How reliably can damage signals from rolling-element bearings be detected using current sensors?
Kevin Lang and Thorsten Margis from SONOTEC, together with Patrick Iten from HELP MACHINES AG, explored this question during a two-day practical test.
On the first day, the sensors were tested under controlled laboratory conditions on rolling-element bearings with various types of damage and different lubrication conditions. The objective was to investigate different potential applications for the sensors and analyze the collected data. The results showed that damage signals from rolling-element bearings could be detected using these sensors.
On the second day, the focus shifted from the laboratory to an industrial setting. At a gravel plant, the sensors were tested under real operating conditions, and the measurements were compared with those obtained using the SONAPHONE. Even in the noisy industrial environment, relevant damage signals could be detected.
The tests show that these current sensors can detect damage signals from rolling-element bearings under both controlled test conditions and real operating conditions, while also providing information about the lubrication condition of the bearings.
The tests therefore confirm the potential of current sensors under both controlled conditions and in industrial applications, providing valuable insights for exploring further areas of application.