Technology Selection Guide
| Problem | Primary | Secondary |
|---|---|---|
| Bearing wear | Vibration | Ultrasound |
| Electrical connection | Thermal | Ultrasound |
| Lubrication | Ultrasound | Oil analysis |
| Imbalance | Vibration | - |
| Misalignment | Vibration | Thermal |
| Valve leak | Ultrasound | Thermal |
| Gear wear | Vibration | Oil analysis |
| Steam trap | Ultrasound | Thermal |
| Air leak | Ultrasound | - |
Electric Motors
Motor Inspection Checklist
Vibration Analysis:
- Overall velocity (mm/s RMS)
- 1× and 2× running speed amplitude
- Bearing defect frequencies (BPFO, BPFI, BSF, FTF)
- High-frequency envelope analysis
- 2× line frequency (electrical issues)
Thermal Inspection:
- Motor frame temperature
- Drive end / Non-drive end bearing temps
- ΔT between bearings (<10°C normal)
- Junction box connections
Ultrasound:
- Bearing noise level (dB)
- +8 dB from baseline = lubrication needed
- +12 dB from baseline = onset of bearing failure
- +16 dB from baseline = bearing damage
Pumps (Centrifugal)
Pump Inspection Checklist
Vibration:
- 1× RPM (imbalance, bent shaft)
- Vane pass frequency (# vanes × RPM)
- Bearing frequencies
- Broadband energy (cavitation indicator)
- Axial vs. radial ratio (>50% axial = misalignment)
Operational:
- Discharge pressure stability
- Suction pressure (NPSH adequate?)
- Seal/packing leakage (drops/min)
Minimum Inspection Frequencies
| Equipment | Critical | Important | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motors | Monthly | Quarterly | Semi-annual |
| Pumps | Monthly | Quarterly | Semi-annual |
| Compressors | Monthly | Quarterly | Quarterly |
| Gearboxes | Monthly | Quarterly | Semi-annual |
| Electrical | Quarterly | Semi-annual | Annual |
| Steam traps | By pressure (DOE): 150 psig and above, weekly to monthly; 30 to 150 psig, monthly to quarterly; below 30 psig, annually | ||
Symbols Key:
◆ Primary technique (high detection) · ◇ Secondary technique · ○ Optional
◆ Primary technique (high detection) · ◇ Secondary technique · ○ Optional