7. Vibration Analysis: Methods and Applications

In medical diagnostics, a medical doctor uses a stethoscope and other instruments to reveal hidden anomalies that could cause health problems later or to diagnose problems you already have. The same should be true for complex industrial systems such as automobiles and high-pressure multi-stage compressors. Fast Fourier transform vibration spectrum analysis (FFT VSA) can be the stethoscope of the quality engineer to ensure that a manufacturing system is “in control” and to predict or diagnose problems in a particular device. The FFT VSA principles, while currently applied to a limited array of industrial equipment, are applicable to anything that shakes. This chapter introduces vibration theory, relevant vocabulary, tools of analysis, and their applications in predictive and diagnostic maintenance of complex machinery. It describes FFT VSA methodology for manufacturing quality, predictive and diagnostic maintenance, which can lead to longer, healthier lives for industrial equipment, ultimately enhancing cost, quality, and productivity.