All rotating machines produce vibrations that are a function of the machine dynamics, such as the alignment and balance of the rotating parts. Measuring the amplitude of vibration at certain frequencies can provide valuable information about the accuracy of shaft alignment and balance, the condition of bearings or gears, and the effect on the machine due to resonance from the housings, piping and other structures. Vibration measurement is an effective, non-intrusive method to monitor machine condition during start-ups, shutdowns and normal operation. Vibration analysis is used primarily on rotating equipment such as steam and gas turbines, pumps, motors, compressors, paper machines, rolling mills, machine tools and gearboxes. A major advantage is that vibration analysis can identify developing problems before they become too serious and cause unscheduled downtime. This can be achieved by conducting regular monitoring of machine vibrations either on continuous basis or at scheduled intervals. Regular vibration monitoring can detect deteriorating or defective bearings, mechanical looseness and worn or broken gears. Vibration analysis can also detect misalignment and unbalance before these conditions result in bearing or shaft deterioration. Trending vibration levels can identify poor maintenance practices, such as improper bearing installation and replacement, inaccurate shaft alignment or imprecise rotor balancing.
- Raspberry Pi 3 Model B
- Accelerometer ADXL345
- 5v-2A power supply for Raspberry Pi
| Raspberry Pi | ADXL345 |
|---|---|
| Pin 1 - 3v3 | Vcc |
| Pin 3 - SDA1 I2C | SDA |
| Pin 5 - SCL1 I2C | SCL |
| Pin 9 - Ground | GND |
- Connect the ADXL345 with Raspberry Pi.
- Mount the setup on the case of the bearing for which vibration analysis is required.
- Run the code named adxl345_final.py.
- 3 files will be obtained. Out of that copy the name of the .txt file without the .txt extension.
- Run plot.py and paste the filename copied in Step 4 when prompted.(Remember not to put the .txt extension)