Online Condition Monitoring Reaps Benefits for Borealis

Westar is currently evaluating the implementation of a new database and route collection system. This new component to the infrared program will allow for Web-based tracking and trending of all infrared projects and will greatly enhance the efficiency of our program. It will also allow for simultaneous imbedding, reporting, tracking, and trending of the ultrasonic technology being brought into the thermography program.

The question I posed is: Are the harmonics real? In other words, although the mass is still only bouncing up and down 30 times per second, is there actually real vibration occurring at 60, 90 and 120 Hz, etc.? OR are these just artifacts of the FFT?

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.

When it comes to sheaves, proper vibration analysis is critical for identifying faults and preventing costly damage to equipment. These vibration analysis tips highlight two common sheave-related issues—eccentricity and misalignment—and presents practical advice for diagnosing them.

If thermography is new in your plant, the first few inspection cycles may yield a large number of finds. Subsequent inspections should go more smoothly. After about three cycles, reorganize the routes so they are more efficient, and add new routes and equipment into the inspection cycle as necessary. The optimum frequency of inspection will be determined by the needs of the equipment assets. As they age, are heavily loaded or are poorly maintained, inspections may become more frequent.

Integrity Testing is a proactive approach to preventive maintenance for Plate and Tubular Heat Exchangers in sanitary processing environments. This process allows for the early identification of potential leaks and failures, serving as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly form of preventive maintenance.   

Why Balance? All rotating components experience significant quality and performance improvements if balanced. Balancing is the process of minimizing vibration, noise and bearing wear of rotating bodies. It is accomplished by reducing the centrifugal forces by aligning the principal inertia axis with the geometric axis of rotation through the adding or removing of material. In order to understand the basics of balancing it is necessary to define the following fundamental terms.