Vibration Calibration
Seismic velocity measurements are crucial for predictive maintenance of critical equipment such as pumps, motors, compressors, fans, cooling towers, and rollers. Industrial motor bearings wear out over time, and measuring their performance is essential to prevent premature replacements or machine failure. 4-20 mA loop vibration sensors, such as the Seismic Velocity 4-20 mA transmitter from Metrix or IMI Sensors, are gaining popularity for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. These sensors help predict and forecast machine failure by measuring vibration in bearings and interface directly with existing process instrumentation systems. They also allow vibration trending and notify technicians for detailed diagnostic tests when the vibration alarm threshold is crossed. However, these sensors only help in predictive maintenance if they provide accurate measurements. Michael Scott, Industrial Product Manager and Certified Category II Vibration Analyst with The Modal Shop, demonstrated field calibration and testing of industrial vibration protection systems at the ISA Process Control Symposium in November 2015. He calibrated a 4-20 mA vibration sensor using a shaker as a standard, creating an automated, paperless calibration process with a calibration certificate for proof and traceability.