The topic for the July Technology Evening as presented by Ralph White from ifm electronic on the topic ‘Condition monitoring vibration analysis’, loosely referred to as condition based monitoring (CBM). To date this has to be one of the most technical presentations and provided a significant amount of ‘theory’ along with principles such as Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) used to monitor and protect against unbalance, misalignment, etc. Some of the advantages of vibration monitoring include advanced defects warning, condition assessment (for improvement e.g. lower energy consumption, etc.) resulting in cost savings due to extended machine life, reduced maintenance (e.g. not simply scheduled but based on condition) and reduced unplanned downtime.
The relation of different types of vibrations, as monitored using frequency, indicate the presence of different types of faults. For example, running speed vibration and its harmonics are used to indicate alignment/unbalance, while the different types of synchronisation vibration e.g. (synchronous, non-synchronous, sub-synchronous) indicate for instance vane pass, electrical defects and V-belt wear. High frequency vibration indicates lubrication issues. More information on this informative topic is available.
Events and site visits
7 September – Technology Evening – Internet of Things (IDX).
30 September – SAIMC National Gala Dinner – Room Five, Rivonia.
5 October – Technology Evening – Bloodhound SCC Project (Swagelok).
From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
When South Africa clinched victory in the Rugby World Cup for the fourth time, the nation collectively rejoiced. However, amidst this optimism lies a pertinent question: is South Africa truly a land of hope, or is it merely a fool’s paradise?
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The local Johannesburg Branch of the SAIMC hosted a technology evening at the Bryanston Sports Club on 13 March 2024. It was sponsored by Phoenix Contact and the technical presentation covered the full gambit of industrial wireless technology in the automation field.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban technology meeting in March drew a record attendance, with an old friend of the SAIMC, Gary Friend presenting on the very topical subject of ‘Risks, rewards, advantages and disadvantages of new technologies and the impact of legislation’.
Read more...SAIMC: Secunda Branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Secunda branch held its monthly Technology Evening on 6 March 2024 at the Proconics, Secunda office. Sagadevan Kanniappen from WIKA presented on Thermowell stress calculations as per ASME PTC 19.3.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The manufacturing industry is facing some challenges due to automation and outsourcing, but there are still opportunities in advanced manufacturing, such as 3D printing and robotics. It’s essential to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the industry to remain competitive.
Read more...SAIMC:Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The annual general meeting of the SAIMC Johannesburg branch was held on 7 February 2024 at the Northcliff Country Club.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Durban branch of the SAIMC held its annual general meeting at the Premier Splendid Inn in Pinetown on 24 January 2024
Read more...Reminiscences of a life in control Michael Brown Control Engineering
SAIMC
Reminiscences from Michael Brown on a long and rich journey in the world of automation together with SAIMC.