Can anyone let me know how effective Ultrasonics is in monitoring the bearings on a Roots blower. With 4 bearings analysis using vibration seems like a headache, would ultrasonic measurements allow me to pinpoint faults?


Thanks in advance
jamie

Hello JT,
no reason why a lobe blower is any different from any other machine as far as ultrasound is concerned. Don't forget to have listen to the timing gears on the blower, the belts for looseness and misalignment and of course the motor bearings as well as the blower bearings while you're at it.


best regards,
Tom Murphy

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Tom Murphy,

JT,

Many use ultrasound as first defense, a sort of "filter" and only apply vibration analysis if ultrasound dictates the necessity for further examination. So kudos for having an open mind to ask this question. So much time can be wasted anlysing bearings that have no faults instead of using ultrasound in concert with vibration and only doing full analysis on those that are in alarm.
I noticed the post from Tom Murphy as well. What he did not mention is that he also provides ultrasound training for applications just like yours. If I recall correctly he is offering a course in the UK in the not too distant future. Tom? Would this application be something you cover in your training sessions?

Actually Allan it would indeed be a typical example in the rotating mechanical section yes.

JT, this site is meant to be "neutral". To avoid any offence to this neutrality, I would be happy to send you some information if you contact me on tom@reliabilityteam.com.

best regards,
Tom Murphy

Thank you Allan and Tom, I will be in touch


Jamie

Tom,
Thanks for your honesty and keeping it "neutral", it is much appreciated.
Jamie, I'm not sure if you have had any training in Ultrasonic detection but if you haven't it would be advised. The sounds that you get back through your headset can be very misleading if you don't know what your doing. I've seen a couple of people think they have problems only to find they are pulling things apart for no reason. there is plenty of information available on line through UE systems, SDT and the like. don't be frightened to give them a call they usually all to happy to help out.

Please note: I have no affiliation with any of these company's.

I hope this helps.

Hooch

Jamie,

There can be a lot of background ultrasound on roots-type blowers. Secondly the background sound level changes with blower load/pressure and speed (if variable). Keep this in mind when making your measurements. You should measure at more locations than just on the four bearings.

Walt