Use Condition Monitoring to Forecast and Diagnose Problems

One of the many factors in establishing an effective maintenance program is the ability to diagnose problems. Having the ability to fix those problems early is key before they become a larger issue. Having the proper maintenance techniques in place allows for the repair or replacement of equipment on your terms. You no longer have to wait for them to fail, this results in unexpected and costly downtime.

Condition Monitoring

One maintenance method gaining popularity in recent years is condition monitoring. In reality, condition monitoring is nothing new. It is the process of monitoring a piece of equipment and determining if the condition is changing over time. Changes include an increase in temperature or vibration as well as a decrease in power or productivity. Even a slight change in the condition of the machine signifies potential problems.

An important factor to consider when using condition monitoring is that it is not a sole tool to use. It is a potent tool in detecting and diagnosing problems within the machinery. It is also a method of last resort. If you discover problems with your equipment, you may be too late.

One Piece of Your Toolbox

Using other preventative maintenance techniques helps rule out problems before they become detectable. Those different types of maintenance techniques include infrared and ultrasound technology.

Write down information about the condition of the equipment. Don’t expect the equipment operator to recognize changes. Changes in the equipment’s operation might be gradual and undetectable. Comparing notes over time goes a long way in helping detect problems.

Another important factor is routine maintenance. Maintaining the equipment on a regular schedule helps to delay issues. Lubrication and regular cleaning are some everyday tasks that work with an established condition monitoring program. Using a combination of these tools may be part of the preventative maintenance program, but it also is good operating procedures.

Finally, it is important to get the operators on board with the program. They need to voice their concerns and opinions about the equipment they are operating. Provide regular instruction and a means of communication that works for everyone involved.

Dynapar’s Conditioning Monitoring Program

Dynapar has a new tool to establish a conditioning monitoring program. The OnSite™ System remotely monitor vibration, temperature, and speed at an affordable price with built-in analytic tools and alarms.

Transform your operations with remote condition monitoring designed for ease of use and scalability.

The OnSite System is a powerful, 24/7 online predictive maintenance system that monitors vibration, temperature and speed data (with an encoder attached) with a robust, built-in analytics tools including alarms that send email and text notifications.

• Access critical data from anywhere, 24/7
• Set alarms that trigger email and text alerts when running conditions change
• Remotely monitor vibration, temperature and speed data (with an encoder) at an affordable price
• Deploys within minutes. Secure Wi-Fi or cellular communication means no need to adjust control architecture
• Scale and transfer units to any machine
• Share data securely and enable real-time collaboration across the whole team

Run your plant more efficiently with data and schedule maintenance strategies to avoid failures and costly downtime.

It is also possible to outsource some of the condition monitoring along with a regular preventative maintenance program. At L&S Electric, we can establish a program that will work well for your specific needs. The program includes regular monitoring of your equipment at your facility using the latest equipment available for high-quality preventative maintenance. We also perform any repairs or replacements necessary to work with your schedule.