Balance Quality and Vibration

Levels for Fans

ANSI/AMCA 204-05
An American National Standard
Approved by ANSI on September 23, 2005

The International Authority on Air System Components

 ANSI/AMCA Standard 204 - 05

Balance Quality and Vibration Levels

for Fans

AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL

30 WEST UNIVERSITY DRIVE
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.
PHONE: (847) 394-0150
fax: (847) 253-0088
web: WWW.AMCA.ORG
 © 2003 by Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or translation of any part of this work beyond that permitted by Sections
107 and 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act without the permission of the copyright owner is
unlawful. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the Executive Director,
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc.

ii
Forward/Authority
This edition of ANSI/AMCA Standard 204 was adopted by the membership of the
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc., on 03 August 2003. This
standard addresses the need of both the users and manufacturers of fans for tech-
nically accurate but uncomplicated information of the subjects of fan balance pre-
cision and vibration levels. The data presented herein is referenced to applicable
national and international standards and is in harmony with these standards,
including ISO 14694:2003, Industrial fans - Specification for balance quality and
vibration levels. Information from the reference standards is supplemented by
years of experience on the part of committee members and from other contribu-
tors in the industry.
The AMCA 204 Committee consisted of:

Dr. John Cermak, Chair Acme Engineering & Manufacturing Corporation

Dick Williamson, Vice Chair Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd.
Dr. Vasanthi Iyer Air Movement Solutions, LLC
Ralph Jackson Cincinnati Fan & Ventilator Company
Enrique Hernandez Flakt Woods Mexico Fans, S.A. de C.V.
Tim Kuski Greenheck Fan Corporation
David Marshall Howden Buffalo, Inc.
Tan Tin Tin Kruger Ventilation Industries Pte. Ltd.
Bradley F. Skidmore. P.E. Loren Cook Company
Scott Phillips The New York Blower Company
Robert W. Lipke RWL Technical Services, Inc.
Paul R. Saxon (ret.) AMCA International Staff
Joe Brooks AMCA International Staff

Disclaimer
AMCA uses its best efforts to produce standards for the benefit of the industry and
the public in light of available information and accepted industry practices.
However, AMCA does not guarantee, certify or assure the safety of performance
of any products, components or systems tested, designed, installed or operated in
accordance with AMCA standards or that any tests conducted under its standards
will be non-hazardous or free from risk.

Objections
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. will consider and decide
all written complaints regarding its standards, certification programs, or interpreta-
tions thereof. For information on procedures for submitting and handling com-
plaints, write to:
AIR MOVEMENT AND CONTROL ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL
30 WEST UNIVERSITY DRIVE
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL 60004-1893 USA

iii
iv
Contents Page
1. Purpose/Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
1.1 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
1.2 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
2. Normative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
3. Definitions / Units of Measure / Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
3.1 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
3.2 Units of Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
3.3 Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
4. Application Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
5. Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
5.1 Balance Quality Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
5.2 Permissable Residual Residual Unbalance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
6. Vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
6.1 Measurement Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
6.2 Fan Support System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
6.3 Factory Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
6.4 Vibration Limits for Operation In-Situ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
7. Other Rotating Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
8. Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
8.1 Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
8.2 Vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Annex A: Conversion Chart (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Annex B: Relationships (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Annex C: Maximum Permissible Residual Unbalance (Informative) . . . . . . . . .20
Annex D: Instruments and Calibration (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
D.1 Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
D.2 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Annex E: References (Informative) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

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AMCA INTERNATIONAL, INC.
BALANCE QUALITY AND
VIBRATION LEVELS FOR
FANS
1. Purpose/scope
This standard addresses the subjects of fan bal-
ance and vibration. It is part of a series of stan-
dards and publications listed in Annex E that cover
important aspects related to the design, manufac-
ture and use of fans.
Other standards exist that deal with the vibration of
machines in general. This standard considers only
fans. Vibration is recognized to be an important
parameter regarding the mechanical operation of
fans. Balance quality is a precondition to satisfac-
tory mechanical operation.
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of this standard is to define appropri-
ate fan balance quality and operating vibration lev-
els to individuals who specify, manufacture, use,
and maintain fans.
1.2 Scope
This standard covers fans with rigid rotors, gener-
ally found in commercial heating, ventilating and
air conditioning; industrial process applications;
mine/tunnel ventilation applications, and power
generation applications. Other applications are
not specifically excluded, except as follows:
Excluded are installations that involve severe
forces, impacts, or extreme temperature acting on
the fan.
Fan foundations and installation practices are
beyond the scope of this standard. Foundation
design and fan installation are not normally the
responsibilities of the fan manufacturer. It is fully
expected that the foundation upon which the fan is
mounted will provide the support and stability nec-
essary to meet the vibration criteria of the fan as it
is delivered from the factory.
ANSI/AMCA 204-05
Other factors such as impeller cleanliness, aero-
dynamic conditions, background vibration, opera-
tion at rotational speeds other than those agreed
upon, and maintenance of the fan affect fan vibra-
tion level but are beyond the scope of this stan-
dard.
This standard is intended to cover only the bal-
ance or vibration of the fan and does not take into
account the effect of fan vibration on personnel,
equipment, or processes.
Any or all portions of this standard, or modifica-
tions thereof, are subject to agreement between
the concerned parties.
2. Normative references
The following standards contain provisions that,
through specific reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this American National Standard. At
the time of publication of this standard the editions
indicated were valid.
All standards are subject to revision, and parties to
agreements based on this American National
Standard are encouraged to investigate the possi-
bility of applying the most recent editions of the
standards listed below.
[1] ANSI S2.7-1982 (R1997) Balancing
Terminology, American National
Standards Institute, 11 West 42nd Street,
New York, NY 10035 U.S.A
[2] ISO 1925:2001 Mechanical vibration –
Balancing vocabulary, International
Organization for Standardization, 1 Rue
de Varembe, Case Oistake 56, Ch-1211,
Geneve 20, SWITZERLAND
[3] ANSI S2.19-1989 (R1997) Balance
Quality of Rigid Rotating Bodies (ISO
1940), American National Standards
Institute, 11 West 42nd Street, New York,
NY 10035 U.S.A.
1
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

3. Definitions / units of measure / symbols 3.1.8 Fan vibration level: The vibration ampli-
tude measured at a fan bearing and expressed in
units of displacement or velocity.
3.1 Definitions

3.1.9 Filter: A device used to separate vibration

3.1.1 Balancing: The process of adding or
on the basis of its frequency. Vibration meters nor-
removing mass in a plane or planes on a rotor in
mally have adjustable filters to allow measure-
order to move the center of gravity towards the
ments at a frequency range of interest.
axis of rotation.

3.1.10 Filter-in; sharp: Vibration measured only

3.1.2 Balance quality grade: The recommend-
at a frequency of interest.
ed limits for residual unbalance of a rotor based
upon the intended application. (Note: Commonly
used balance quality grades in ANSI S2.19 refer to 3.1.11 Filter-out; broad pass: Vibration meas-
the vibration that would result if the rotor operated ured over a wide frequency range; sometimes
in free space, i.e., Balance Quality Grade G6.3 called “overall” vibration.
corresponds to a shaft vibration of 6.3 mm/s veloc-
ity, at the operating rotational speed of the rotor).
3.1.12 Flexible support: A fan support system
The value represents the product of the unbalance
designed so that the first natural frequency of the
multiplied by the angular velocity and divided by
support is well below the frequency corresponding
the weight of the rotor.
to the operating rotational speed of the fan. Often
this involves compliant elastic elements between
3.1.3 Displacement: The distance that a body the fan and the support structure. “This condition
moves from a stationary or neutral position. is achieved by suspending the machine on a
spring or by mounting on an elastic support
(springs, rubber, etc.). The natural oscillation fre-
3.1.4 Electrical run-out: The total measured
quencies of the suspension and machine is typi-
variation in the apparent location of a ferrous shaft
cally less than 25% of the frequency correspon-
surface during a complete slow rotation of that
ding to the lowest speed of the machine under
shaft as determined by an eddy current probe sys-
test”—-NEMA MG 1-1993, Rev. 1, Part 7, Section
tem. This measurement may be affected by varia-
7.06.1.
tions in the electrical/magnetic properties of the
shaft material as well as variations in the shaft sur-
face. 3.1.13 Foundation: Refers to the component to
which the fan is mounted that provides the neces-
sary support. A fan foundation must have suffi-
3.1.5 Fan application category: A grouping
cient mass and rigidity to avoid vibration amplifica-
used to describe fan applications, their appropriate
tion.
Balance Quality Grades, and Recommended
Vibration Levels.
3.1.14 Frequency: In cyclical motion, the num-
ber of cycles that occur per second (Hz) or cycles
3.1.6 Fan assembly: The fan assembly consists
occurring per minute (CPM).
of those items typically packaged together as “a
complete fan”, including, as applicable: rotor, bear-
ings, belts, housing, motor, sheaves, and mount- 3.1.15 Mechanical run-out: The total actual
ing base/structure. In the case of a cooling tower variation in the location of a shaft surface during a
application, the fan assembly is considered to con- complete slow rotation of the shaft as determined
sist of the rotor alone. by a stationary measurement device such as a dial
indicator.
3.1.7 Fan rotor: An assembly consisting of a fan
impeller mounted on its shaft. (AMCA 99-0066) 3.1.16 Journal: The part of a rotor which is in
contact with or supported by a bearing in which it

2

revolves. [ISO 1925]
3.1.17 Mils: A unit of measure that describes dis-
placement. One mil equals one-thousandth of an
inch (1 mil = 0.001 inch)
3.1.18 Overall Fan Vibration: See Filter-Out;
Broad Pass.
3.1.19 Peak (pk) : A displacement, velocity, or
acceleration value occurring at the maximum devi-
ation from a zero or stationary value. See Figure
3-1 and see also: RMS.
3.1.20 Peak-To-Peak (pk-pk): The total range
traversed in one cycle. Peak-to-peak readings
apply to displacement only.
3.1.21 Residual Unbalance: Unbalance of any
kind that remains after balancing. [ANSI S2.7-
1982 (R1986)]
3.1.22 Rigid Support: A fan support system
designed so that the first natural frequency of the
system is well above the frequency corresponding
to the operating rotational speed of the fan. “Note:
The rigidity of a foundation is a relative quantity. It
must be considered in conjunction with the rigidity
of the machine bearing system. The ratio of bear-
ing housing vibration to foundation vibration is a
characteristic quantity for the evaluation of founda-
tion flexibility influences. A foundation may be con-
sidered massive if the vibration amplitude of the
foundation (in any direction) near the machine’s
feet or base frame are less than 25% of the maxi-
mum amplitude that is measured at the adjacent
bearing housing in any direction.” —-NEMA MG1-
1993, Rev. 1, Part 7, Section 7.06.2.
3.1.23 Rigid rotor: A rotor is considered to be
rigid when its unbalance can be corrected in any
two arbitrarily selected planes (of rotation). After
the correction, its residual unbalance does not
change significantly relative to the shaft axis at any
(rotational) speed up to the maximum service
(rotational) speed. [Adapted from ANSI S2.7-
1982(R1986)]
3.1.24 RMS: The root-mean-square value. For
true sinusoidal motion the RMS value is equal to
ANSI/AMCA 204-05
2 2 times the peak value.
3.1.25 Rotor: A body, capable of rotation, gener-
ally with journals which are supported by bearings.
[ANSI S2.7] See also: Fan Rotor.
3.1.26 Speed, balancing: That rotational speed,
expressed in revolutions per minute (rpm), at
which a (fan) rotor is balanced. [ANSI S2.7]
3.1.27 Speed, design: The maximum rotational
speed, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm),
for which the fan is designed to operate.
3.1.28 Speed, service: Rotational speed, meas-
ured in revolutions per minute (rpm), at which a
rotor operates in its final installation or environ-
ment.
3.1.29 Tri-axial set: A set of three measure-
ments taken in three mutually perpendicular direc-
tions, normally: horizontal, vertical, and axial.
3.1.30 Trim balance: The balance process that
makes minor unbalance corrections which may
become necessary as a result of the fan assembly
or installation process.
3.1.31 Unbalance: A condition of a rotor in which
its rotation results in centrifugal forces being
applied to the rotor’s supporting bearings.
Unbalance is usually measured by the product of
the mass of the rotor times the distance between
its center of gravity and its center of rotation in a
plane.
3.1.32 Velocity: In cyclic motion, the time rate of
change in displacement.
3.1.33 Vibration: The alternating mechanical
motion of an elastic system, the components of
which are amplitude, frequency and phase. In
general practice, vibration values are reported as:
 displacement, peak-to-peak, in mm (mils)
 velocity, peak, in mm/s (in./s)
 acceleration, peak, in g’s, or m/s2 (in./s2)
3
ANSI/AMCA 204-05
Figure 3.1 - Vibration cycle
Standard gravitational acceleration (1g) = 9.80665
m/s2 (386.09 in./s2)
3.1.34 Vibration spectrum: A graphical repre-
sentation of vibration amplitude versus frequency.
3.1.35 Vibration transducer: A device designed
to be attached to a mechanical system for meas-
urement of vibration. It produces an electronic sig-
nal that can be displayed or otherwise processed,
that is proportional to the vibration of the system.
3.2 Units of measure
Units of measure shall be as given in the defini-
tions found in Section 3.1. In the text and exam-
ples, SI (metric) units of measure are given as pri-
mary units followed by IP (inch-pound) units of
measure.
3.3 Symbols
Symbols used in this standard are
identified/defined where they are presented in per-
tinent equations.
4. Application categories
The design/structure of a fan and its intended
application are important criteria for categorizing
the many types of fans in terms of applicable and
4
meaningful balance quality grades and vibration
levels.
Table 4-1 categorizes fans by their application and
driver power to arrive at appropriate Balance and
Vibration (BV) application categories.
A fan manufacturer will typically identify the appro-
priate application category based on the type of
fan and power. A purchaser of a complete fan
assembly may be interested in one or more of the
following: the Balance Grade (Table 5-1), vibration
as tested in the factory (Table 6-2), or vibration in-
situ (Table 6-3). Typically, one Balance and
Vibration category will cover both the application
and the driver power considerations. However, a
purchaser may request a Balance and Vibration
category different from the one listed for the appli-
cation and driver power considerations. Some
may desire a more precise balance quality grade
or lower vibration level than is typical for the appli-
cation.
In most cases, the Balance and Vibration catego-
ry, the balance quality grade and vibration limits
must be agreed upon as part of the contract for the
fan. In the event that no such agreement exists,
fans purchased as being required to comply with
this standard shall meet the Table 6-2 vibration
limits (assembled fan) or the Table 5-1 residual
unbalance requirements (unassembled fan or
rotor assembly only).
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Table 4.1 -Fan application categories for balance and vibration

APPLICATION EXAMPLES DRIVER POWER kW FAN APPLICATION

(HP) LIMITS CATEGORY, BV

RESIDENTIAL Ceiling fans, attic fans, < .15(0.2) BV-1

window AC
> .15(0.2) BV-2

HVAC & AGRICUL- Building ventilation and < 3.7(5.0) BV-2

TURAL air conditioning; commer-
cial systems
> 3.7(5.0) BV-3

INDUSTRIAL Baghouse, scrubber, < 298(400) BV-3

PROCESS & POWER mine, conveying, boilers,
GENERATION, ETC. combustion air, pollution
> 298(400) BV-4
control, wind tunnels

TRANSPORTATION & Locomotives, trucks, < 15(20) BV-3

MARINE automobiles
> 15(20) BV-4

TRANSIT/TUNNEL Subway emergency ven- < 75(100) BV-3

tilation, tunnel fans,
garage ventilation
> 75(100) BV-4

Tunnel Jet Fans ALL BV-4

PETROCHEMICAL Hazardous gases, < 37(50) BV-3

PROCESS process fans
> 37(50) BV-4

COMPUTER CHIP Clean room ALL BV-5

MANUFACTURE

The purchaser may contract for a particular 5. Balancing

mounting arrangement to be used for factory test-
ing of an assembled fan in order to match (as
nearly as possible) the planned in-situ mounting at
the job site. If no specific contract on
balance/vibration exists, the fan may be mounted
either rigidly or flexibly for the test, regardless of
the in-situ mounting.
The fan manufacturer is responsible for balancing
the fan impeller to acceptable commercial stan-
dards. This standard is based on ANSI S2.19 (ISO
1940). Balancing done in conformance with this
standard shall be performed on a highly sensitive,
purpose-built balance machine that permits accu-
rate assessment of residual unbalance.

5
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

5.1 Balance quality grade SI UNITS:

The following Balance Quality Grades apply to fan eper = 1 000(G / ω)

impellers. A fan manufacturer may include other
rotating components (shaft, coupling, sheave/pul- Uper = M eper = [30 000/π]G M /N
ley, etc.) in the rotating assembly being balanced.
In addition, balance of individual components may
be required. See Annex E for balance require- ω = 2πN/60
ments for couplings and pulleys.
where:
eper= Specific unbalance, μ m or (g mm)/kg
Table 5.1 - BV categories and balance quality Uper= Permissible residual unbalance, (g
grades
mm)
ω = Angular velocity, rad/s
FAN BALANCE QUALITY GRADE N = Rotor rotational speed, rpm
APPLICATION FOR RIGID M = Rotor mass, kg
CATEGORY ROTORS/IMPELLER
I-P UNITS:

BV-1* G 16
eper = (G / 25.4ω)

BV-2 G 16 Uper = W eper = (30/[π 25.4])G W /N for Uper in

(lb in.)
BV-3 G 6.3
ω = 2πN/60

BV-4 G 2.5
BV-5 G1.0
* Note: In FAN APPLICATION CATEGORY BV-1
there may be some extremely small fan rotors
weighing less than 227 grams (8 ounces). In
such cases, residual unbalance may be difficult
to determine accurately. The fabrication
process must ensure reasonably equal weight
distribution about the axis of rotation.
5.2 Permissible residual unbalance
G grades as given in Table 5-1 and Balance
Quality Grades are constants derived from the
product of the relationship eperω, expressed in
mm/s, where eper is the permissible residual spe-
cific unbalance, and ω is the angular velocity of the
impeller.
Thus,
6
where:
eper = Specific unbalance, in. or (lb in.)/lb
Uper = Permissible residual unbalance
(moment), (lb in.)
ω = Angular velocity, rad/s
N = Rotor rotational speed, rpm
W = Rotor weight, lbm
In most applications, the permissible residual
unbalance Uper in each of two correction planes
can be set at Uper/2. Whenever possible during
balancing, a fan impeller should be mounted on
the shaft that will be used for the final assembly. If
a mandrel is used during balancing, care should
be taken to avoid eccentricity due to a loose hub-
to-mandrel fit.
Refer to Annex C for graph of eper vs. service
speed.
Measurement of the residual unbalance shall be
made in accordance with ANSI S2.19, Section 8.
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

6. Vibration 6.1.1 Seismic measurements

6.1 Measurement requirements All vibration values in this standard are seismic
measurements that represent motion of the fan
bearing housing.
Figures 6.1 through 6.4 illustrate some of the pos-
sible locations and directions for taking vibration
measurements at each fan bearing. The number Observations shall include measurements made
and location of measurements to be made during with accelerometer or velocity-type instruments.
factory or in-situ operation is at the discretion of Particular attention should be given to ensure that
the fan manufacturer or by agreement with the the vibration-sensing transducer is correctly
purchaser. It is recommended that measurements mounted without looseness, rocking, or reso-
be made at the impeller shaft bearings. Where nance.
this is not possible, the pick-up shall be mounted
in the shortest direct mechanical path between the
The size and weight of the transducer and its
transducer and the bearing. A transducer shall not
mounting system should not be so large that its
be mounted on an unsupported panel, guard, or
presence significantly affects the vibration
elsewhere on the fan where a solid signal path
response characteristics of the fan. Variables
cannot be obtained. A transducer may be mounted
associated with transducer mounting and vari-
on a fan housing and or flange where a solid sig-
ations in instrument calibration can lead to
nal path is obtained between a bearing and the
variations in measurements of ±10%.
measurement point.
6.1.2 Displacement measurements
A horizontal measurement shall always be made
in a radial direction and perpendicular to the axis
The following discussion applies to measurement
of rotation. A vertical measurement reading shall
of shaft displacement within a sleeve bearing oil
always be made perpendicular to the axis of rota-
film by means of proximity probe systems.
tion and perpendicular to a horizontal reading. An
axial measurement shall always be made parallel
to the shaft (rotor) axis of rotation. Such systems measure the relative motion
between the surface of the rotating shaft and the

Figure 6.1 - Transducer mounting locations - Axial fan, horzontal airflow

7
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Figure 6.2 - Transducer mounting locatons - Single width centrifugal fan

Figure 6.3 -Transducer mounting locations - Double width centrifugal fan

8

Figure 6.4 - Transducer mounting locations - Axial fan, vertical airflow
bearing housing. Clearly, the allowable displace-
ment amplitude must be limited to a value less
than the diametric clearance of the bearing. This
internal clearance varies as a function of the bear-
ing size, the radial/axial loading, the bearing type,
and the axis of interest (i.e., some designs have an
elliptical bore with larger clearance in the horizon-
tal axis than in the vertical axis). Therefore, it is
not the intent of this standard to establish discrete
shaft displacement limits for all bearings and fan
applications. However, the following guideline is
recommended for shaft displacement limits. The
values shown in Table 6-1 are percentages of the
total available clearance within the bearing in each
axis.
Caution should be used when relying solely on
ANSI/AMCA 204-05
proximity probes for vibration alarming. It is possi-
ble for the proximity probe support and the fan
shaft to move in phase such that no relative motion
is measured even though high vibration levels rel-
ative to a fixed frame of reference exist. Because
of this, when proximity probes are used, seismic
vibration pickups are also recommended.
This measurement involves the apparent motion of
the shaft surface. Measurements are affected not
only by vibration of the shaft but also by any
mechanical run-out of the shaft if the shaft is bent
or out-of-round. The magnetic/electrical properties
of the shaft material at the point of measurement
also affect the electrical run-out of the shaft as
measured by a proximity probe. The combined
mechanical and electrical probe-track run-out of
9
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Table 6.1 - Maximum recommended displacements

CONDITION Maximum recommended Displacement as a percent

of available diametral clearance (Any axis)

Start-up/Satisfactory <+25%
Note: Contact bearing supplier to obtain the available diametral and axial
clearances within the particular sleeve bearing being used.

Alarm Level 50%

Shut-Down level 70%

the shaft material at the point of measurement • Shut-down = (0.70 H 0.33 mm)
should not exceed 0.0127mm (0.0005 in.) peak-to- = 0.231 mm, pk-pk (SI)
peak, or 25% of the start-up/satisfactory vibration
displacement value, whichever is greater. This
= (0.70 H 0.013 in.)
run-out should be determined during a slow-roll
= 0.0091 in.
speed test (100 to 400 rpm), where the unbalance
or 9 mils, pk-pk (I-P)
forces on the rotor are negligible. Special shaft
preparation may be required to achieve satisfacto-
ry run-out measurement. Proximity probes should Combined mechanical and electrical run-out of the
be mounted directly in the bearing housing when- shaft at the point of vibration measurement:
ever possible.
a. 0.0127 mm (0.0005 in.)
EXAMPLE: Recommended guidelines for nor-
mal 152 mm (6 in.) diameter sleeve bearing
b. 0.25 H 0.0825 mm = 0.0052 mm (SI)
having a horizontal internal clearance of 0.33
mm (0.013 in.):
0.25 H 0.0033 in. = 0.0008 in.,
or 0.8 mils (I-P)
LIMITS OF RELATIVE SHAFT VIBRATION

Choose the greater of the two values (a or b),

• Start-up /satisfactory= (0.25 H 0.33 mm)
0.0052 mm (0.8 mils)
= 0.0825 mm, pk-pk (SI)

= (0.25 H 0.013 in.) 6.2 Fan support system

= 0.0033 in.
or 3.3 mils, pk-pk (I-P)
Fan installations are classified for vibration severi-
ty according to their support flexibility. To be clas-
• Alarm = (0.50 H 0.33 mm) sified as rigidly supported, the fan and support
= 0.165 mm, pk-pk (SI) system should have a fundamental (lowest) natu-
ral frequency above the running speed. To be
classified as flexibly supported, the fan and sup-
= (0.50 H 0.013 in.)
port system should have a fundamental frequency
= 0.0065 in.
below the running speed. Generally, a large, well-
or 6.5 mils, pk-pk (I-P)
designed concrete foundation will result in a rigid
support, whereas a fan mounted on vibration iso-
lators will be classified as flexibly supported.
10
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Fans mounted on steelwork can be in either cate- shown are for filter-out measurements taken at the
gory, depending on the structural design. In case bearing housings as shown in Figures 6-1 through
of doubt, analysis or tests should be performed to 6-4.
determine the fundamental natural frequency.
Note that in some cases a fan could be classified
The vibration velocity of a newly commissioned
as rigidly supported in one measurement direction
fan should be at or below the START-UP level. As
and flexibly supported in another.” (From AMCA
operation of the fan increases with time, it is
801-01, Section 5.3.3, p.19)
expected that fan vibration level will increase due
to wear and other accumulated effects. In gener-
al, an increase in vibration is reasonable as long
6.3 Factory tests
as the level does not reach the ALARM value for
the category.
The following vibration limit values apply to an
assembled fan tested in the manufacturer’s facto-
If the severity of vibration velocity increases to the
ry.
ALARM level, action should be initiated immedi-
ately to determine the cause of the increase, and
Table 6-2 Seismic vibration limits for tests action taken to correct the condition. Operation at
conducted at the factory this condition should be carefully monitored and
limited to the minimum time required to develop a
program of corrective action.
Fan Application Rigidly Flexibly
Category Mounted Mounted
mm/s (in./s) mm/s (in./s) If the vibration velocity increases to the SHUT-
DOWN level, corrective action should be taken
BV-1 12.7 (0.50) 15.2 (0.60) immediately or the fan should be shut down.
Failure to reduce the SHUT-DOWN level vibration
velocity to the acceptable recommended level
BV-2 5.1 (0.20) 7.6 (0.30) could lead to bearing failure, cracking of rotor parts
and fan housing structural welds, and ultimately, a
BV-3 3.8 (0.15) 5.1 (0.20)
catastrophic failure.

BV-4 2.5 (0.10) 3.8 (0.15)

Historical data is an important factor when consid-
ering the vibration severity of any fan installation.
BV-5 2.0 (0.08) 2.5 (0.10)
A sudden increase in vibration velocity level may
indicate the need for prompt inspection or mainte-
Values shown are peak velocity values, filter-in, at
nance. Transitory changes in vibration level that
the fan rotational speed during the factory test.
result from re-lubrication, maintenance, or process
upsets should not be used for evaluating the con-
dition of the equipment.
6.4 Vibration limits for operation in-situ

The in-situ vibration level of a fan is not solely

dependent upon the Balance Quality Grade.
Installation factors and the mass and stiffness of
the supporting system will influence the in-situ
vibration level (Refer to AMCA Publication 202
Troubleshooting). Therefore, in-situ fan vibration
level is not the responsibility of the fan manufactur-
er unless specified in the purchase contract.

The vibration velocity levels in Table 6-3 provide

guidelines for acceptable operation of fans in vari-
ous application categories. The velocity values
11
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Table 6-3 Seismic vibration velocity limits for operation in-situ

Condition Fan Rigidly Flexibly

Application Mounted Mounted
Category mm/s (in./s) mm/s (in./s)

Start-Up BV-1 14.0 (0.55) 15.2 (0.60)

BV-2 7.6 (0.30) 12.7 (0.50)

BV-3 6.4 (0.25) 8.8 (0.35)

BV-4 4.1 (0.16) 6.4 (0.25)

BV-5 2.5 (0.10) 4.1 (0.16)

Alarm BV-1 15.2 (0.60) 19.1 (0.75)

BV-2 12.7 (0.50) 19.1 (0.75)

BV-3 10.2 (0.40) 16.5 (0.65)

BV-4 6.4 (0.25) 10.2 (0.40)

BV-5 5.7 (0.20) 7.6 (0.30)

Shut-Down BV-1 NOTE 1 NOTE 1

BV-2 NOTE 1 NOTE 1

BV-3 12.7 (0.50) 17.8 (0.70)

BV-4 10.2 (0.40) 15.2 (0.60)

BV-5 7.6 (0.30) 10.2 (0.40)

Values shown are peak velocity, mm/s (inches/s), Filter out.

NOTE 1: Shutdown levels for fans in Fan Application Grades BV-1 and BV-2 must be established based
on historical data.

7. Other rotating components assembled fans to require trim balancing to reduce

Accessory rotating components that may affect fan
vibration levels include drive sheaves, belts, cou-
pling, and motor/driver device. When a fan is
ordered from the fan manufacturer “bare”, (i.e., no
drive or motor supplied or installed by fan manu-
facturer), it is not always practical or possible for
the fan manufacturer to perform a final assembly
test run, or factory test, to check vibration level.
Therefore, though the impeller may have been bal-
anced by the fan manufacturer, the customer is not
assured of a smooth running assembled fan until
the drive and/or driver are connected to the fan
shaft and the unit is run and tested to determine
the start-up vibration levels. It is common for
vibration to acceptable START-UP vibration levels.
The final assembly test run is recommended for all
new BV-3, BV-4 and BV-5 fan installations
BEFORE commissioning for service. This will
establish a baseline for future predictive mainte-
nance efforts.
The fan manufacturer cannot be responsible for
the effects of vibration of drive components added
after the factory test run.
Additional information on the balance quality or
vibration of components may be found in the refer-
ences given in Annex E.

12

8. Documentation
8.1 Balance
Written certification of the balance achieved for an
individual rotor shall be provided upon request
when negotiated. In such cases, it is recommend-
ed that the following information be included in the
balance certification report:
 Balance machine manufacturer and
model number
 Specify whether rotor was overhung or
between centers
 Specify whether balance method was sin-
gle or two-plane
 Specify mass of rotating assembly
 Note the residual unbalance in EACH cor-
rection plane
 Note the allowable residual unbalance in
each correction plane for the Balance
Quality Grade
 Note the applicable Balance Quality
Grade
 Acceptance criteria: Note whether rotor
balance passed or failed
 Supply a Certificate of Balance if required.
In some cases, keeping a written record of an indi-
vidual rotor is impractical. In such cases, the fan
manufacturer’s records or standard operating pro-
cedures shall be sufficient evidence of achieve-
ment of balance.
ANSI/AMCA 204-05
8.2 Vibration
Written certification of the vibration velocity level
achieved for a fan shall be provided upon request
when negotiated. In such cases, it is recommend-
ed that the following information be included in the
vibration certification report:
 Vibration instrumentation used: manufac-
turer and model number
 Fan operating point
 Fan rotational speed
 Note whether fan was flexibly or rigidly
mounted
 Description of measurements:
a. method of transducer attachment
to measurement location; posi-
tion and axis
b. units of measure used and refer-
ence levels
c. frequency, bandwidth, and
whether vibration analyzer was
tuned Filter-In or Filter-Out
 Allowable vibration velocity levels
 Measured vibration velocity levels
 Acceptance criteria: Note whether rotor
balance passed or failed
 Supply a Certificate of Vibration Velocity if
required.
In some cases, keeping a written record of an indi-
vidual rotor is impractical. In such cases, the fan
manufacturer’s records or standard operating pro-
cedures shall be sufficient evidence of achieve-
ment of balance.
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ANSI/AMCA 204-05

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14
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Annex A
(informative)

Conversion chart

Conversion factors between SI and I-P systems

QUANTITY I-P to SI SI to I-P

Length (ft) 0.3048 = m (m) 3.2808=f
(in.) 25.4 = mm (mm) 0.03937 = in.
Mass (lbm) 0.4535924 = kg (kg) 2.2046 = lbm
Time The unit of time is the second in both systems
Velocity (ft/s) 0.3048 = m/s (m/s) 3.2808 = ft/s
(in./s) 0.03937 = mm/s (mm/s) 25.4 = in./s
Acceleration (in./s2) 0.0254 = m/s2 (m/s2) 39.370 = in./s2
Area (ft2) 0.092903 = m2 (m2) 10.764 = ft2
Airflow rate (cfm) 0.000471948 = m3/s (m3/s) 2118.88 = cfm
Density (lbm/ft3) 16.01846 = kg/m3 (kg/m3) 0.06243 = lbm/ft3
Pressure (in. wg) 249.089 = Pa (Pa) 0.004014629 = in. wg
(in. Hg) 3386.39 = Pa (Pa) 0.0002953 = in. Hg
Temperature (°F – 32) / 1.8 = °C (1.8 X °C ) + 32 = °F

15
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16
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Annex B
(informative)

Relationships

Figure B-1 Relationships of vibration displacement, velocity and acceleration for sinusoidal
motion

Generally, there is no simple relationship between broad-band acceleration, velocity and displacement;
nor is there one between peak (pk), peak-to-peak (pk-pk), root-mean-square (rms) and average values
of vibration. However, where the vibration is totally or predominantly at a single frequency (e.g., due to
residual unbalance) or it is measured “Filter-In” then the following relationships exist, independent of the
system of the units involved:

Vrms = Vpk 2

Arms = Apk 2

The following relationships exist and are dependent upon the units of measure used:

For SI Units of Measure:

DISPLACEMENT Dpkpk mm

VELOCITY Vpk mm/s

ACCELERATION Apk g’s

FREQUENCY F Hz

Note: 1 g = 9.80665 m/s2

17
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

RELATIONSHIP EQUATIONS: EXAMPLE: Dpkpk = 0.10 mm at N = 1800 rpm

F = N 60 F = 1800 60 = 30 Hz

Vpk = πFD pkpk

Vpk = π (30 )(0.10 ) = 9.42 mm/s

2(π F ) Dpkpk (30 )2 (0.10) = 0.181 g' s

2
F 2 Dpkpk
Apk = = Apk =
(9.80665 )(1000 ) 496 .8 496.8

Vpk 9.42
D pkpk = Dpkpk = = 0.10 mm
πF π (30 )

(1000 )(9.80665 )Apk 496 .8 Apk (496.8)(0.181) = 0.10 mm

Dpkpk = = Dpkpk =
2 (π F )
2
F 2
(30 )2

(1000 )(9.80665 )Apk 1561Apk

Vpk =
(1561)(0.181) = 9.42 mm/s
Vpk = =
2πF F 30

2πFVpk FVpk (30 )(9.42) = 0.181 g' s

Apk = = Apk =
(1000 )(9.80665 ) 1561 1561

For “filter-in” readings, the following relationships exist which are dependent upon the units of measure
used:

For I-P Units of Measure:

DISPLACEMENT Dpkpk mils

VELOCITY Vpk in./s

ACCELERATION Apk g’s

FREQUENCY N rev/min (rpm)

Note: 1 mil = 0.001 in.

1g = 386.09 in./s2

18
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

RELATIONSHIP EQUATIONS EXAMPLE: Dpkpk = 2.4 mils at N = 1780 rpm

πNDpkpk NDpkpk
Vpk =
(1780)(2.4) = 0.224 in./s
Vpk = =
(60)(1000) (19,100) (19,100)

2(πN ) Dpkpk
2
Apk =
(60)2 (1000)(386.09)
( )
= 1.42 × 10 − 08 N 2Dpkpk ( )
Apk = 1.42 × 10 −08 (1780) (2.4 ) = 0.108 g' s
2

(60)(1000)Vpk (19,100)Vpk Dpkpk =

(19,100)(0.224) = 2.4 mils
Dpkpk = =
πN N (1780)

(60)(1000)(386.09)Apk Apk
Apk =
0.108
= 2.4 mils
Dpkpk =
2(πN )
2
=
(1.4210 )N
− 08 2
(1.4210 )(1780)
− 08 2

(60)(386.09)Apk (3687)Apk Vpk =

(3687)(0.108) = 0.224 in./s
Vpk = = (1780)
2πN N

2πFVpk NVpk Apk =

(1780)(0.224) = 0.108 g' s
Apk = = (3687)
(60)(386.09) (3687)

19
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Annex C
(informative)

Maximum permissible residual unbalance

Note: See section 5.2 for application of these values

Figure C.1 - Maximum permissible residual unbalance (SI)

20
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Note: See section 5.2 for application of these values

Figure C.2 - Maximum permissible residual unbalance (I-P)

21
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22
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Annex D
(informative)

Instruments and calibration

D.1 Instruments
Instruments and balancing machines used shall meet the requirements of the task and be within current
calibration. See ANSI S2.19-1989, Section 8. The calibration period for an instrument shall be that rec-
ommended by the instrument manufacturer. Instruments shall be in good condition and suitable for the
intended function for the complete duration of the test. A portable instrument shall not require a battery
change during a test.
Personnel operating instruments shall be familiar with the instruments and shall possess enough experi-
ence to detect a possible malfunction or degradation of instrument performance. When an instrument
requires corrective measures or calibration, it shall be removed from service until corrective action is
taken.

D.2 Calibration
All instruments shall have a calibration against a stated standard. The complexity of the calibration may
vary from a physical inspection to a complete calibration traceable to the National Institute of Standards
and Technology. Use of a calibrated weight to determine residual unbalance such as described in ANSI
S2.19-1989, Section 8.3 is one accepted method of calibrating instrumentation.

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24
 ANSI/AMCA 204-05

Annex E
(informative)

References

(1) ISO 254:1998 Belt Drives – pulleys – Quality, finish and balance, International Organzation
for Standardization, 1 Rue de Varembe, Case Oistake 56, Ch-1211, Geneve 20, SWITZER-
LAND.

(2) NEMA MG 1-1993 Part 7 Mechanical Vibration – Measurement, Evaluation and Limits,
National Electrical Manufacturers Association, 1300 North 17th Street, Rosslyn, VA 22209
U.S.A.

(3) IEC 34-14:1998 Rotating Electrical Machines (for general information on motors),
International Electrotechnical Commission, 1 Rue de Varembe, Case Oistake 56, Ch-1211,
Geneve 20, SWITZERLAND

(4) MPTA SPB 86, Sheaves and Belts, Mechanical Power Transmission Association, 932
Hungerford Drive #36, Rockville, MD 20850 U.S.A.

(5) ANSI S2.41-1985 (R1997) Mechanical Vibration of Large Rotating machines with Speed
Range from 10 to 200 rev/s – Measurement and Evaluation of Vibration Severity in situ (ISO
3945), American National Standards Institute, 11 West 42ND Street, New York, NY 10035
U.S.A.

(6) ANSI/AGMA 9000 – C90 (R1996) Flexible Couplings – Potential Unbalance Classifications,
American Gear Manufacturers Association, 1500 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 U.S.A.

(7) AMCA International’s Publication 99, Standards Handbook, Air Movement and Control
Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893
U.S.A.

(8) AMCA International’s Publication 200 Air Systems, Air Movement and Control Association
International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(9) AMCA International’s Publication 201 Fans and Systems, Air Movement and Control
Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893
U.S.A.

(10) AMCA International’s Publication 202 Troubleshooting, Air Movement and Control
Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893
U.S.A.

(11) AMCA International’s Publication 203 Field Performance Measurement of Fan Systems, Air
Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington
Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(12) ANSI / AMCA 210 Laboratory Methods of Testing Fans for Aerodynamic Performance Rating,
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington
Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(13) AMCA International’s Publication 211 Certified Ratings Program – Air Performance, Air
Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington
Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

25
ANSI/AMCA 204-05

(14) AMCA International’s Standard 300 Reverberant Room Method of Sound Testing of Fans, Air
Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington
Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(15) AMCA International’s Publication 311 Certified Ratings Program for Air Moving Devices, Air
Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington
Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(16) AMCA International’s Publication 801 Industrial Process / Power Generation Fans:
Specification Guidelines, Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30 West
University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(17) AMCA International’s Publication 802 Industrial Process / Power Generation Fans:
Establishing Performance Using Laboratory Models, Air Movement and Control Association
International, Inc., 30 West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

(18) AMCA International’s Standard 803 Industrial Process / Power Generation Fans: Site
Performance Test Standard, Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc., 30
West University Drive, Arlington Heights, IL 60004-1893 U.S.A.

26