Rotating equipment, with its multiple components and sub-assemblies, is subjected to varying vibrational forces. While certain levels of vibration are inherent to the normal operation of pumps, fans, gen-sets, and similar equipment – however, sometimes vibration levels become excessive. As vibration increases equipment and supporting structures are susceptible to cracks, fatigue and catastrophic failure putting machinery, production and worker safety at risk.
When troubleshooting rotating equipment it’s critical to quickly and accurately determine the root cause of the problem(s). A cracked fan blade, bent shaft, or crumbling foundation may or may not be the result of poor design, manufacturing or installation. The culprit could be vibration originating from the unfavorable dynamic interaction of otherwise good systems/components. Troubleshooting’s is to determine the cause and correct the problem as effectively and quickly as possible.