Condition monitoring of rotating machinery - vibration analysis

The aim of condition monitoring is to detect defective machine components and allow timely repair before failure and secondary damage occurs. This project, in particular, covers the condition monitoring techniques applicable to rotating machinery and vibration analysis. Vibration analysis is a specialised role and equipment owners often have a limited under- standing of it. Practicing technicians also benefit from better understanding fundamental principles and ongoing training. Key to improving outcomes of CM programs is improving knowledge and understanding. Utilising overall project specifications, a schedule, flow and Gantt charts, decision trees, listing activities with diagrams and milestones ensured the orderly development of the project. Researching condition monitoring practices and standards applicable to rotating machinery led to developing required outcomes, software specifications and user requirements for a virtual training package prior to writing the Matlab program. Development of the vibration training program in line with ISO18436-2 requirements and industry recognised practices for personnel conducting and utilising vibration condition monitoring resulted in a program that is easy to use, familiarising the user with fundamental concepts and readily detectable faults. The key aspect of the project, the development of a training and awareness tool based on industry practices and expectations, is displayed in the training program. It is a tool that can help technicians and plant owners better understand and implement vibration condition monitoring and improve outcomes thus reducing costly unplanned plant outages