Vibration Spectra
Why frequency-domain views can separate machine behaviours that overlap in a single overall vibration value.
What this topic covers
Why frequency-domain views can separate machine behaviours that overlap in a single overall vibration value.
Core ideas
A spectrum shows how vibration energy is distributed across frequency.
Features may relate to rotational speed, harmonics, bearing behaviour, gear mesh or structural response.
Patterns are evidence for diagnosis, not automatic proof of one failure mode.
Program tradeoffs
Load, speed and operating state can change signals even when machine condition is unchanged.
What good evidence looks like
Diagnosis should combine vibration, temperature, lubrication, process and maintenance history where appropriate.
Lifecycle perspective
Monitoring should produce actionable work or engineering review rather than accumulating alarms without response.