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Technical data are subject to change without notice.
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Fig. 28
Systematic vibration measurement includes recording
and trending, to be able to follow the gradual change
of machine vibration over longer periods of time.
The purpose is to obtain data for condition based
maintenance. Condition based maintenance, as op-
posed to periodic overhauls, is only carried out when
machine condition measurements show that repairs
are needed. This requires measurements at regular
intervals, and the recording and evaluation of the
results.
There are no general rules about how often vibration
should be measured. The intervals between readings -
a day, a week, perhaps a whole month - depends
wholly on the individual machine, its importance for
the plant, and on the rate of change in its vibration
level.
Normal
Report change+ 1 step
Maintenance
activities
+ 2 steps
+ 3 steps
+ 4 steps
Report large increase
Report dangerous increase
Routine
maintenance
(lubrication, etc.)
Inspection,
minor repairs
Plan major
overhaul
(Shutdown)
Effect repairs
Breakdown
Vibration
measurements
To be able to plan ahead and work efficiently, a main-
tenance department needs easily interpreted informa-
tion on all significant changes in machine condition.
Reporting changes in ”steps”, rather than giving the
actual vibration severity figures, is the simplest way of
indicating the extent and urgency of a maintenance
problem.
A one step change (1.6 times increase) is generally
regarded as significant and should be reported. It is a
first warning of deteriorating condition. At this stage,
tightening a few bolts or adjusting a belt may be
sufficient to get rid of the excess vibration. A two
step increase (= one condition zone) should always be
investigated. Three steps up is a fourfold increase, an
alarming change demanding immediate action.
Systematic Vibration Monitoring