Handheld Condition Monitoring

In its most basic form, vibration condition monitoring can be inexpensive and very simple to achieve. Using a basic handheld vibration monitor such as the Castle GA2002 or GA2005, measurements can be taken at a number of pre-specified locations on equipment and machinery on a regular basis. If each set of measurements is then compared to a baseline and previous readings, then a picture of the change in vibration levels can be seen. This can then form the basis of decisions about maintenance planning and failure prevention.

The Castle GA2002 Vibration meter is a basic monitor, giving a simple readout of the required values on-screen. A magnet or spike probe is supplied as a means of connecting with the machinery and readings are shown on the screen, which can then be logged for later analysis.

The Castle GA2005S Data-logging vibration meter is a more sophisticated instrument that can data log values into its on-board memory and download these directly into a PC, where trend graphs are automatically generated giving an instant picture of the vibration changes over time.

Diagnostic Vibration Monitoring

Following the identification of a vibration problem, it might not be clear what is causing the levels or what the fault might be. Rather than stripping a machine or component into all its basic parts, it is possible to look at the vibration in more detail with a view to narrowing down possible areas of failure or poor performance.

There are a number of processes that can be used based of FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analysis, which is a method of breaking the vibration level down into its frequency components. Software packages would normally then be used to plot the data onto charts to show patterns or trends that can lead to a diagnosis. Carrying out this type of analysis does require some specific knowledge and skills, which is where the Castle Training Academy can be of help, with its Diagnostic Vibration Monitoring course.

The SVAN 954 is a digital, Type 1 vibration analyser. This Instrument can be used for general vibration measurements and machinery condition monitoring. It is programmed with virtually all of the required frequency filters (e.g. VelMF meeting ISO 10816 standard). Using a powerful digital signal processor, the SVAN 954 is also a frequency analyser giving results in octave bands and FFT, which gives it the capability to perform diagnostic analysis on machinery components.