There is a difference between using a predictive technology for troubleshooting and using it in the context of a condition based maintenance program. In the latter, it is extremely important to define and standardize test procedures in order to insure that the machines are always tested in exactly the same way year after year. This…
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Condition monitoring is a process of using a technology to detect changes in machine health over time in order to make a prognosis about when the machine will likely fail and to plan repairs or overhaul before that point. The frequency with which one takes measurements will depend on the machine, its current condition, and…
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A bump test is used as a quick and easy method to look for natural frequencies (related to resonance) in a structure. A bump test is conducted by hitting the structure with a moderately soft object like a 2×4 in order to make it ring in the same way one would hit a bell to…
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In condition monitoring programs, a technology will be employed to detect a problem with a machine or asset and a repair or overhaul may be conducted based on that information. Unfortunately, the overhaul is often conducted by another individual in the plant and the reliability engineer may never find out if his or her repair…
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Understand the machine By Alan Friedman When using vibration analysis or other predictive maintenance technologies, it is important to first identify the problem you want to solve and then consider the appropriate test or technology to solve it. More often than not, the cart is put before the horse and a technology is used with…
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by Alan Friedman Presented October 2009 at CMVA Introduction Although it has been said many times, it can never be said enough, when it comes to vibration, trend, trend, trend! I cannot tell you how many times I have been asked a question like “What are the acceptable levels of vibration in a 200 HP air compressor”…
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Dealing with a reduced maintenance staff Reliable Plant: Issue: 2/2009 The economic downturn is, or will soon, affect every one of us, which means we, once again, are going to be asked to do more with less. As maintenance departments lose personnel, decisions will have to be made on how to continue to keep operations…
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Why PdM Programs Fail: Misuse of Technology by Alan Friedman Originally published here: http://reliabilityweb.com/index.php/articles/why_pdm_programs_fail_misuse_of_technology/ A very good mechanic knows that you need the right tool for the job, but a common problem with PdM programs is that sometimes people acquire the tool before fully understanding what problem needs to be fixed. Of course, when you…
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Why PdM Programs Fail: Lack of Good Partnering -Alan Friedman Many companies have failed to experience the 10:1, 20:1 or even 30:1 ROI promised with the adoption of a Predictive Maintenance (PdM) or Condition Monitoring (CM) program. In recent years, the industry has seen a trend towards outsourcing these monitoring functions to experienced third parties.…
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Why PdM Programs Fail: Personnel Issues By Alan Friedman Many facilities and enterprises have failed to achieve the 10:1, 20:1 or even 30:1 Return on Investment (ROI) often promised with the introduction of a Predictive Maintenance (PdM) program. Investments have been made in monitoring equipment and training but, unfortunately in many instances, data collectors are…
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Why do PdM Programs fail? Originally published here: http://reliabilityweb.com/index.php/articles/why_do_predictive_maintenance_programs_fail/#! by Alan Friedman In the past few years we have witnessed a marked change in predictive maintenance (PdM) practices whereby more and more companies are choosing to outsource their programs. While many facilities routinely calculate 20:1 return on investment metrics, others cynically refer to aging data…
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What to Look for in a Vibration Consultant By Alan Friedman The following provides an introduction to vibration analysis technology and methodology with a focus on what to look for in a vibration analysis consultant. Many corporations today are looking to outsource machinery condition monitoring programs, while others wish to have an outside vibration consultant…
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