In a cardboard manufacturing facility, routine vibration measurements on a drying cylinder (rotating at 165 RPM) revealed an increase in amplitude on the drive-side bearing.
A comparative analysis between the front and drive sides showed significantly higher amplitudes on the drive side. The specific signature pointed toward an outer ring defect that was likely exacerbated by thermal expansion constraints.
Frequency spectra showed asynchronous peaks at 13.2x order with sidebands, which did not initially match standard fault frequencies for the installed bearing type. Practical Case Studies On Vibration Analysis Pdf
Converts time-domain signals into discrete frequency peaks to identify specific faults like unbalance (1x TS) or misalignment (2x, 3x TS).
Engineers examined the flow head curve and found that the system was being operated with only one pump during cold weather to save power. Frequency spectra showed asynchronous peaks at 13
Initial vibration data (acceleration time waveform) indicated a significant issue. Frequency analysis showed a bearing race defect on the outer race.
Impellers showed severe pitting, appearing as if attacked by "metal-eating termites". Vibration spectra showed broadband energy without distinct peaks—a classic sign of cavitation. In a cardboard manufacturing facility
Operating a single pump reduced the back pressure significantly (from 30 ft to 10 ft of water), causing the pump to operate outside its design parameters and into a cavitation zone .
Improved isolation of standby equipment from external vibration sources was implemented to prevent recurrence. 3. Case Study: Pump Cavitation at a Power Plant