Another frequent question I receive from my customers is how often should I have you here to check my equipment for vibration? Obviously, there is no standard answer, unless you tell them ideally-every day! Most budgets couldn't handle that frequency, so each client needs to be evaluated for a cost effective preventative maintenance program, designed for their specific type of equipment.

The logic behind vibration monitoring of rotating equipment is to identify potential problems before they become catastrophic failures.  One of the most important considerations is how long can you operate without a particular machine.  This establishes a priority.  If you cannot operate without a special pump, or blower, or fan, or whatever, you better have a backup.  Otherwise, you are at the mercy of someone else for parts, labor, and/or replacement. 

If a machine is so special, unique, or expensive to have a backup, then that machine is the one you want to monitor daily.  Vibration monitoring would only be one of the tools required to keep this machine in operation.  Other tools in your PM program would be fluid & filter changes, temperature monitoring, grease intervals, and coupling shaft alignments.

Frequency of vibration monitoring is also affected by the type of equipment and its' use in various applications.  Most of my customers are in the wastewater, landfill, and small manufacturing facilities.  They usually have a backup for their critical equipment.  In these cases, monthly or quarterly, monitoring is sufficient.  

Semi-annual monitoring is the most common.  I check the equipment in the spring to be sure they held up well over the past winter, and that they are ready for the long hot summer.  Then I check them again in the fall to be sure they are ready for the long cold winter. My vibration monitoring program for air & gas blowers, fans, and pumps includes a complete detailed PM of bearing lubrication, oil & filter changes, shaft alignments, installation inspection for loose mounting bolts, etc.... 

Vibration monitoring on an annual basis is more of a cursory inspection.  An insurance check to be sure you are doing the regular PM effectively so your equipment stays in operation.  Sometimes it is better just to have another ear listen to the operation of your equipment that you hear every day.  Better to do annual checks than none at all!

As long as you keep a good, effective preventative maintenance program in place, it will keep your equipment running healthier and longer, thus reducing costly repairs and downtime.  Invest in PM, it will save you money!