Spectral analysis of multi-spindle machining heads

Vibration analysis can be extremely useful in predictive/ preventative maintenance. In this investigation, multi-spindle machining heads were analyzed using equipment from Technology for Energy Corporation. A spectral analysis program was also written in order to better understand black box results provided by commercial software. Three case studies indicate that gear mesh frequencies, bearing noise, and the natural frequencies of spindles and shafts represent the majority of the peaks found in the frequency spectrum for multi-spindle heads. These frequencies were calculated analytically and then identified in each frequency spectrum. The results show that in many cases the gear mesh frequencies are too close to the natural frequencies of the spindles and shafts. This causes the spindles to be excited at their natural frequency and can lead to premature failure of the spindle bearings