Industrial vibration monitoring

Industrial vibration monitoring is the process of measuring and analysing mechanical vibrations generated by machinery and equipment in industrial settings. It is used to detect and diagnose potential problems and faults such as unbalanced or misaligned components, damaged gears or worn bearings. In doing so it can help to prevent downtime, improve performance, and reduce maintenance costs. It can be performed using various techniques and instruments such as accelerometers, displacement sensors, velocity sensors and pressure sensors, which are typically placed on or near the equipment or structure to measure the vibration and various frequencies and amplitudes.

Seismic vibration monitoring equipment

Industrial vibration monitoring typically involves the use of seismic vibration sensors, originally designed to measure the vibrations of the earth, which are placed on or near the machinery or equipment being monitored. They are often used for structural health monitoring of buildings, bridges and other infrastructure as well as industrial applications including the monitoring of turbines, pumps, fans, motors, gearboxes and other components in a range of sectors including power generation, chemical plants, and processing.

Velocity transmitters such as the Metrix ST5484E are commonly specified for industrial applications to measure the velocity of rotating machinery. It incorporates a piezoelectric accelerometer, signal integrator, RMS peak detector, and 4-20mA signal conditioner into a single, robust package.

Portable and wireless vibration monitoring

Portable vibration monitoring involves using handheld or lightweight equipment, which typically includes a sensor that is placed on the equipment being monitored to measure vibration levels. These vibration meters can provide a quick indication of the overall vibration level and can be easily moved from location to location, making it ideal for maintenance teams. Wireless vibration monitoring, on the other hand, uses wireless sensors that are attached to the machine or equipment and  transmit vibration data to a central monitoring system for analysis.

Vibration switches

Vibration switches detect vibration or mechanical shock and trigger a response such as an alarm or a shutdown of machinery or equipment.  Mechanical switches use a simple mechanical mechanism that moves in response to vibration and triggers an electrical switch, while electronic vibration switches use electronic sensors such as accelerometers or piezoelectric sensors and are more sensitive and precise.

Vibration monitoring solutions from Ixthus

Take a look at the selection of vibration sensors, switches, shakers, monitors and accessories on our website. If you would like to find out more, please contact us on +44 (0) 1327 362297 or email info@ixthus.co.uk

For more information on Industrial vibration monitoring talk to Ixthus Instrumentation Ltd