Qualifying Electric Motors On-line

With the advent of on-line multi-parameter vibration systems typically used to monitor critical industrial machinery, such systems are easily adapted to the test cell environment. New and rebuilt electric motor test stands can utilize the benefits of LAN based on-line vibration data collection technology to assure industry standard quality control.

As this application note will explain, electric motor repair has risen to a new level as faulty motors arrive at the repair facility and are tested to confirm mechanical or electrical problems. Spectral signatures are analyzed to determine incoming bearing condition, balance tolerance, even rotor bar condition. Subsequent repairs are performed and motor quality is confirmed as it runs on the test stand. Multi-parameter monitoring allows for analyzing all aspects of the motor frequency spectrum for quality assurance. Before and after repair reports are now available with a percent of change column to justify repairs and give credence to the customer's predictive maintenance program. Test data is archived for historical reference, giving proof to the condition of the operation of the motor upon shipment.