Comprehensive Vibration Monitoring for Cargo Pumps: Enhancing Equipment Reliability

Monitoring the machine condition by vibration measurement is possible not only for Cargo pump el. motors, but also for Cargo pumps.

Before performing vibration measurements of such a pump, it is important to correctly determine the measurement points at which such a vibration measurement should be performed. It is important to take measurements at the correct location on the pump so that the received signal may indicate the part of the machine that is causing excessive vibration. The location of the points for one of the pumps located on one of our customers’ ships can be seen below.

Below are the measurements before the fault was detected and after the recommended works were performed by crew.

After taking the measurements, high values were visible at several points and high signals on the FFT velocity spectra, which indicated a problem with the impeller. We recommended checking the impeller in the pump and its seating on the shaft. The crew performed the work and noticed a crack in the pump housing. Significant improvement is visible also on FFT spectra and in measurement readings.

FFT velocity spectrum before performed our recommendation:

FFT velocity spectrum after performed our recommendation:

 

Vibration is a key indicator of the health of such pumps and monitoring it can help detect a variety of mechanical and hydraulic problems before failure occurs. In the case of cargo pumps, which often work with flammable liquids or chemicals, failure can lead to dangerous situations. Vibration measurement enables early detection of problems such as rotor imbalance, bearing wear, mechanical play, shaft misalignment and hydraulic problems (e.g. cavitation). Vibration monitoring helps minimize the risk of sudden failures and hazards. This proactive approach extends the life of the machine and helps avoid expensive and major repairs.

 

Discover more about our  Rotating Machinery Vibration Measurement