About this title

The Simplified Handbook of Vibration Analysis series explains how to determine the health of rotating/reciprocating machinery by analyzing vibration signatures. Written in a non-technical, easy-to- follow manner, these books emphasize practical experience and real-world problem solving.

Although some mathematical equations are included in the text, a background in physics or mathematics is not necessary. The emphasis is on how to measure and resolve vibration problems, not on why the vibrations behave the way they do. These texts will be an invaluable resource for any maintenance personnel responsible for machinery vibration analysis.

Volume 1 begins by discussing how mechanical systems vibrate in response to forcing functions. This leads to a discussion of vector representation of force, creating a foundation for the analysis techniques discussed later in the handbook. The various types of transducers that can be used to collect vibration data are explained in detail, along with strengths and weaknesses of each type. A chapter on General Analysis Techniques discusses the vibration analysis procedure itself, offering many useful hints on identifying the types of vibration that could be present in your machine. Finally, chapters on Phase, Field Balancing, and Shaft Alignment apply the analysis procedure to balancing rotors in the field and to aligning coupled shafts.

Volume 2 focuses on applied vibration analysis. There are chapters focusing on vibration sources and analysis techniques for specific machinery: fans, pumps, motors, compressors, turbines, and engines. Other chapters discuss vibration considerations for power transmission components such as gears, belts, chains, universal joints, and flexible couplings. Two chapters discuss vibration analysis techniques using analog and digital analyzers. These are followed by a chapter on data collection techniques, which provides detailed information on planning and implementing a vibration data collection program. Finally, two chapters discuss the theory and application of Experimental Modal Analysis and Finite Element Analysis.

Acerca del Autor - Art Crawford

Art Crawford has been an active consultant in the vibration industry for the last 45 years. He is the Founder and President of ARC Associates, a vibration consulting firm with customers worldwide, and is a senior vibration analyst for Computational Systems, Incorporated (where he also teaches courses in advanced vibration analysis).

In 1969, Crawford founded Production Measurements Corporation (PMC), a leading manufacturer of electronic equipment for engine analysis, vibration analysis, and vibration monitoring. Prior to 1969, he was director of electronic research for ABEX Corporation, where he was retained as a consultant on the design and development of engine vibration analysis and dynamic balance equipment for the automotive industry.

Art was the Founder and President of IRD Mechanalysis in 1952. IRD, profitable every year under his direction, remains a leader in the field of vibration analysis and dynamic balance equipment. He holds a B.S. and M.S. in Physics from The Ohio State University. Steve Crawford is the Founder and President of Crawford Communications, a technical publication consulting firm in Columbus, Ohio. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University, much to the chagrin of his father.