Periodic vs Non-Periodic Pulsation
Pulsation, a repetitive energy surge, indicates rotating machine health and categorizes into periodic and non-periodic types. Periodic pulsation, caused by regular mechanical events, suggests unbalance, misalignment, or bearing/gear issues.
The presence of pulsation—a repetitive surge of energy—is a key indicator of rotating machine health. These pulsations categorize into two major types, each pointing to a distinct family of mechanical defects.
𝟭. 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
What generates it: Mechanical events that occur at fixed, regular intervals with respect to the machine's rotation. These vibrations are synchronous or harmonically related to the shaft's rotational speed.
𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀: Unbalance, Misalignment and localized issues with Bearings or Gears
𝟮. 𝗡𝗼𝗻-𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
What generates it: Mechanical or process events that cause random or chaotic impacts on the machine. The time intervals between impulses are irregular, and the energy is not tied to the shaft's RPM by an integer multiple.
𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀: Rubbing, Fluid turbulence, Cavitation, Severe component wear