Condition Monitoring of Rolling Contact Bearing by Vibration Signature Analysis

Abstract

Bearing condition monitoring is the useful technique for maintaining the health of the machines. A machine is similar to a human body as far as condition monitoring is concerned. The sensors act as stethoscope for machines, which provides the machine health-related information. The vibration information helps the analyst to predict the exact condition of machine. Condition monitoring plays a vital role in automation of medium to large-scale industries. Vibration signature is commonly used parameter for identification of fault in rotating machines. Hertzian contact deformation theory is used to calculate contact force. The mathematical model considers frequency as well as acceleration magnitude of bearing vibration. The model developed shows the nature of vibration for both defective and defect-free bearing. The results are presented in frequency domain for simulated defect on the raceways. The effects of defect location and rotating speed are investigated by using theoretical model. The actual rotor with defective bearing is tested at constant speed under known load. The wire cut EDM process is used for creation defects in the bearing. The results obtained in theoretical are validated through the experimentation. The model developed can be used for the signature pattern database development which will act as knowledge base for the future studies in the field.