ifm efector’s vibration monitor predicts failure

Exton, PA— ifm efector reports that its new vibration monitor, efector Octavis, can detect rolling element bearing failures and shaft unbalance conditions on pumps, motors, compressors, fans, spindles, and other plant equipment. Permanent mounting allows it to continuously monitor a machine’s operating condition by analyzing that device’s vibration signature, and then predict failures and send an alarm output signal to a PLC or relay.

About 80% of maintenance is reactive, which is very expensive, says Karl Klinger, ifm efector’s fluid sensor product manager. Preventive is better, but equipment may get fixed before it needs to be. Predictive is best because unplanned shutdowns are avoided, and assets can deliver all they can prior to repair or replacement, Klinger told Control Engineering recently. Many predictive systems cost $50,000 or more and require extensive training. This easy to setup and use device is under $900, including setup accessories, he adds.

efector Octavis’ monitor incorporates a MEMS accelerometer, analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, digital signal processor (DSP) and diagnostic electronics in a 40 x 40-mm package. These electronic components enable the monitor to gather, process, and interpret vibration data. The accelerometer monitors the acceleration value via a change in capacitance signal. The A/D converter transforms the analog signal from the MEMS sensor to a digital signal.

Meanwhile, an integrated DSP performs mathematical calculations to convert the time domain vibration signal into a frequency domain signal known as Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT). The integrated DSP can process up to 32,000 calculations per second. Configuration software is used to input application parameters, such as bearing dimensions and shaft speed, focusing on critical frequencies in the vibration spectrum and ignoring external noise. One efector Octavis monitor can detect up to five rolling elements on a machine by looking at distinct waveform signatures of each

In addition, Octavis’ pushbutton programming includes a teach button with an integrated alarm display. The monitor generates a switching alarm when there is a large increase in amplitude for a critical frequency. The alarm display provides two switching outputs that indicate an early warning alarm and a critical alarm. The monitor has two connectors for power and software connection. A standard Micro DC connector can connect the monitor to a power source or output device. A PC or laptop is connected to the monitor via its RS-232 connector and setup cable.

Control Engineering Daily News DeskMark Hoske, editor-in-chiefMHoske@cfemedia.com

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