GENERAL IMPORTANCE OF THE WORK

• reduced downtime
• increased machine life (M.T.B.F.)
• eliminates unnecessary overhauls and standby equipment
• increased operational efficiency
• increased safety & reduced insurance premiums
• improved customer satisfaction (product quality, meeting deadlines)

SPECIFIC MOTIVATION FOR THE WORK

The principal purpose of predictive maintenance is to provide support to the existing maintenance program. By detecting pending failures and discovering root causes of problems, future failures can be averted.

OVERALL SCOPE OF THE WORK

Periodic inspections of vibration parameters are performed. Measurements usually require no interference with the operation of the machine, therefore production may continue uninterrupted. The specific objective is to detect machine defects before they become severe enough to affect machine performance. Early detection allows planning of maintenance activities.

DETAILS OF THE WORK

Vibration data is measured at specific points and recorded for reference. Data is then analyzed for indications of vibration behavior similar to known defects such as:

• Unbalance
• bent shaft
• lost parts from rotating component
• misalignment
• mechanical looseness
• clearance induced vibration
• foundation distortion
• seal rubs
• axial rotor rubs
• piping forces
• bearing eccentricity
• bearing defects and damage
• coupling and gear inaccuracies
• critical speeds
• resonant vibrations
• drive belt problems
• aerodynamic and hydraulic forces
• oil whirl
• dry whirl
• resonant whirl
• friction induced whirl
• out of round rotors
• rotor/stator misalignment
• elliptical stator bore
• defective bars
• bent rotor shaft
• rotor not electrically centered

RESULTS

A report containing the findings and recommendations of the analyst is presented to the parties responsible for corrective action as well as other interested parties (management, production, contractors, etc.).

Documentation is the cornerstone of a successful predictive maintenance program. My personal experience has shown that it is more than a mere convenience to see things in black and white (or color if you have a nice printer).

Terms of use of this document: This document is free for unlimited distribution, provided it is unmodified. No warranty of this information is expressed or implied Payments to Christopher for the effort involved in compiling this information is greatly appreciated. Formatted for viewing on 800 X 600 resolution. All graphics were designed and created by Christopher Olsen, use of these graphics for purposes other than this document is prohibited.

[Sixteen-Eleven, Inc.] [Disclaimer]
Last updated: November 24, 2002