Using traditional measurement techniques to monitor bearings rotating below 100 RPM is very difficult. SPM Instrument has introduced a Revolutionary and Patented Technology – SPM HD?
The patented SPM HD? method redefines the practice of condition monitoring on low RPM applications. The method is designed to provide instant condition information of rolling element bearings in green, yellow or red in a wide RPM range.
The Method
The use of high performance low-noise electronic components and extensive digital signal processing enables the method to detect extremely small shock pulses. An incipient spall, so small that it is barely visible, still creates distinct shocks which are reliably detected. The resulting Time signal HD is unusually distinct, mostly due to these and a number of other algorithms. The shock pulse measurement with SPM HD? is a technology specialized in detecting elastic waves/shock pulses emitted from spalls and cracks in bearings. The method is extremely sensitive, making it optimal for low RPM applications.
Following picture shows a typical bearing spall development pattern.
SPM HD? Overview
1.The SPM Transducer: 5-7 times more sensitive to shocks
2.Data Acquisition: Clean shock signal with High Sensitivity ? Digital filters and Digital Enveloping
3.Disturbance Rejecter: Random shock are filtered out – HDm (Highest Shock) and HDc (Low shocks – 200 shock per sec)
4.Direct Evaluation: Shock levels and Patterns, condition information and Analysing the shock source
5.RPM Fluctuation Handler: Makes time signal and spectrum for evaluation crisper
6.Symptom Enhancer: Extracts and Enhance shock sources for analysis
7.Shock Analysis: provides time and spectrum graphs.
Industrial Challenges
Expensive Breakdowns ? Downtime, Huge repair cost
Short pre-warining time of impending failure
Long Delivery time for spares
Crisis Management ?Maintenance work puts lots of stress on company personnel.
Summary
The SPM HD? method is excellent for condition monitoring of low RPM applications. Using SPM HD?, a Spalling process can be closely monitored over a period of many months. This method not only shows the existence of a potential damage, but the unique Sensitivity of the method makes it possible to monitor the damage process in great detail, even down to individual spalls. As the damage progresses, the severity can be followed and replacement planned at the best suitable time.
Feature by P. Hari Krishna, Manager – Support, SPM Instrument India Private Limited. e mail: info@spm.co.in