How vibration analysis makes life easier for screens

Aggregate producers rely on their equipment to keep operations running smoothly.

Productivity and profits depend not only on maintaining high efficiency, but preventing disruptive downtime that costs producers money every minute the screening plant is not functioning.

Screen boxes and screen media, in particular, take on a lot of day-to-day stress and must be well maintained to prevent unexpected breakdowns. Adhering to regular service intervals is necessary, but it can only go so far in anticipating the maintenance needs of equipment.

Even if vibrating screens are functioning, they might not be at maximum efficiency. Productivity lost from underperforming equipment can be an unidentified burden on an aggregate operation’s profitability.

Producers can use vibration analysis technology to get the information they need to prevent unforeseen breakdowns, as well as optimize their vibrating screens for maximum performance. Vibration analysis tools are an easy way to get started and obtain basic information quickly.

What vibration analysis offers

1. Greater productivity. Vibration analysis technology gathers data on a screen box by measuring parameters such as g-force, stroke, rpm, orbit – and even lateral movement. This valuable data can give producers the information they need to fine-tune their machine for optimum productivity. It can even help prevent costly breakdowns.

2. Improved machine longevity. Aggregate producers are well aware of the abuse a screen box experiences in a normal workday. Operations invest many resources in choosing, integrating and maintaining their equipment, so protecting an investment is of the utmost importance.

Vibration analysis gives screening plant managers the information needed to fine-tune and properly maintain equipment. It helps pinpoint issues that would often go undetected, such as weakened springs on the side plate that can lead to significant machine damage.

3. Shutdown-free measurement. Certain vibration analysis tools offer the ability to collect data without shutting down equipment. Stealing nothing from the day’s production, these types of tools use a sensor positioned on the screen box and conduct tests as the machine operates.

4. Immediate results. Some vibration analysis tools offer immediate insight into equipment performance, allowing operators to view results within minutes.

Takeaways

Producers can use the information vibration analysis tools gather to determine whether a more in-depth analysis is needed. If questions come up or further analysis is needed, it’s best to work with a trusted manufacturer to analyze test results and maximize productivity.

Lars Bräunling is director of product technology at Major.