Vibration Monitoring for Predictive Maintenance in Central Energy Plants

Equipment maintenance and unexpected downtime resulting from equipment failure can make up a significant part of the cost of running a central heating plant (CHP). As with most rotating equipment, the machinery in CHPs often suffers from the effects of vibration. A predictive maintenance program uses vibrational analysis to deal with potential vibration problems by monitoring vibration electronically, and by using regular measurements to distinguish between normal and exceptional vibration signals. Since vibrational analysis can help predict component failure, those parts identified as defective can be scheduled for repair or replacement during planned equipment shutdowns, rather than during costly emergency downtime due to equipment failure. Vibrational analysis can also be used as a tuning device for rotating equipment, as a way to pinpoint and reduce machine inefficiencies, thus reducing operating costs. This study identified specific CHP plant equipment that could benefit from a predictive maintenance program that uses vibration analysis, and outlined the steps to implement such a program for Army CHPS. This report also lists vendors and equipment specifications for predictive maintenance systems. Vibration analysis, Central heating plants, Predictive maintenance.