Condition Monitoring at Norske Skog

In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and burgeoning data, industries are constantly seeking methods to enhance efficiency, minimize downtime, and optimize asset utilization. One such method that has emerged at the forefront is Condition Based Maintenance (CBM); a sophisticated, data-driven approach to asset maintenance.

A shaft centerline diagram is a plot used in the vibration analysis of journal bearings. It is also called a shaft average centerline diagram. The purpose of this graph is to display the average position of the rotor in the bearing. In short, for different bearing types, there is an expected or “normal” position of the shaft in the bearing. If this position changes, it can indicate a problem.

In its simplest form, vibration can be considered to be the oscillation or repetitive motion of an object around an equilibrium position. The equilibrium position is the position the object will attain when the force acting on it is zero. This type of vibration is called "whole body motion", meaning that all parts of the body are moving together in the same direction at any point in time.

Detailing condition-based monitoring methods like shock pulse monitoring (SPM), vibration analysis, essential care practices, and contamination control, this month's newsletter walks you through practical steps to maximize bearing life and keep your equipment running smoothly.

Many power generation steam turbine generators today are required in service well beyond their intended lifetimes. Dismantling for inspection is expensive, and owners need to consider all relevant information in making the decision. Application of condition monitoring in all the applicable methods is justified, with each showing different degradation modes. Performance analysis is less well publicised, yet unlike vibration analysis and oil debris analysis, it will show conditions which reduce machine efficiency and output, such as deposits on blades and erosion of internal clearances. The paper outlines, with examples, some condition monitoring techniques that have contributed to retaining some large fossil machines in service for up to 17 years without opening high-pressure sections.

Condition Monitoring when used to drive reliability improvement offers diagnostics, information and data for Root Cause Analysis and equipment redesign, along with verification of defect or design correction. Condition monitoring applied proactively is a context embracing world class reliability maintenance concepts.

In this paper I will outline some of the key business opportunities and issues which are driving change in the industry, summarize some of the resulting trends, as I see them, and then draw some conclusions regarding the implications of these trends for Condition Monitoring equipment manufacturers and suppliers, Condition Monitoring contractors, and organizations employing Condition Monitoring techniques.