Condition monitoring is the continuous inspection and observation of equipment and machinery in an industrial plant.
Condition monitoring is the continual observation and inspection of equipment and machinery. This process is part of preventive or predictive maintenance and is used to identify problems with a machine before it breaks down. While condition monitoring itself doesn’t involve actual repairs, it does help alert businesses to the need to schedule repairs or maintenance work. This process can be applied to virtually any type of equipment, from boilers and heat exchangers to rotating equipment and other machinery found in an industrial setting.
Condition monitoring ensures that manufacturing processes are not disrupted or disrupted by technical issues.
Visual inspection is the most cost effective and widely used type of condition monitoring. This type of monitoring is usually carried out by the equipment operators themselves, who are usually the most familiar with these machines. During a visual inspection, operators look for signs of a potential problem, such as leaks, cracks, rust or corrosion. The inspector can also check for loose bolts or bearings, as well as misalignment or other issues that could lead to equipment failure. Visual condition monitoring can also include checking filters or simply inspecting the machine for debris that could clog internal mechanisms.
In addition to visual inspections, companies can also benefit from more advanced forms of condition monitoring. An example is thermography, in which inspectors use special infrared scanners to detect internal problems with equipment. This type of monitoring can also involve things like oil analysis, which can alert operators to issues like wear or contamination. The most advanced systems rely on special sensors to provide constant information about the equipment. These sensors send information to a computer, where maintenance personnel can analyze current conditions and watch for abnormalities or failures.
The condition monitoring process offers numerous benefits to companies. Regular monitoring and predictive maintenance can reduce the risk of machine failure, helping to minimize downtime and reduce repair costs over time. Equipment that is monitored and maintained properly is also less likely to contribute to accidents, which not only helps keep insurance costs down, but also protects workers from accidents. This process often helps companies create more accurate quotes by providing accurate information about the current status of key equipment and machinery.
While condition monitoring can be used in almost any type of environment, it is perhaps best suited for factories and industrial facilities. This process is also a powerful technology in power plants, where large-scale equipment often requires considerable maintenance and care. Even commercial businesses and organizations can use condition monitoring techniques to maintain boilers, furnaces, and refrigeration equipment.