Overview

A detailed vibration analysis was conducted on the Oil Transfer Pump (Machine ID: PM-01) to evaluate the health condition of the equipment and identify the root cause of elevated vibration levels. The assessment was carried out in accordance with ISO 20816-3 Standards.

The machine was operating under critical vibration conditions, particularly at the Pump NDE (Non-Drive End) bearing, where severe vibration amplitudes were detected. Immediate corrective action was implemented to restore equipment reliability and operational stability.

Equipment Details

Vibration Severity Classification

Initial Condition Assessment

During vibration monitoring conducted on 18.02.2026, the equipment was found operating in a Critical condition due to excessive vibration levels at the Pump NDE bearing in the vertical direction.

The measured vibration amplitude reached approximately 19.1 mm/sec, significantly exceeding acceptable operating limits.

Further site inspection identified that the externally provided damper system bolts had become loose, contributing to resonance-related vibration amplification.

Vibration Readings

Date: 18.02.2026: Initial Readings – Damper Bolts Loose Condition

Date: 19.02.2026: Final Readings – After Tightening Damper Bolts

Spectrums and Waveform

Key Observations

• The equipment health condition was categorized as Critical due to excessive vibration at the Pump NDE bearing.
• The vibration spectrum showed dominant frequencies at:
  • 274.9 Hz (7× RPM – vane pass frequency)
  • 39.3 Hz (1× RPM) along with harmonics.
• Machine running frequency varied depending on flow conditions.
• Significant vibration fluctuations were observed in relation to process flow changes affecting both suction and discharge lines.
• The installed tuned mass damper system intended to shift the natural frequency was found with loosened mounting bolts during inspection.

Immediate Corrective Action Implemented

On 19.02.2026, immediate corrective action was carried out in coordination with the mechanical maintenance team while the pump remained operational.

Action Taken

• Tightening of external damper system bolts.

Result

• Vibration level at Pump NDE Vertical reduced from:
  • 19.1 mm/sec → 4.5 mm/sec

This corrective action successfully restored the equipment vibration level from Critical to within acceptable operating limits.

Root Cause Analysis

The primary cause of excessive vibration was identified as:

Loose External Damper Mounting Bolts: The loosened damper assembly reduced the effectiveness of the tuned mass damping system, allowing resonance amplification and increased vibration levels at the Pump NDE location.

Conclusion

The vibration analysis confirmed that the elevated vibration levels were primarily associated with resonance behavior caused by loose damper bolts. Immediate tightening of the damper assembly significantly reduced vibration amplitudes and improved overall machine condition.

The case highlights the importance of:

• Regular vibration monitoring
• Mechanical integrity inspection
• Damper system verification
• Condition-based maintenance practices

Recommendations

• Ensure all damper bolts are properly tightened during scheduled maintenance activities.
• Continue close vibration analysis to detect any recurrence of elevated vibration levels.
• Review flow-related operating conditions influencing vibration behavior.
• Provide tuned mass damper design details and previous commissioning/test records for further engineering validation and analysis.

Results Summary

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