Vibration analysis surveys

Contact Research, Investigations & Test

Machine vibration analysis

Figure 1: Measured vibration levels

BSRIA undertakes Vibration Analysis Surveys on Rotating Machinery to identify the condition of the shafts, rotating parts and bearings as detailed in ISO-10816-3. This can give early warning of upcoming failure and avoid lengthy and expensive downtime of the machine.

Measurements can also be made of Bearing Vibration BV which gives a reliable indication of bearing condition in over 80% of cases.

Figure 1 shows two identical Air Handling Units installed in a major London Hospital. Whilst Fan 2 is healthy; Fan 1 indicates severe vibration and bearing deterioration on the drive end of the motor. The motor was immediately scheduled for replacement, avoiding expensive and disruptive “downtime” if the bearing had been allowed to fail catastrophically.

Human exposure

Figure 2: Vibration levels recorded on floor two

BSRIA provides Vibration Analysis Surveys to identify and quantify vibration in the workplace in accordance with International Standard ISO 2631-2, ‘Mechanical vibration and shock – Evaluation of human exposure to whole- body vibration – Part 2: Vibration in buildings (1 Hz to 80 Hz.)’.

Figure 2 was produced in response to concerns by members of staff working in an office building that they could perceive vibration through the floor and this was detrimental to their work. The complaints only related to a particular area on the 2nd Floor, where two sections of the structure come together. The results indicate that the vibration is significantly above the human perception level and corresponds to the pattern of the “Working Day”. In all probability, it was due to the movement of the personnel within the building and not external influences, such as the nearby railway.

The owners would investigate the building structure to determine if remedial work was necessary and practicable.

Ground vibration analysis surveys

Figure 3: The chart here proves vibration levels were safely below the limits imposed by the National Grid

BSRIA undertakes Vibration Analysis Surveys to ensure that the ground vibration due to demolition, earthworks etc. does not exceed any special limitations such as National Grid requirements for Pipelines, T/SP/SSW/22.

Figure 3 relates to the need to excavate a trench across a concrete road in close proximity to high pressure gas pipelines. This was to be accomplished using a “Pecker” to break the concrete and extraction of the rubble etc. using the “digger bucket”.

The chart shows the increasing vibration level as the “Pecker” moves closer to the pipe where the sensor is located. The “Pecker” is then exchanged for the bucket and the spoil removed.

The vibration levels were safely below the limits imposed by the National Grid.

Building investigations

Consultancy including troubleshooting, failure investigations, building performance and maintenance strategy

Case study - vibration measurement of machinery

Vibration measurement survey to assess the new location of a jig grinding machinery room

Case study - vibration analysis in an office

Investigation into reported vibration problems in a prestigious office building

Instrument Solutions

Instrument sales, hire and calibration service based in Bracknell and Preston