[Waveform Library] Identifying Signs of Anomalies with Conanair

[Waveform Library] Identifying Signs of Anomalies with Conanair

Signs of Anomalies Visible with conanair (Waveform Images)

"Even if told I can get raw data, I cannot visualize what kind of waveforms will appear." For such users, we present images showing how typical anomalies (Unbalance, Misalignment, Bearing Defects) occurring in rotating machinery appear on the conanair FFT (Frequency Analysis) screen.
*Note: The following images illustrate general characteristics. Actual waveforms vary depending on machine specifications and rotation speed.


[Analysis Guide] Typical Anomaly Causes and FFT Spectrum Characteristics

In vibration analysis, here is a list of typical anomaly characteristics that can be read from the raw data (FFT waveform) acquired by conanair. AI learns these numerical correlations as expert knowledge.


Type of Anomaly FFT Spectrum Characteristics (Primary Information) Main Causes
1. Unbalance The amplitude of the Rotational Speed Component (1X) becomes prominently large. Dirt on impellers, eccentricity of rotating bodies, loss of balance weights.
2. Misalignment High peaks tend to appear at 2x (2X) or 3x (3X) the rotational speed component. Axis misalignment, coupling failure, improper centering.
3. Bearing Defects Irregular peaks and an increase in the noise floor are observed in the High-Frequency range. Inner/outer race flaws in rolling bearings, lubrication failure, electric corrosion.
4. Mechanical Looseness Sub-harmonics such as 1/2X and many high-order harmonic components appear. Loose bolts, insufficient rigidity of the foundation (base), bearing play.


1. Unbalance

FFT waveform image of unbalance. Prominent peak at rotation frequency (1X).

Feature:

A prominent, large peak appears at the rotation frequency (1X).

If left untreated:

Vibration concentrates in a specific direction continuously, significantly shortening the life of bearings and housings. In the worst case, it leads to machine breakage.

Commonly seen when dirt adheres to fans or blowers, or when blades are chipped. It is characterized by vibration energy concentrating at a single point of the rotation frequency.

[Analysis Perspective: How to Identify Anomalies] Unbalance generates the strongest vibration at a frequency matching the rotation speed (1X). Confirming this peak in both horizontal and vertical directions is the first step in root cause identification.


2. Misalignment

FFT waveform image of misalignment. Peaks appear at 1X, 2X, and 3X.

Feature:

High peaks appear not only at the rotation frequency (1X) but also at harmonics such as 2X and 3X.

If left untreated:

Excessive load is constantly applied to couplings and bearings, causing heat generation and abnormal vibration. Eventually, it may lead to major accidents such as coupling failure or shaft breakage.

Occurs when the motor and pump shafts are not aligned properly. Defective couplings or installation errors are suspected. Unlike unbalance, multiple peaks are the distinguishing feature.

 

[Analysis Perspective: How to Identify Anomalies] In "Misalignment" where shaft centers are offset, not only the 1X component but also its multiples, 2X and 3X spectra, are emphasized. conanair's FFT screen allows you to identify these high-order components at a glance.


3. Bearing Defects

FFT waveform image of bearing defects. Irregular noise rise in high frequency range.

Feature:

Irregular mounds or noise rise appear in high-frequency bands unrelated to the rotation frequency. While conanair cannot capture this exactly; however, it detects the occurrence as a reflection in the lower frequency band.

If left untreated:

Internal damage expands rapidly, leading to flaking or seizure, causing sudden machine stoppage (downtime). This can result in significant production losses.

Bearing damage rarely appears in vibration values (OA values) in the early stages, but FFT analysis allows for early detection of these specific frequency components. This is the greatest benefit of viewing "raw data" with conanair.

 

[Analysis Perspective: How to Identify Anomalies] Flaws in bearings (rolling bearings) appear in very high frequency bands. conanair's unique sampling technology reliably captures these anomalies in the high-frequency range despite its low cost.


The Value of "Raw Data" That Is Not Black-Boxed

With conanair, you can view these "raw waveforms" unlimitedly on your smartphone or PC.
Many wireless vibration sensors only output "Judgment Results (OK/NG)" calculated internally. However, conanair provides Raw Data (Acceleration/Velocity) in CSV format that is not black-boxed. This enables "unique trend management" and "precision diagnosis" using AI or dedicated analysis software, minimizing the risk of sudden failures.


Please catch the signs of anomalies with your own eyes that "numerical only" sensors miss. Download the catalog from the page below to check the specifications of conanair.

 

Download Catalog


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Try equipment anomaly detection and predictive maintenance for free. Please feel free to contact us.

30-Day Free Trial & Inquiry

Try Conan Air for free for 30 days. Here is what our users are saying:
  • Easy installation for immediate use
  • No app required; operate via web browser
  • No cloud required for fully automatic measurement
  • Affordable, including dedicated software
Try equipment anomaly detection and predictive maintenance for free. Please feel free to contact us. Free Trial

 

Please contact NSXe for any issues regarding facility maintenance

Company Name NSXe Co.Ltd - Nakayama Hydrothermal Industry Co., Ltd.
Head Office 7686-10 Hirano-cho, Suzuka, Mie513-0835, Japan zip code 513-0835
Phone +81-90-2189-1398
FAX +81-59-379-4704
Business Hours 8:00~17:00
Office Regular

Holiday

Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays
URL https://conanair.com/

Please contact NSXe for any issues regarding facility maintenance

Company Name NSXe Co.Ltd - Nakayama Hydrothermal Industry Co., Ltd.
Head Office 7686-10 Hirano-cho, Suzuka, Mie513-0835, Japan zip code 513-0835
TEL +81-90-2189-1398
FAX +81-59-379-4704
Business Hours 8:00~17:00
Office Regular

Holiday

Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays
URL https://conanair.com/