Data Analysis

This plot is a simple representation of instantaneous signal levels versus time in a similar way to
a trend plot for a static variable. The main difference is that the time interval between two
consecutive samples is very small (Reference 1). When digitized dynamic data is stored for
analysis, it is commonly referred to as a “waveform” sample, since the original analog waveform
can be reproduced by the digital timebase display.
Figure 17 shows an example of Timebase representation, corresponding to the output signals of
two displacement transducers, recorded at a machine speed of 8435 rpm. Both sensors are
installed at the same angular location (45 degrees left from vertical direction), but on different
bearings, Inboard and Outboard.
Even when these waveforms are based on “overall” (unfiltered) data, it is possible to detect a
smooth sinusoidal shape with a period of 20.9 ms, which is equivalent to a frequency of 47,85
Hz (2871 cpm). Since the machine is running at 8435 rpm, this frequency sub synchronous
(less than 1X) vibration. One of the advantages of this plot format is that, despite not being
filtered signals, it is still possible to get an idea of the relative phase between both ends of the
rotor deflection at this low frequency, especially in those cases where no filter has been
previously set for this unexpected frequency component. By comparing maximum levels at both
signals, it becomes obvious that they are in phase. Considering our previous discussions about
relative and absolute phase, as well as the transducer response curve, these two signals
indicate that at both bearings, the rotor reaches the minimum distance to the vibration
transducer at the same time. In this example, the rotor is experiencing the excitation of its first
natural frequency, associated to its first mode (shown on Figure 18), but at nominal speed.