine. New developments in electronics in recent years have resulted in the development of a compact battery-powered instrument using integrated circuitry. When information is gathered properly with new and simpler instruments, the data can be interpreted more easily, thus, leading to correct solutions. The task of vibration analysis, therefore, has become much easier and simpler. In addition, great benefits can be realized with longer equipment life and lowered operational cost.