Rolling Element Bearing Monitoring Using High Gain Eddy Current Transducers

A technique is described which provides early detection of rolling element bearing failure through direct observation of the bearing outer race with a high-gain eddy current probe. Data is presented that compares REBAM™—Rolling Element Bearing Activity Monitor—to traditional monitoring approaches that employ case mounted velocity and acceleration transducers. Generally, the REBAM approach simplifies the analysis of bearing condition because of its proximity to the bearing and its insensitivity to extraneous vibration sources due to the relative mounting approach employed. A summary of field results is presented and its suitability to high speed gas turbine monitoring is discussed.