I recently acquired the newly created Predictive Maintenance job in my company. I have a Marlin Condition Detector for vibration analysis. Is this adequate?

AC,

The Marlin does not allow vibration analysis, since waveform, spectrum, and phase are not displayed or stored. It should be a fine tool for alarming and trending overall and demodulated vibration levels and process parameters, and logging observations. You would need access to a vibration analyzer or an outside expert for assistance to make detailed fault diagnosis.

Walt
w_f_strong [at] msn [dot] com

Thanks Walt. That's what I thought. Now all I have to do is loosen up the pocket book.

Does anyone have any recomendations for vibration analysis equipment. I've searched the web, and I,ve seen alot. Keeping price and training in mind which one is best? Currently having the Marlin is it upgradeable to do vibration analyzing or compatible with another system.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: ac_drive,

AC,

Without knowing the type and size of your plant and the type and number of machines being monitored, it is hard to recommend an appropriate system. Let's assume you have a SKF Marlin I-Pro and have a good route-based monitoring program with it. This would allow allow any technical person with minimum training to monitor machines and flag suspect faults. You could then buy a low cost FFT vibration analyzer to identify the specific faults on only the suspect machines. I suggest looking at the SKF MicroVibe P (CMVL), since it uses the same Windows Mobile 2003 operating system and is low cost at under $3000.00. You could rely upon an outside consultant (like me) for diagnostic assistance until you get sufficient training and acquire experience. There are other products with similar functionality as the MicroVibe. The SKF Microlog MX series (or similar from CSI, Entek/IRD) are more expensive data logging vibration analyzers that would be used in place of the Marlin system.

I neither sell nor use the SKF products, but I suggest you make the best out of what you have.

Walt
w_f_strong [at] msn [dot] com