The 3 Basic Characteristics of Vibration
Vibration is a common occurrence in mechanical systems, and it can lead to damage if not handled properly. This is why measuring vibration is an important part of maintenance. To properly measure and analyze vibration, there are three basic characteristics that must be measured. These characteristics are frequency, amplitude, and phase.
Frequency of Vibration
Frequency is the number of cycles or vibrations per unit of time. In vibration analysis, frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz). When measuring vibration, it is important to know the frequency of the vibration, as certain frequencies can indicate specific problems. For example, high-frequency vibration may indicate a problem with a bearing, while low-frequency vibration may indicate an issue with the foundation or support structure.
Amplitude of Vibration
Amplitude is the measurement of the size of the vibration. It is measured in units of distance, such as micrometers (μm) or millimeters (mm). The amplitude of vibration is important to measure, as it indicates how severe the vibration is. If the amplitude is too high, it could lead to damage or failure of the mechanical system. In addition, knowing the amplitude of a vibration can help identify which component of the system is experiencing the vibration.
Phase of Vibration
Phase is the measurement of the timing of the vibration cycle. It is measured in degrees of rotation. Phase is an important characteristic to measure, as it can indicate the direction of the vibration. For example, if the phase is 90 degrees, the vibration is occurring in a vertical direction, while a phase of 180 degrees indicates horizontal vibration. Knowing the phase of a vibration can help identify the source of the vibration and help determine an appropriate course of action for maintenance.
Conclusion
Measuring vibration is an important part of maintenance for mechanical systems. To properly measure and analyze vibration, it is important to understand the three basic characteristics: frequency, amplitude, and phase. By measuring these characteristics, it is possible to identify the source of a vibration and take appropriate action to prevent damage or failure of the mechanical system.