1. Problem description and scope
This is a manual for diagnosing excessive oscillations in rotating equipment including turbines, compressors, electric motors and pumps. Excessive vibration is considered critical because it can cause damage to bearings, vibrating assemblies, and the mechanical structure. The problem can occur in a variety of production conditions, including load changes, lack of lubrication, or exceptional operating conditions.
2. Preventive measures
Use personal protective equipment (PPE):Perform lockout/tagout when measuring or repairing equipment with stored energy. All mechanical energy sources are disconnected before vibration measurement.
- Gloves
- Glasses
- Pants with steel inserts
- Cascade
3. Necessary diagnostic tools
| Name of the tool | Model/Spec | Measuring range | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vibration analyzer | Model 3320, Keysight | 0–10,000 Hz | Analysis of the vibration spectrum |
| Thermal camera | FLIR T1030sc | -20°C to 650°C | Detection of thermal anomalies |
| Multimeter | Fluke 87V | 0–2000 V, 0–200 mA | Measurement of electrical parameters |
| Micrometer | Mitutoyo 510-220 | 0–25 mm | Measurement of distances and clearances |
| Spectrograph | Model 3320, Keysight | 0–10,000 Hz | Analysis of vibration frequencies |
4. Check before starting diagnostics
| Check | action |
|---|---|
| Current conditions | Record temperature, humidity, rotation speed |
| Recent changes | Check the change of lubrication, installation of parts, load |
| A history of anxiety | Write down alarm codes, time of occurrence |
5. Systematic diagnostic scheme
- Symptom: Excessive vibration
- Measure the vibration amplitude (mm/s) on the bearings and housing
- If the amplitude exceeds 4.5 mm/s, perform the diagnostic scheme
- Symptom: Irregular oscillations
- Use spectrograph to analyze frequencies
- If the vibration frequency corresponds to 1x rotation, there is a possible lack of balance
- Symptom: Vibration at different loads
- Measure vibration at different speeds
- If the vibration increases, there may be a lack of balance or a difference from the center
- Symptom: Vibration when working with high load
- Check the condition of the bearings
- If there is damage, the bearing may be defective
- Symptom: Vibration when reducing speed
- Measure vibration at different speeds
- If the vibration decreases, resonance is possible
6. Matrix of differences of causes
| Symptom | Probable causes (by level of probability) | Diagnostic test | Answer if the reason is confirmed |
|---|---|---|---|
| High vibration amplitude | 1. Unevenness of the mass (embalsage) | Measure the frequency of 1x rotation | The vibration frequency corresponds to 1x |
| High vibration amplitude | 2. Improper centering | Measure the frequency from 2x to 4x | The vibration frequency corresponds to 2x or 4x |
| High vibration amplitude | 3. Bearing defect | Measure the frequency of 1x rotation | The vibration frequency corresponds to 1x |
| High vibration amplitude | 4. Resonance | Measure the vibration frequency at different speeds | Vibration increases at certain speeds |
7. Analysis of root causes
7.1. Mass unevenness (embalsage)
Embalsage occurs due to the uneven distribution of mass on the rotary assembly. This results in a vibration at a frequency of 1x rotation. If this is not corrected, bearing damage, shaft wear, or housing damage may occur.
7.2. Incorrect centering
Incorrect centering occurs due to the difference in the centers of rotation of the axes. This results in a 2x or 4x frequency vibration. If not corrected, crown damage, axle chipping, or body chipping occurs.
7.3. Bearing defect
Bearing failure can be caused by damage, wear, or improper installation. The vibration occurs at a frequency of 1x. If not corrected, damage to the shaft, housing or other components will occur.
7.4. Resonance
Resonance occurs when the frequency of vibration matches the natural frequency of the system. Vibration increases at certain speeds. If not corrected, damage to the shaft, housing or other components will occur.
8. Step-by-step correction procedures
8.1. Correction of mass unevenness (embalsage)
- Measure the vibration amplitude at 1x frequency
- Perform balancing using a balancing state
- Check the vibration amplitude after balancing
- If the amplitude is below 4.5 mm/s, it is solved
8.2. Correcting incorrect centering
- Measure the vibration amplitude at 2x or 4x frequency
- Center using templates or screws
- Check the vibration amplitude after centrifugation
- If the amplitude is below 4.5 mm/s, it is solved
8.3. Correction of a bearing defect
- Measure the vibration amplitude at 1x frequency
- Measure the temperature of the bearing
- Replace the bearing
- Check the vibration amplitude after replacement
- If the amplitude is below 4.5 mm/s, it is solved
8.4. Correction of resonance
- Measure the vibration amplitude at different speeds
- Determine the frequency at which the vibration increases
- Change the rotation speed or install a damper
- Check the vibration amplitude after the changes
- If the amplitude is below 4.5 mm/s, it is solved
9. Prevention methods
| The root cause | Prevention strategy | Monitoring method | Recommended interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass unevenness | Periodic balancing | Vibration measurement | Annual |
| Incorrect centering | Periodic check of centration | Vibration measurement | Annual |
| Bearing defect | Periodic inspection of bearings | Temperature measurement | Annual |
| Resonance | Changing the speed or installing a damper | Vibration measurement | Annual |
10. Spare parts and components
| Component description | Specification | When to replace | UNITEC-D category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bearing | ISO 492, ISO 286 | After measuring vibration and temperature | Bearings |
| Balancing state | ISO 1940 | After changes in working conditions | Balancing state |
| Damper | ISO 1847 | After the resonance is detected | Dampers |
| Centering screw | ISO 4762 | After changes in centrifugation | Screws |
For spare parts visit: https://www.unitecd.com/e-catalog/
11. Links
- DSTU 3028-95: Actions with electrical equipment
- ISO 10816-1: Vibration measurement
- EN 60034-1: Operating conditions of electric motors
- CE, UkrSEPRO: Product certification
- UNITEC-D Technical Guides: Service Manual