Marine Vibration Analyzer: ATEX & NON-ATEX
How to choose, route-based workflow, and a quick comparison for ships.
Marine vibration analyzer: how to choose and start fast (ATEX / non-ATEX)
A vibration analyzer helps crews detect rotating-machinery faults before they escalate at sea. This guide covers portable options, ATEX vs non-ATEX, a simple route-based workflow, and a quick comparison for shipboard use.
Onboard use cases for a marine vibration analyzer
Engines, pumps, compressors: unbalance, misalignment, looseness, bearing defects.
Thrusters & auxiliaries: rising vibration under load, thrust-bearing issues.
HVAC & fans: pulsations, resonance at variable speed.
Gearboxes / shafts: runout, alignment after docking.
Tip: Standardize measurement points (DE/NDE) and labels so your marine vibration analyzer data trends cleanly across the fleet.
ATEX vs non-ATEX: which marine vibration analyzer do you need?
ATEX (Ex): required in hazardous areas (e.g., tankers, chemical carriers). Look for Ex i certification and rugged build.
Non-ATEX: ideal outside hazardous zones (engine rooms, HVAC spaces). Lighter and more affordable.
If your routes cross both areas, plan for an ATEX-capable vibration analyzer to keep training and logistics simpler.
Route-based workflow: 5 steps for consistent results
Asset list & points: define machines and bearing locations.
Routes: set the sequence to match watch schedules.
Acquisition: collect RMS, envelope, time signal/FFT at each point.
On-site judgement: mark OK/Alert and capture likely causes.
Trending & reporting: review severity vs baselines and act (balance, align, plan stop).
Quick comparison: portable options for ships
| Scenario | What matters | Example devices |
|---|---|---|
| Inspections in Ex zones | ATEX cert, ease, ruggedness | MarVib DC810 (ATEX), PRUFTECHNIK VIBSCANNER 2 EX |
| Deeper diagnostics | FFT, envelope, routes, tagging | MarVib DC810 / DC808, PRUFTECHNIK VIBXPERT II |
| Fast screening | One-click health scales | Fluke 805 (screening), Fluke 810 (diagnostics) |
| Fleet repeatability | Routes, report templates | MarVib DC810/DC808 + route-based app |
Why DC 810/DC 808 at sea? Route-based workflow, ATEX and non-ATEX variants, operator-friendly UI, and reporting that superintendents can act on.
Buying checklist for a marine vibration analyzer
Diagnostic depth: screening only or full FFT/envelope/phase/order tracking?
ATEX / hazardous areas: where will you measure?
Ergonomics: boot time, daylight display, glove-friendly controls.
Routes & reports: easy templates and export for fleet reviews.
Accessories & service: magnetic/stud sensors, calibration, rugged case.
Training: a 2–4 h intro often boosts data quality more than specs.
Vibration data collector MarVib DC 808 – Info-marine
Vibration data collector MarVib DC 810 ATEX – Info-marine
FAQ
Q1: What is a marine vibration analyzer?
A marine vibration analyzer is a portable device that measures machine vibration onboard ships to diagnose faults like unbalance, misalignment, looseness, and bearing defects.
Q2: Do I need an ATEX-rated analyzer on my vessel?
Choose ATEX if your routes include hazardous areas. If you measure only outside Ex zones, a non-ATEX analyzer is sufficient.
Q3: Can crews collect data route-by-route during watches?
Yes. A route-based workflow lets crews follow predefined points, record FFT/envelope data, and trend results fleet-wide.
Q4: What outputs should I expect from a marine vibration analyzer?
RMS overall levels, spectra (FFT), envelope, phase (when available), severity indicators, and exportable reports for maintenance planning.