Developing Motor Fault Identified Through Remote Analysis

Working to Achieve

AVT Reliability® supports this cement manufacturing site through regular Remote Diagnostics Centre (RDC) analysis, using Machine Sentry® fixed sensors to provide ongoing visibility of rotating asset condition.

The aim is to identify developing changes early, translate condition data into practical maintenance actions and help the site move intervention away from reactive failure towards planned, conditionbased maintenance.

The Challenge

During a routine monthly RDC review, AVT analysts identified elevated vibration response on an electric motor. The abnormal condition indicated that further investigation was required to establish the underlying cause.

Changes in motor vibration can provide an early indication that an asset is no longer operating as expected. Identifying and escalating these changes gives the maintenance team an opportunity to inspect the equipment before deterioration results in a more disruptive inservice failure.

Our Approach

Condition data collected using Machine Sentry® Fixed (MSF-2) sensors and a Gateway was reviewed remotely by AVT Reliability® as part of the site’s established monitoring programme.

When the elevated motor response was identified, the condition was communicated to the site so that a physical inspection could be carried out and appropriate corrective action planned.

Our Findings

Inspection identified significant damage to the motor windings. The motor required rewinding before being returned to satisfactory service.

The finding demonstrated the value of combining remote condition monitoring with site inspection: vibration data identified that the motor condition had changed, allowing the maintenance team to focus its investigation on the affected asset and determine the required repair.

The Solution

The motor was removed for repair and the windings were rewound. Following completion of the work, the vibration response reduced, providing confirmation that the corrective action had improved the motor’s operating condition.

Follow-Up

The asset remains within the site’s monthly RDC programme. Continued Machine Sentry® monitoring gives AVT Reliability® and the maintenance team a post-repair baseline against which future changes in motor condition can be assessed.