The value of integrating process variable monitoring with vibration monitoring - Total condition assessment

With the phenomenal increase in the capabilities of reasonably priced microprocessors and recent advances in Machinery Monitoring knowledge, there is a trend toward comprehensive on-line machinery condition assessment. The powerful combination of on-line vibration integrated with process data allows the user an incredible amount of flexibility, not only for maintenance program but for total process monitoring and control. This integration provides a tool that can greatly aid in both Maintenance and Operations in the following areas. Decreased cost of production Decreased number of costly, unscheduled shutdowns Increased overall plant efficiency Increased inter-departmental cooperation Our purpose here is to briefly examine advances in several of the enabling technologies. We will then discuss their application to achieve an integrated system and demonstrate the benefits of such a system.