Vibration Isolation Techniques and Systems
James E. Berry, P.E., Technical Associates of Charlotte, P.C.

This session introduces the often misunderstood concept of "Vibration Isolation" and to provide information and drawings of a series of commonly available Isolation systems. The pros and cons of each major isolation type will be discussed and participants will understand how to prevent analysts from inserting improper isolation mechanisms that can actually amplify vibration rather than isolating it at all (a common occurrence).

Another highlight will be to point out the distinct difference between "vibration isolation" and "vibration damping". Often, inexperienced analysts will refer to damping treatments as isolators; or vice versa. Examples of each tool will be provided. In this session, you'll learn the information they need to properly select the vibration isolation system you need for your specific machine or structure that will minimize the undesirable transmission of vibration from one system to another. In addition, actual isolation systems that have been designed and installed will be discussed.

Advanced Spectral Analysis
Pete Bechard, PdMA Corporation

As industries continue to look for new methods of identifying and predicting equipment failures, manufacturers of predictive maintenance equipment are developing new tools to add to their arsenal of available technologies. Newly developed methods of extracting information from the line current supplied to a motor have uncovered information on both the electrical and mechanical health of the equipment. Now tracking and trending of information deep into the load and shaft line components can be done through the line current, going well beyond just the power supply and motor.

In this session you'll learn the fundamentals of these new current demodulation methods and how they are being used to identify both electrical and mechanical anomalies existing in plants today. You'll also learn how using this new feature helps bridge the communication barrier between the mechanical and electrical departments relating to vibration and electrical power analysis.

Vibration Applications with Vibrating Screens
Andy Page, Cargill Corp Nutrition

While teaching vibration theory, the mass-spring is used as a common example of cyclic motion. The motion is analyzed to define the concepts of a body oscillating about a fixed reference point. In this session, you'll learn how the same concepts apply to vibrating screens and feeders and how problems can easily be identified using a two channel analyzer. The presenter will demonstrate how screen performance data can be derived from the vibration signature.

Current Signature Analysis
Lance Bisinger, Universal Technologies

Vibration analysis has identified a possible electrical problem in your AC Induction motor, now what? Do you contact a vendor to perform traditional electrical testing, motor circuit analysis or can your vibration analyst conduct additional testing? The answer can be yes to one or all the above. In this session you'll learn about current signature analysis as an option to assist in determining a troubleshooting plan.

Finite Element Analysis: A Numerical Tool for Root Cause Analysis
Robert J. Sayer, PE, Sayer & Associates, Inc., Medina, Ohio

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a numerical technique that can be used to approximate the structural dynamic characteristics of vibrating mechanical systems. Understanding this technique is paramount to any root-cause failure study involving excessive vibrations. The Finite Element technique can be used for structural dynamic studies of existing equipment or to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of machines and structures prior to fabrication. FEA models can be used to approximate stress stiffening effects in rotating mechanical components (i.e. fan wheels, pump rotors, motor shafts). An actual case study of FEA will be presented.

Basic Techniques for Machine Fault Diagnostics
J. Michael Robichaud, P. Eng., Bretec Engineering Ltd.

Troubleshooting machinery problems is one of the most interesting and challenging aspects of vibration analysis. A broad range of diagnostic techniques may be applied using single- and multi-channel instruments, including instrument set-up, interpretation of acquired data, and (conceptual) solutions. In this session, participants will hear case study examples demonstrating the "investigative" nature of machine fault diagnostics.

Process Quality Issues Solved Using Predictive Technology
Bob Miller, IVC

All too often the tools, techniques, and results of predictive technologies are restricted to the realm of maintenance and not applied to address production quality and performance needs. When this approach is taken a whole new realm of potential savings and improvements can be attained.

A bearing in the early stages of failure may very well be able to operate for an additional six months, which is a good thing from a maintenance standpoint. If, however, that bearing is tied to a quality critical process and results in downgraded or unacceptable product, the cost differential between the cost of a replacement bearing and the potential costs associated with customer quality claims, product containments scenarios, etc. are far more significant. In this session you'll learn how applying even basic predictive techniques to both maintenance and production issues, and communicating to not only the maintenance group, but also the applicable production and quality personnel, phenomenal gains can be attained through improved utilization of predictive techniques.

Field Balancing Tips
Lance Bisinger, Universal Technologies

You have confirmed the existence of an unbalance condition on your machine; now it is time to conduct the balance. In this session you'll learn time saving techniques that takes you far beyond the data collector's balancing program.

How to Implement an Effective Chain Wear Monitoring Program
Rod Reinholdt, QCTL, Inc.

In this session you'll learn about chain wear monitoring, testing and inspection capabilities and the quality program. You'll get a detailed description of the technology available including: infrared photoelectric, technology capabilities and accuracy. A discussion of the monitoring process; in-motion monitoring, calibration requirements and abnormality marking is also included. You'll learn about the equipment requirements and personnel requirements for implementing a chain wear monitoring program including training, reporting, analysis and application.

In many modern condition monitoring programs phase (relative motion) data is rarely used. Often a lack of understanding of how to acquire, record and interpret phase data leads to mixed results and this very useful analysis technique falls into disuse. This paper discusses the application of phase analysis, the acquisition of phase data using modern instruments and its interpretation. A simple step by step procedure for interpretation of phase data will be presented.

Testing Methods to Define the Structural Dynamic Response of Mechanical Systems
Robert J. Sayer, PE, Sayer & Associates, Inc.

Experimental Modal Analysis ( EMA) and Operating Deflection Shape (ODS) Analysis are experimental techniques used to animate the structural dynamic response of mechanical systems. An EMA provides mode shapes associated with natural frequencies of a mechanical system. An ODS provides an animation of the deformation characteristics of a vibrating mechanical system during operation. The animations can be extremely helpful in defining areas of structural weakness or identifying areas of mechanical looseness. In cases of resonant excitation, the animation techniques can be used to evaluate the potential benefit of structural and/or mechanical modifications.

How to Inspect and Diagnose Gears

Practical Applications for Phase Analysis in Modern Condition Monitoring Programs
Timothy A. Dunton, Universal Technologies, Inc.

In many modern condition monitoring programs phase (relative motion) data is rarely used. Often a lack of understanding of how to acquire, record and interpret phase data leads to mixed results and this very useful analysis technique falls into disuse. This paper discusses the application of phase analysis, the acquisition of phase data using modern instruments and its interpretation. A simple step by step procedure for interpretation of phase data will be presented.

Peakvue Methodology and Case Studies
By Jim Crowe, Alcoa, Inc.

Peakvue is a patented technology developed by CSI to measure short term, high frequency energy generated by fatiguing, impacting, and friction. These stress waves are generally emitted by bearing faults and lubrication problems. A general overview of the process and how it works will be presented along with several case studies.

These studies will present cases in which this technology was used to detect early faults in bearings, detect faults in very slow speed applications, and detect lubrication problems due to lack of lubrication and using the wrong lubrication. It will also demonstrate the need for consistent sensor mounting techniques and what to expect using different sensor mounting techniques.

Applying Wireless Accelerometers in Condition Monitoring Systems
Buddy Lee, Machinery Analysis and Reliability Systems

Wireless sensor technology has progressed rapidly over the last five years and has overcome many of the obstacles standing in the way of ubiquitous deployment. This paper explores the development of, lessons learned, progress of the underlying technologies and business case that make wireless accelerometers practical for today's condition monitoring program.