This Single Stage Centrifugal Condensate Pump is experiencing high levels of vibration, with the predominant frequency being 11.3 times the pump's operating speed. This frequency does not match the bearing fault frequency. Despite conducting a bump test, no natural frequencies were detected nearby. Similar vibration patterns were observed last year, leading to the replacement of bearings. Although vibration levels decreased after the replacement, no abnormalities were found upon inspecting the removed bearings. What could be causing this specific frequency issue?
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Anbhazhakan, can you share some spectral diagrams and waveforms related to this issue? Please send them to info@alertanalytical.com for further analysis. It appears that there may be a crucial component missing. Thank you, Mark.
Please review the attached spectrums captured using this equipment, showcasing the presence of harmonics at varying frequencies. The file attached for your reference is named "Spectrums.doc" and is 93 KB in size.
Anbhazhakan, this situation is new to me. It doesn't resemble typical resonance; the definition is too precise. Identifying the root cause could be intriguing. Best of luck in your investigation. Joe Mc Cormack.
Hello Anbhazhakan, thank you for providing the spectra. I believe there may be an error in the labeling of two of them. It seems unlikely that all of them are "vertical."
It sounds like you're dealing with a tricky case of resonant frequencies or perhaps an alignment issue. Since the vibration frequency is 11.3 times the pump's operating speed, it might indicate some sort of mechanical interaction that’s not necessarily bearing-related. Have you considered checking the coupling and the alignment of the pump to the motor? Sometimes, even slight misalignments can lead to harmonics that manifest as those high-frequency vibrations. Also, it could be worthwhile to inspect the foundation and surrounding structures for any changes that might have amplified the vibration. Given that similar patterns showed up last year, it might be a good idea to look at the overall installation and operational environment for potential contributing factors.
It sounds like you’ve done a thorough job diagnosing the issue, and it's interesting that the frequency doesn't align with typical bearing fault signatures. One possibility could be that the vibration is stemming from the pump’s alignment or hydraulic issues, such as cavitation or poor flow conditions, which might introduce harmonics or subharmonics that aren't directly linked to bearing faults. It might also be worth checking for any potential resonance issues with the pump's mounting or nearby structures that could amplify vibrations at that specific frequency. Have you looked into potential variations in operating conditions or changes in system dynamics that could have emerged since last year?
It sounds like you're dealing with an intriguing vibration issue. Given that the frequency of 11.3 times the pump's operating speed doesn't align with bearing fault frequencies, it might be worth exploring mechanical or hydraulic factors that could introduce vibration at that rate, such as resonance in the pump casing or even misalignment issues. Additionally, consider if there are any external influences, like nearby machinery or piping dynamics, that could be coupling with your system at that particular frequency. Since you previously encountered similar vibrations, it may also be beneficial to review the entire system for any changes in operation or wear that could have developed since the bearing replacement. Sometimes, just a slight change in fluid dynamics or blockage could lead to increased vibrational characteristics.
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Answer: - The high vibration levels in the pump could be caused by a specific frequency that is 11.3 times the pump's operating speed, which does not match the bearing fault frequency.
Answer: - Despite replacing the bearings in the pump last year, the vibration issues may have reoccurred due to the specific frequency causing the vibrations not being related to bearing faults.
Answer: - Troubleshooting steps such as conducting a bump test and inspecting the removed bearings were taken to address the high vibration levels in the pump.
Answer: - No abnormalities were found upon inspecting the removed bearings after the vibration issues occurred, indicating that the source of the vibration may not be related to bearing faults.
Answer: - The specific frequency vibration issue in the pump could be caused by factors such as misalignment, resonance, or structural issues that are not related to bearing faults.
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