Condition Monitoring Australia

Integrated Condition Monitoring

Condition Monitoring is the use of advanced technologies in order to determine equipment condition, and potentially predict failure.  CMA utilises integrated techniques and processes such as Vibration Measurement and Analysis, Infrared Thermography, Oil Analysis & Tribology, and Motor Circuit Analysis in order to provide our clients with:

  • Increased equipment lifespan
  • Increased plant safety
  • Fewer accidents with negative environmental impact
  • Optimized spare parts handling

Technologies used by CMA include the following:

Vibration Data Collection and Analysis – using both portable and online systems.

​Vibration data collection and analysis will assist your team to predict developing problems such as: 

  • Machinery unbalance
  • Misalignment
  • Mechanical looseness
  • Bearing defects
  • Gearing defects
  • Lubrication problems
  • Structural vibration
  • Motor defects

Electric Motor Circuit Analysis

Since 2002 CMA have led the industry by developing motor circuit analysis techniques.  Using the proven BJM All Test System CMA have successful detected hundreds of motor winding defects while also eliminating the need for unnecessary motor rewinds. Typically most plants find that up to 20% of existing motors have unacceptable levels of electrical unbalance, which directly relate to excess power consumption, overheating and decreased motor life.  As with any Condition Monitoring program the value of the data is significantly enhanced when trended over a representative period.

The testing procedure consists of connecting the BJM unit test leads to each motor while in the off line condition. The connection is normally made in the main electrical control and if a fault is suspected then a follow up test is carried out at the motor.
Most plants are monitored on a 3 or 6 monthly basis during a one or two day site visit.

CMA is the only company who integrate the complete range of CM technologies: Vibration, Oil, Thermography and Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA) into one Condition Monitoring Database.

Motor Circuit Analysis (MCA™) is a de-energized test method and the test can be initiated from the Motor Control Centre (MCC) or directly at the motor. The advantage to testing from the MCC is the entire motor system, including the connections and cables between the test point and the motor, is evaluated.

ALL-TEST PRO MCA™ instruments apply a low voltage, non-destructive AC signal through the motor windings and measure the response to these signals. Winding faults are indicated by variances in the response to the applied signal through the windings. These variances cause unbalances in the measured response to the applied signal. Therefore, when testing 3-phase equipment such as motors, generators, or transformers the response of each phase is compared to the other two. When testing single phase devices or DC motors then the winding is compared to itself or compared to a like single phase device or a like DC motor.

Additional investigation and analysis techniques are available to more thoroughly identify any of these variances in the winding so faults can be quickly and easily identified. These faults can be corrected or removed prior to energizing the winding preventing potential total destruction of the motor or other winding system.

Independent Lubricant Analysis

Oil and Grease Analysis are the analytical results of a lubricants property, suspended contaminants and wear debris. Oil or Grease sampling is performed during routine inspections to provide information on the condition of both the lubricant and the machine.  Analysis of the lubricant sample is an effective tool to provide important information about the life of your machines.

CMA will manage your lubricant testing program, ensuring that the results are combined with vibration data to maximise the effectiveness of the recommendations.

Sampling point identification, correct sampling procedure and lubricant rationalisation are all very important steps to achieving the best from the lubrication program.  CMA also ensure that results are completely independent of suppliers.

Precision Laser Shaft and Belt Pulley Alignment

Modern laser systems bring accuracy and ease to what was once a painstaking procedure using dial indicators.  The correction information is conveniently displayed on the screen in digital format.  As the machine to be moved is adjusted the display values update so that you can see the effect of the corrections. Misalignment of both horizontal and vertical machines can be quickly corrected.

Belt Sheave Laser Alignment could not be easier – using simple yet sophisticated belt alignment tools makes sense:

  • Lower cost
  • Minimizes belt/sheave wear
  • Reduces vibration
  • Cuts downtime and production delays
​In-situ Dynamic Balancing and Modal testing

Why put up with excessive machine vibration with the ongoing cost of replacing bearings and unwanted stress on the mountings when a quick and easy balance correction is possible?

CMA has many years’ experience with most types of fans (including cooling tower), rotors and centrifugal filters – from very large boiler ID fans to small blowers – the results speak for themselves. If you want a job done properly then get CMA to do it the first time. 

Once the machine has been cleaned and inspected, test runs are carried out to determine the size and location of the correction weight which may vary from a few grams to several Kilograms.

If modal testing is required our certified level 4 technician will create a working 3D model to fully understand the dynamics of the rotor. 

Infra Red Thermography

All objects emit electromagnetic energy.  Thermography will accurately measure the amount of electromagnetic energy allowing the identification of thermal variations normally not visible to the naked eye.  Heat is indicative of failing components and Thermographic Imaging of electrical switchgear and equipment allows maintenance to be scheduled before serious failure occurs.  

Electrical equipment needs regular inspection to detect poor connections or contacts, overloading or unbalanced loads.  CMA carry out all your onsite inspections, collect data and present easy to read Machine Condition Assessment Reports complete with recommendations for maintenance action