As a full service Vibration Testing Company we provide accurate vibration analysis services.

The following summarizes how to get your data professionally analyzed.

For an EMERGENT analysis of your data call us at 815-742-1793. 

Step 1: Provide an Equipment Registration Data Sheet (example above):

The equipment registration sheet (see image above) provides the machine information needed to accurately build a database for all machines. This information provides us the data we need to accurately assign all data analysis parameters which are needed to support an accurate data analysis. This information needed includes:

• The rpm of the driver

• If a motor is on a VFD power supply

• If a gearbox is used, what the output rpm is

• A general description of each machine as you would describe it to someone over the phone. For example:

1. 1. Horizontal motor / coupling / horizontal pump
   2. Horizontal motor / coupling / 90-degree gearbox / belts / vertical fan
   3. Vertical motor / fan mounted on motor output shaft (no coupling or belts)

• Name of each machine up to 29 characters

• Abbreviated name or Engineering Part Number of each machine up to 9 characters

• Provide one or most lists of how you want to collect the machine data (list the machines so as to minimize the number of steps taken in the plant). Reference the first column in the above image.

Step 2: Receive FREE On-Site Data Collector Training

• Schedule FREE on-site Data Collector Training. This training is completely FREE; no travel or instructor fees. “ZIP”.

• We recommend a minimum of 2 students attend from each represented plant to maintain plant expertise should one (1) of them leave.

• Training Topics include:
  • Personnel and Machine Safety
  • Meter menus and operation
  • How to upload Routes and download Data
  • Determining and marking the best test point locations
  • After the classroom training everyone will go into the plant and collect a complete set of data
  • The students operate the meter while VAI monitors & mentors the students

Step 3: Collect Five (5) Initial Datasets:

Expedite the collection of five (5) datasets, daily if possible. Why you ask:

• Because some machines are sensitive to operating conditions and their amplitudes will vary greatly which will cause false alarms.
• And because five (5) datasets are needed to identify degrading trends and new frequencies.

After the initial five (5) datasets just collect data monthly and send to us for analysis. That’s it!

Your program is now fully operational!

Step 4: Schedule a Site Visit by VAI

• At any time convenient for your plant, schedule an on-site visit by VAI to test & troubleshoot and remaining unresolved vibration issues. This visit is optional.

FOR AN EMERGENT ANALYSIS OF YOUR DATA CALL US at 815-742-1793. 

What do you do if your plant has an emergent vibration problem and your Analyst is unavailable??

Call us for an emergent data analysis of the data. Just collect it and give us a call!  We can usually respond in less than 2-hours.

We’re fully committed to supporting your machinery vibration program and when you have a machinery vibration problem, it’s also OUR problem until it has been resolved to your satisfaction. We’re available 24/7 and you can reach us off-hours, weekends and on all holidays.  At VAI we every machine to be a ‘client’ and when any machine has a vibration problem, it’s also OUR problem!

The cost for each machine analysis is $ 500 USD and we gladly accept Credit Cards (VISA, AMEX and MASTERCARD) to expedite the process. Just email us the screen prints of your data and a few photos of the machine-train. Our Technical Support personnel are at VAI@infowest.com and vaiuser@vibrationanalysts.com. Be sure to include the following data, a summary of the machine’s problem, and any information that may be relevant.

• Spectral trend plots of all horizontal, vertical and axial test points on both the driver and driven machine, and gearbox if applicable
  • All amplitudes should be in Velocity IPS-Pk

• Waveform trend plots for each of the above points
  • All amplitudes should be in Acceleration g’s-Pk

• Provide multi-point spectral plot(s) of all points across the machine
  • All amplitudes should be in Velocity IPS-Pk

• Provide multi-point waveform plot(s) of all points across the machine
  • All amplitudes should be in g’s-Pk

• If multiple IDENTICAL machines are available, provide all the above for the bad machine, and one of the good machines.

• Provide hi-resolution data if available, and any other pertinent information you believe we may need

Remember, the accuracy of our analysis depends on the quality and completeness of your data, and although we may ask for additional data, there will only be a one-time charge for our analysis.

Call us now at 815-742-1793 for an emergent analysis of your data!

When we analyze data for 30+ machines a month for 12 months, we provide:

• FREE On-Site Data Collector Training.
• FREE Database and Route Management
• FREE 24/7 Technical Support & Emergent Data Analysis
• FREE Data Storage and Retrieval
• FREE 24/7 Database Access
• FREE ‘Loaner’ test equipment (just pay for shipping)
• The BEST PRICING for new CSI Hand-Held 2140 Vibration Meters.

For more information refer to the information below or call us at 815-742-1793.

FREE On-Site Data Collector Training:

We provide FREE on-site Data Collector Training to clients who have us analyze the data for of 30 or more machines per month for 12 months. This training is completely FREE; there are no travel, labor or other fees associated with this training.

Training topics include personal safety, setup and the use of the industry’s leading test equipment, determining the best machine test point locations, how upload new routes and download data.  After the classroom training has been completed, the students proceed into the plant to collect their initial data while VAI mentors and monitors them.  This service is totally FREE for clients who have us analyze their data.

FREE Database Management:

VAI provides FREE database and route creation, maintenance and optimization services.  That’s because it can be very time consuming and challenging for new users to create a database. Our Analysts know how to use the industry’s best software and which data analysis parameters are best for all types of machines.  We can also build a large database with up to 300 machines in as little as a week.

For more information about our VIBRATION DATABASE MANAGEMENT services, refer to the link in our “Services” page.

FREE 24/7 Technical Support:

We provide FREE 24/7 technical support in all areas. This means that if you ever have a machinery vibration issue (off-hours, weekends, holidays) just collect the data and email it to us for an accurate analysis.  And if we can help in any other way, just call us at 815-742-1793.

FREE Database Access:

We provide all clients with FREE 24/7 access to their database (read only) so they can login and view their data at any time.  A tutorial on how to use the software is included.

To begin the process, just call us at 815-742-1793.

Specials on Test Equipment:

Test Equipment: Sales, Service, Rentals and Loaners:

New Sales:

We provide the BEST PRICES for CSI 2140 hand-held vibration meters and standard accessories (the industry’s standard!).  For current pricing call us at 815-742-1793.

Rental Units:

Long term rental units (over a month) are available for use and evaluation before buying. This supports companies who do not have readily available funds to purchase a meter, or when their meter is in the repair shop, or for those who just need to ‘catch-up’ on their data analysis. Pricing includes the meter and all standard accessories included in a hard-shell protective case, less shipping.  Meter’s are also setup and shipped with the Route installed.

The rental period starts and ends the same day of each month from when the meter was shipped.  After one (1) full month the rental cost is pro-rated based on the number of days of each month until the meter is received by VAI.

Loaners:

FREE short term loaners (up to one month) are available for our established clients; just pay shipping. We’ll get one out the door all setup and with all standard accessories!  The standard rental fee will apply (as noted above) if the meter is not returned within the month of the shipping date.

As a full service Vibration Testing Company we provide:

• Acceptance Testing
• Baseline Testing
• Periodic Testing
• Component Troubleshooting
• Multi-Channel Vibration Testing
• ODS and Modal Analysis Testing
• On-Site Balancing

The following are reasons for selecting our services:

Our testing and troubleshooting services meet the most stringent industry standards, guaranteeing unparalleled accuracy and professionalism. We provide a comprehensive insight into the condition of your machinery, structures, and piping systems. We only use state-of-the-art test equipment and our patented data analysis process to deliver the most accurate data analysis results possible.  At VAI, our core service is ACCURATELY analyzing machinery vibration data. If we didn’t, we’d have gone out of business at long time ago.

Machinery Performance Optimization:

By using VAI’s vibration testing services, you can gain insights into many machinery health conditions. This includes machinery reliability, performance, efficiency, and alignment. By optimizing machinery operating conditions, clients can improve energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance operating life and reliability to the plant.

Root Cause Analysis:

VAI’s vibration testing services are not only instrumental in detecting machinery issues but also in facilitating in-depth root cause analyses for clients. By accurately identifying and addressing the root cause of failures, clients can effectively prevent recurring problems, thereby maximizing the long-term operating life and reliability of their equipment to support uninterrupted plant operations. This proactive approach not only minimizes downtime and associated costs but also enhances overall operational efficiency and ensures sustained productivity in the long run.

Machine Acceptance and Baseline Testing:

VAI’s vibration testing services are tailored to support client maintenance strategies by taking into account the unique characteristics of their machinery. By leveraging our experience with our vibration testing services, clients can optimize the effectiveness of their maintenance activities while simultaneously minimizing costs and downtime. Whether it’s predictive, preventive, or proactive maintenance, our comprehensive analysis helps clients make informed decisions and prioritize actions to ensure optimal performance and reliability of their equipment. This strategic approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also fosters a proactive maintenance culture, ultimately driving long-term cost savings and maximizing asset up-time.

Risk Mitigation:

By determining the normal vibration levels and frequencies of critical components under normal operating conditions, VAI can quickly detect and identify any degradation due to wear, abnormal operating conditions, and improper or incomplete maintenance. By proactively addressing these changes, VAI can help prevent irreparable machinery damage or failures.

Compliance with Industry Guidelines:

VAI’s vibration testing services aligns with established industry guidelines and best practices. By adhering to these industry ‘expectations’, we ensure your machinery or structures adhere to pertinent safety and reliability standards, enhancing overall operational integrity. We have also ‘raised the ladder’ when it comes to classifying rolling element bearing defects based on their waveform impact levels and the fact that rolling element bearings degrade at an increasing rate. We’re also working on a classification chart for bearings that are operating with ‘ball skid’ type of defect.

For more information about our testing services please refer to the links below. 

Acceptance Testing:

Before a new or rebuilt “high-dollar” machine leaves a suppliers facility, you should have it tested to verify it meets all Purchase Order and Specification requirements. This test is called an “Acceptance Test”.

Although a supplier may be able to perform an Acceptance Test, due to a conflict of interest it’s always best for your Analyst or an independent test agency to perform this testing.

Our Category IV Analysts are highly trained and qualified to perform Acceptance Testing. During an Acceptance Test, we ensure the machine is operated at specified test conditions before collecting the data. We also witness all parts of the test; we verify the supplier’s gauges and instrumentation are calibrated and that all specified test conditions (pressure, dP, temperature, load, etc.) are met.

After the test data has been analyzed, we provide a detailed report which includes all test data, photos (as allowed), the test results, conclusions and recommendations.

To schedule VAI to perform an “Acceptance Test” on your behalf, call us at 815-742-1793.

Baseline Vibration Testing:

Upon receipt of a new/rebuilt machine, it should be first tested “uncoupled” in the ‘motor shop’ before installation. This is to confirm the motor bearings are still in good condition and no damage to internal components occurred during shipping (loading, unloading and transportation).

The uncoupled run should measure the waveform impact levels, which should not exceed 1 g’s-Pk. If they do, the bearings were likely brinelled during transportation and should be replaced prior to installing the machine in the plant.

After installing in the plant, a “Baseline Test” is performed. The machine is started and data immediately collected to ensure the levels are not excessive due to improper installation. Data is also collected while system operating conditions are adjusted to ensure the machine doesn’t have a developing issue and, after the machine has reached normal operating conditions, a final set of data is collected. This is the “Baseline” data upon which all future data is compared.

For assistance with collecting Baseline Data and troubleshooting any vibration issues, please call us at 815-742-1793.

Periodic Testing:

Periodic test data is collected on a regular basis so the health of all critical, essential and high-dollar machines can be monitored over time.

Periodic testing consists of collecting route-based data on monthly basis (recommended). This frequency is recommended by the industry because rolling element bearings can progress from a ‘good’ condition to ‘bad’ in as little as 45 days. Monthly trending will catch these issues.

Route-based data collection is exceptionally easy to perform; it’s the data analysis that requires highly trained, experienced and knowledgeable Analysts.

For help with your data analysis, call us at 815-742-1793.  All you have to do is collect the data.

Yes it’s THAT easy!

Component Troubleshooting:

It happens. Everything was fine but now the vibration data shows a step increase in the machine’s vibration levels, and they are now unacceptable.

What do you do?  You could disassemble the machine and check everything (the ‘shotgun’ approach) only to put it all back together and find out you still have a vibration issue. This would a good time to call us.

Our ISO Category IV Analysts can quickly analyze the data and support emergent issues just like this.  To get an emergent analysis of your data, or one of our Cat. IV Analysts on their way to your plant, just call us at 815-742-1793.

Multi-Channel Testing

Our multi-channel testing services include the ability to continuously record very high resolution waveform data on up to 16 channels and for several hours in duration. This testing can support data collection across an entire machine while the system’s operating conditions (temperature, pressure, load and rpm) are varied.

One example where this testing would be useful, would be in placing several sensors evenly spaced on a pump’s recirc line to determine if a resonance was present, and the location of the anti-node(s) which are points of maximum vibration amplitudes.

ODS animation of a pump and the suction piping vibrating at Vane Pass frequency

ODS and Modal Analysis Testing

Our ODS testing services provide hidden insights into structural dynamics, resonant frequencies and mode shapes. This testing enables us to identify issues such as mechanical weakness, excessive flexibility, bending modes, and more.

ODS testing involves collecting data while a machine is in operation. On the other hand, Modal Analysis requires a data collector to generate the machine’s vibrations by using an ‘impact’ hammer, which can be labor intensive.

ODS and Modal Analysis testing have three (3) main steps:

1. Building a 3-D model (see above) of the machine / structure / system using dedicated software.
2. Collecting x, y and z vibration data at each point in the model
3. Meshing the data so the model moves as a complete ‘assembly’ at any desired frequency.

The results of these tests provide a visual 3-D animation showing how a machine moves in real time at any frequency, often revealing a weakness in the design.

For support and testing, call us at 815-742-1793.

On-Site Balancing Services:

Our Vibration Analysts can perform on-site single plane fan balancing. Balancing is usually needed when amplitudes get too high at 1x operating speed. In nearly all cases, the radial vibration levels will be noticeably higher than the axial levels.

There is no need to purchase expensive vibration test equipment or balancing software; our Vibration Analysts do everything except “turn wrenches” … due to insurance restrictions.

VAI strongly recommends against untrained staff performing balancing moves because the kinetic energy of a balance weight (if it comes off) can cause personal injury or death.

To schedule on-site single-plane balancing, call us at 815-742-1793.

TEST EQUIPMENT: Sales, Rentals and Loaners

VAI’s core business is analyzing machinery vibration data worldwide. To ensure accurate results, we ONLY use the Industry’s best vibration test equipment and software all made by Emerson / CSI.  We strongly recommend CSI’s  products but don’t take our word for it.  Go to an industry industry vibration conference and ask for a “show of hands” of “who uses CSI’s products?”.  The response will probably be greater than 70%.

At VAI, we ONLY recommend and sell what we use for our livelihood, and we only use the industry’s best test equipment and software made by CSI.

New Sales:

For clients looking for the absolute best price on the industry’s best-rated hand-held vibration test meter, we offer substantial discounts to clients who select us analyze their vibration data.  And as part of our service, we provide FREE on-site Data Collector Training so that your staff can begin immediately collecting data.

Rental Units:

Need to get caught up? Want to evaluate before buying? This may be the best option for a company who wants to try CSI’s best-rated vibration test equipment before buying.  We also rent to companies who need a rental unit while their meter is being repaired and those who need to ‘catch-up’ on their data analysis.

Loaner Meters:

We provide FREE loaners to clients who have us analyze the data for a minimum of 30 machine-trains a month for one (1) year.  These loaners are available when client meters are being re-calibrated, repaired, or when another meter is needed just to get things “caught-up”.

We provide complete Vibration Program Service and Technical Training!

Client Testimonials can be summed up as follows:

Accuracy and Precision:

“Their analysis provided unparalleled accuracy in identifying real machinery issues.”

“They can accurately detect and identify vibration issues at the earliest possible stages.”

Reliability and Machine Health Assurance:

“Our equipment’s reliability has improved significantly during their watch.”

“VAI’s services continue to optimize the health and reliability of our machines.”

State-of-the-Art Technology:

“Very impressed by VAI ‘ONLY’ using state-of-the-art test equipment like the CSI’s vibration meters.”

“Their patented data analysis process is doing a terrific job. Very accurate!”

Expertise of Certified Analysts:

“VAI’s Certified Vibration Analysts have exceptional knowledge. Not only are they expert vibration analysts, but they also have a solid understanding of how machines are designed and built.

“Their analysts perform different parts of the analysis based on their knowledge and experience. This allows ‘the team’ to accurately analyze and process exceptionally large quantities of data within 24 hours.”

Comprehensive Analysis:

“They go beyond just identifying issues; they also provide an accurate list of the possible causes, prioritizing the most likely first, and providing accurate corrective recommendations.”

“Their approach covers all aspects, ensuring nothing is overlooked. And if it were, I’m confident they would modify their approach to making it better!”

Efficient Problem Resolution:

“Quick and timely identification and resolution of vibration-related problems.”

“Their services help us address issues before they turn into major problems.”

Professionalism and Communication:

“VAI established very clear and professional communication at the start of our program; very easy to work with.”

Positive Impact on Operations:

“Their services had a positive impact on our overall operational efficiency. They are even able tell us when we have too many (or too few pumps running) just based on the vibration data!”

Our machinery downtime has gradually decreased since VAI has been analyzing our data, and we continue to substantial return on investment as we continue to optimize our vibration program.

These are just some of the ways VAI can help your vibration program.  To learn how we can meet or exceed your data analysis and program needs, call us at 815-742-1793.