7 - Vibration Monitoring and Analysis

Abstract

Vibration monitoring and analysis is applicable to all mechanical equipment, although a common (but invalid) assumption is that it is limited to simple rotating machinery with running speeds above 600 revolutions per minute (rpm). All mechanical equipment in motion generates a vibration profile, or signature, that reflects its operating condition. This is true, regardless of speed or whether the mode of operation is rotation, reciprocation, or linear motion. Vibration profile analysis is a useful tool for predictive maintenance, diagnostics, and many other uses. Predictive maintenance has become synonymous with monitoring vibration characteristics of rotating machinery to detect budding problems and to head off catastrophic failure. However, vibration analysis does not provide the data required for analyzing electrical equipment, areas of heat loss, the condition of lubricating oil, or other parameters typically evaluated in a maintenance management program. Therefore, a total plant predictive maintenance program must include several techniques, each designed to provide specific information on plant equipment.