Vibration Analysis
Is a well-established condition monitoring technique which involves attaching a transducer to the equipment (either permanently or temporarily) and measuring the vibration. The transducer installation method will depend on several factors including environment and accessibility. The data can be analysed on-site if considered urgent, or later if this is a routine survey. For equipment that has a high criticality, permanent protection systems are utilised. The data can be presented in various formats including trends, spectra and raw waveforms.
AMTS currently utilises the Machine Sentry system from AVT for vibration analysis. However, we are familiar with data collectors and software from SKF, Rockwell Automation, Pruftechnik and SPM. We can supply, set up commission and hand over on-line systems and portable systems. Regular monitoring of installed systems and producing reports can be carried remotely. Routine surveys (data collection, analysis & reporting) are also available.
Infrared Thermography
is another technique that can be used for a variety of equipment, including electrical, mechanical & process applications. It has the advantage of returning a completely non-contact temperature measurement over the target surface. It reacts very quickly to temperature changes when compared to other methods such as thermocouples or thermometers. Infrared thermography cameras have various colour palettes and temperature ranges that make this a very versatile condition monitoring technique.
AMTS is familiar with Flir, Fluke and SKF infrared cameras and associated software packages. Electrical, mechanical and process surveys can be carried out with full report produced. Reports will include a list of all assets surveyed, current condition, along with thermal images, digital images and recommendations for any suspected defects.
Airborne Ultrasound
can be a contact or a non-contact measurement. It is suitable for a variety of applications including compressed air/gas/steam leak detection; inspection of steam traps, valves and hydraulics; bearing lubrication; condition monitoring and electrical inspections (low, medium & high voltages). Airborne ultrasound can be used to compliment infrared thermography inspections of electrical equipment where doors are interlocked and cannot be opened. It is also an excellent technique for the monitoring of low-speed assets such as conveyors and gearbox output shafts.
AMTS has experience of utilising ultrasound in many different industries and applications. We are familiar with carrying out various surveys with both SDT Ultrasound Solutions & UE Systems equipment. We are experienced in using ultrasound for condition monitoring, leak detection and lubrication.
Lubrication Management
includes condition monitoring of the lubricant, proper storage and distribution of the lubricants used on-site. Lubricants are the lifeblood of equipment and therefore the correct monitoring method, intervals, laboratory analysis and effective reporting will extend the life of the lubricant and therefore the equipment. Typical tests include viscosity, acid / base numbers, water content and elemental analysis (often with ICP).
AMTS can collect lubricant samples, arrange laboratory analysis and review reports. By gaining an understanding of the equipment, recommendations will be made regarding continued service, top-up or change as required.
Operating Deflection Shape (ODS) Studies
are becoming ever more popular and there are different programmes available. This technique involves collecting a short video and vibration data to determine what movements (if any) are taking place when the equipment is operating. This provides a visual representation that is easily understood.
AMTS uses the Dragon Vision software for carrying out these surveys which can be done on-site, or remotely.
CM Programme Review
should be carried out on a regular basis and certainly at least once a year. It is important to know that your programme is set up correctly, you are using the correct techniques for your equipment and that the measurements being collected will return the best information on the condition of your assets. The best CM equipment and software will only return the information that it is set up to collect and this applies to vibration analysis, infrared thermography, lubrication management and airborne ultrasound.
AMTS can offer a review of your current condition monitoring programmes and assess this against your organisational requirements. This can include an overall assessment of all condition monitoring techniques being used, or a review of your maintenance activities with recommendations on what CM techniques would be best for your organisation.