SPM A2010 User manual

Instruction Manual
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
© Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB • Box 4 • S-645 21 Strängnäs • Sweden
Tel [phone] • Fax [phone] • [email protected] • www.spminstrument.se

1
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Instruction Manual
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010
Part 1 General Description
A survey of instrument functions and accessories. Short description of
the measuring techniques used.
Part 2 Operating Instructions
Instructions for shock pulse, vibration, and speed measurements with the
A2010. Changing batteries. Instrument care.
Part 3 Measuring Routines and Evaluation, SPM
Selection of SPM measuring points. Selection of transducer type. Meas-
uring routes and intervals. Recording shock pulse readings. Interpreta-
tion of shock pulse readings. Disturbance. Follow-up of bearings in bad
condition. Evaluation flow chart.
Part 4 Measuring Routines and Evaluation, VIB
Selection of machine class. Selection of VIB measuring points. Measuring
directions. Recording vibration readings. Interpretation of vibration read-
ings. Evaluation flow chart. Balancing with A2010.
Part 5 Data and Forms
Ordering numbers. Technical data. Follow-up forms.

2
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se

3
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Part 1
General Description
Contents
Machine condition monitoring ........................................................... 4
Instrument keys and functions ........................................................... 5
Shock pulse transducers and accessories .......................................... 6
Measurement of machine vibration ................................................... 7
Tachometer functions ......................................................................... 7
Two different measuring methods ..................................................... 8
Input data for the A2010 .................................................................... 9
LR and HR measurements .................................................................. 9
Error codes ......................................................................................... 9
Evaluated shock pulse readings ....................................................... 10
CODES for general condition........................................................... 10
Lubrication condition........................................................................ 11
The COND Number.......................................................................... 12
Relationship between output data................................................... 12
Bearing damage ............................................................................... 13
The COMP number........................................................................... 13
Taking shock pulse readings ............................................................ 14
The earphone mode ......................................................................... 14
Systematic bearing monitoring ........................................................ 15
SPM software.................................................................................... 15
Vibration severity measurements..................................................... 16
Systematic vibration monitoring ...................................................... 17

4
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
The condition monitoring functions of the A2010 are
based on two widely used measuring techniques:
•SPM’s patented Shock Pulse Method for bearing
monitoring
•broad band vibration velocity measurement
according to ISO 2372.
The A2010 requires few input data and allows an
instant interpretation of machine condition by supply-
ing:
•a direct indication of machine vibration and
bearing condition in terms of good - reduced -
bad
•a digital display of lubrication condition data
(LUB No.) and damage severity readings
(COND No.) for bearings
•vibration severity readings in mm/s RMS
•contact and non-contact measurement of rpm
and peripheral speed.
Shock Pulse Analyser A2010 is the direct successor to
SPM’s Bearing Analyzer BEA-52. It’s data can be fed
into SPM’s computer programs for bearing analysis.
As a vibration meter and tachometer, the A2010 is
comparable with SPM's two portable instruments VIB-
10 and TAC-10.
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010 combines the functions
of a shock pulse meter, a vibration meter, and a
tachometer. It is used to check the operating condi-
tion of rotating machines, in order to detect mechani-
cal faults and supply data for effective preventive
maintenance.
With the A2010, maintenance personnel can monitor
all significant aspects of mechanical machine condi-
tion:
•the mechanical condition of rolling bearings
(bearing damage development)
•the lubrication condition of rolling bearings
(lubricant film in the rolling interface)
•general machine condition (the effect of structural
looseness, misalignment and out-of-balance on
machine vibration).
The purpose of systematic condition monitoring is:
•to avoid unnecessary overhauls of machines in
good working order
•to avoid routine replacements of serviceable
bearings
•to improve the life expectancy of rolling bearings
by optimizing their lubrication
•to detect trouble spots in time for planned
repairs and replacements, avoiding both
breakdowns and unnecessary production stops.
Machine Condition Monitoring
Bearing condition
Machine vibration
Rotational speed
Fig. 1

5
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
BEARING TEST
CODE A
LUB 2
COND 28
Acc 3/3
LR 24
HR 20
M
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010
SPM TAC / ΩVIB
SPM
VIB
SET
PEAK
The A2010 has three inputs, each with a different
connector type, and specialized circuits for all three
measuring functions. Only five control keys are needed
to operate the instrument. Two unmarked keys pro-
vide master reset (12) and a display of the program
version number (13).
1 LCD Display
On four lines, the display shows menus, selected mea-
suring mode, input data, and measuring results.
2 Condition Scale
An arrow pointing at the green, yellow, or red field of
the condition scale provides an instant evaluation of
the measured shock pulse or vibration level:
green = good condition
yellow = reduced condition
red = bad condition.
3 Peak Indicator
In the earphone mode, a blinking light shows the
existence of shock pulse peaks above the displayed
shock level.
4 Measuring Key
The Mkey starts the measurement. For continuous
vibration measurement, the key is held down.
5 Select Key
The SPM/VIB key switches from shock pulse to vibra-
tion measurement and back.
6 Set Key
The SET key initiates the setting of input data and
earphone volume.
7/8 Arrow Keys
The arrow keys are used to increase (7) or decrease
(8) the values of input data and to change measuring
thresholds in the earphone mode.
9 Input for Shock Pulse Transducer
A threaded connector receiving the coaxial cable from
a hand-held probe, a transducer with quick connec-
tor, or a measuring terminal.
7
3
5
6
4
8
91011
1
2
Instrument Keys and Functions
10 Input for Earphone, Tachometer
Connecting the earphone or the tachometer probe
will switch the A2010 to the respective measuring
mode.
11 Input for Vibration Transducer
A bayonet connector receiving the coaxial cable from
the vibration transducer.
Fig. 2

6
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Shock Pulse Transducers and Accessories
A basic requirement for condition monitoring is ac-
cess to suitable measuring points. Over the last 20
years, SPM has developed a large range of accesso-
ries and installation components which enable the
customer to reach bearings in almost any application.
The A2010 offers three alternative ways of measuring
shock pulses:
•a hand-held probe is pressed against the bearing
housing.
•an adapter is permanently installed on the
bearing housing. Readings are taken by attaching
a transducer with quick connector to the adapter.
•a shock pulse transducer is permanently installed
on the bearing housing and via coaxial cable
connected to a measuring terminal. Readings are
taken by connecting the A2010 to the terminal.
The hand-held probe is used for spot checks, for
locating the best measuring points for systematic moni-
toring, and for tracing other shock pulse sources on
the machine, for example cavitation or rubbing and
scraping machine parts.
For systematic shock pulse monitoring on a larger
number of measuring points, SPM recommends the
use of shock pulse adapters. Adapters are solid steel
bolts, installed in threaded, countersunk mounting
holes. The transducer is connected with a quick twist,
leaving the operators hands free for the instrument.
Adapters make clearly defined measuring points and
permit more accurate readings with less spread.
An alternative is the SPM transducer TRA-20 which
snaps on to a measuring stud. Studs are installed in
threded holes. Studs as well as adapters are available
in glue-on versions for thin-walled bearing houses.
Permanently installed transducers (fig. 5) are primarily
used for bearings which cannot be reached in any
other way during normal machine operation. Trans-
ducer matching units allow cable lengths of up to 100
m between bearing and measuring terminal.
Fig. 3
Adapter
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Transducer

7
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Machine vibration is measured with a small piezo-
electric accelerometer. The transducer is normally at-
tached with a magnetic base to a bearing housing or
some other suitable measuring point.
The transducer can be pressed by hand against non-
magnetic material, or it can be fitted with a 100 mm
long probe tip. Permanent mounting is also possible.
Vibration transducers are sensitive only along their
main axis. This allows accurate readings of radial and
axial machine vibration in any direction. Vibration read-
ings taken in three directions (vertical and horizontal
in the radial plane, plus an axial reading) are used to
trace the underlying causes of excessive vibration,
such as out-of-balance, structural looseness, or axial
play.
Tachometer Functions
Used for non-contact measurements, the tachometer
probe directs a light beam against a piece of reflect-
ing foil attached to the shaft, wheel, or belt. The
measuring circuit counts the reflected light pulses.
Measuring distance is up to 0.6 meter. The maximum
range for optical readings is 19 999 rpm.
A contact adapter can be placed over the lens. For
rpm measurement, it is fitted with rubber tipped con-
tact center which is held firmly against the center of a
shaft.
Peripheral speed is measured with a contact wheel,
held against a belt or against the rim of a wheel or a
shaft.
Depending on the type of contact wheel used, pe-
ripheral speed is displayed in units of 0.10 m/min.
(TAD-12), 0.1 yards/min. (TAD-13),or 2 feet/min. (TAD-
17). The maximum range of the display is 20 000 units.
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Measurement of Machine Vibration

8
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010 is based on two quite
different methods for condition monitoring:
•bearing condition monitoring according to the
shock pulse method (SPM)
•vibration severity measurement according to ISO
recommendation 2372.
Each method is tailored to supply the most accurate
and useful information on the aspect of machine con-
dition it is used to monitor.
The difference between the two methods is best illus-
trated by showing what happens when a falling metal
ball strikes a metal bar.
At the moment of impact, the colliding molecules will
cause a pressure wave to spread through both bodies
(fig. 8A). The magnitude of this wave is a function of
the speed of the colliding bodies. It is independent of
their masses and shapes. The SPM method analyses
the first stage event, the ”shock pulse”travelling
through the material of the bar.
The impact will then cause the bar to vibrate (fig. 8B).
This vibration is a function of the speed, mass, and
shape of the bodies. Vibration measurement is used
to measure the movement of the bar.
When hit by a shock wave, a shock pulse transducer
responds at its own resonance frequency of 32 kHz. It
magnifies the high frequency shock signal, while all
machine vibration is filtered out.
The output of the shock pulse transducer is a rapid
sequence of electric pulses, proportional to the amp-
litudes of the shock waves. Shock pulses are measu-
red on a decibel scale (dBsv = decibel shock value).
For a general assessment of machine condition, ISO
recommends wide frequency band measurements of
vibration velocity, over the range 10 to 1000 Hz. The
transducer output is converted into a reading of vi-
bration severity, defined as the root mean square
(RMS) value of the vibration velocity, measured in
mm/s.
Wide frequency band measurement registers the com-
bined vibration of the different machine parts. The
velocity reading is directly related to the energy level
of machine vibration, and thus a good indicator of the
destructive forces acting on the machine.
Two Different Measuring Methods
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
Shock pulse
measurement
Vibration
measurement
Fig. 10

9
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Evaluating the lubrication condition of bearings requi-
res a much greater accuracy than the measurement of
bearing damage. Surface damage on rolling elements
and raceways leads to large, easily detected changes
in a bearing’s shock signal, while the changes due to
variations of the oil film thickness in undamaged bear-
ings are relatively small.
Both rolling velocity and bearing geometry affect a
bearing's shock pulse pattern. The A2010 contains
evaluation rules for eight basic bearing types, ranging
from single row deep groove ball bearings to thrust
roller bearings.
Bearing type is programmed as the SPM TYPE No., a
single digit (1 - 8). Rolling velocity is input as the bear-
ing’s NORM No., a number between 10 and 58. Given
the bearing’s mean diameter Dm (or the last three
digits of its ISO number) and its rpm, the A2010 will
calculate and display the NORM number.
The A2010 also accepts a compensation number
(COMP) which can be used to calibrate the readings
from an inferior measuring point.
LR and HR Measurements
The A2010 measures shock pulse magnitude on a
decibel scale, in dBSV (decibel shock value). It takes a
sample count of the shock pulses occurring over a
period of time and displays:
•LR (Low Rate of occurrence), the value for the
relatively small number of strong shock pulses
•HR (High Rate of occurrence), the value for the
large number of weak shock pulses in the pattern.
The difference between LR and HR is called the delta
value. Bearing condition is evaluated on the basis of
the measured values, LR and HR, and the basic bear-
ing data input prior to the measurement.
Error Codes
Given the NORM and TYPE number of the bearing,
the A2010 will first decide whether the measured
shock pulse pattern is within the range of possible
signals from this bearing. If not, the instrument will
display an error code, for instance ”E2 - Disturbance”,
”E3 - Signal too low”, or ”E5 - NORM No. too low".
Input Data for the A2010
Fig. 11
Fig. 12
n= rpm
LR Measured value for strong shock pulses
with low occurrence rate
HR Measured value for weak shock pulses
with high occurrence rate
dBSV Unit for shock pulse measurement
(decibel shock value)
22314
Spherical roller bearing
SPM TYPE No. 7
6410
Deep groove ball bearing
SPM TYPE No. 1

10
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Fig. 13
CODE Letters A to D, general description of
bearing condition
LUB Degree of lubrication in the rolling
interface. Displayed with CODE A, B
COND Degree of damage to bearing surfaces.
Displayed with CODE B, C, D
When it registers a valid bearing signal, the A2010 will
evaluate the reading and display:
•a CODE describing general bearing condition,
consisting of the letter A, B, C, or D.
•a LUB number describing lubrication condition in
the rolling interface between load carrying rolling
elements and raceway.
•a COND number describing the mechanical state
of the load carrying bearing surfaces.
The LUB No. is shown together with CODE A and B.
The COND No. is shown together with CODE B, C,
and D.
CODES for General Condition
CODE A means that the bearing is in good condition.
There is no detectable damage to the surfaces of the
load carrying parts, and no extreme lack of lubricant
in the rolling interface. Figure 14A shows a typical
shock pulse pattern from a good bearing: a low shock
level and a normal delta value.
CODE B indicates a dry running condition, causing an
high HR value and a low delta value (figure 14B). The
lubricant is not reaching the rolling interface, which
can have several causes, e.g. lack of lubricant supply
to the bearing, low temperature in a grease lubri-
cated bearing, or a heavy overload due to misalign-
ment, tight fit, deformed housing, etc.
CODE C is displayed when the instrument detects an
increased shock pulse level with a large delta value
(figure 14C). This points to beginning surface dam-
age.
CODE D is displayed when the A2010 recognizes a
signal that is typical for bearing damage: a high shock
level with a large delta value (figure 14D). A contami-
nation of the lubricant by hard particles causes a
similar pattern.
The message of the codes is supported by an arrow
pointing at the green - yellow - red scale beside the
display:
green - good condition (CODE A)
yellow - reduced condition (CODE B, C)
red - bad condition (CODE D).
Evaluated Shock Pulse Readings
BEARING TEST
CODE B Acc 3/3
LUB 0 LR 24
COND 28 HR 22
CODE A
Good condition
CODE B
Dry running
CODE C
Reduced condition
CODE D
Bearing damage
Fig. 14

11
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
The most important influence on the service life of a
bearing is its lubrication, or, to be precise, the lubri-
cant film between the load carrying rolling elements
and the raceway. By preventing or inhibiting metallic
contact between the loaded bearing parts, the lubri-
cant film reduces the local peak stress in the rolling
interface. The greater the lubricant film thickness, the
more even the load distribution in the contact area,
and the better the fatigue life of the bearing.
Irregularities in the bearing surfaces will always cause
pressure variations in the contact area, and thus shock
pulses, even when metallic contact is prevented by a
separating lubricant film (figure 15A). A thinner film
will result in an increase of the bearing's HR value
(figure 15B).
By measuring the variations in the shock pulse pat-
terns of undamaged bearings, the A2010 can evalua-
te the effect of the lubricant film, and display a LUB
No. which is directly proportional to film thickness.
LUB No. for Ball and Roller Bearings
The LUB No. is displayed together with CODE A and
B. LUB No. 0 means dry running condition. The inter-
pretation of LUB Nos. between 1 and 4 depends on
the bearing type. For ball bearings, LUB Nos. greater
than 2 mean full lubrication (a load carrying oil film).
For roller bearings, a LUB No. greater than 4 indicates
full lubrication.
The term boundary lubrication implies that part of the
load is carried by metal to metal contact.
Factors Influencing Lubrication
The amount of lubricant in or supplied to the bearing
is only one of the many factors that determine lubri-
cant film thickness. Lubricant type and the bearing's
rpm are of great importance, but also the geometry
of bearing parts and housing, as well as the load put
on the bearing by alignment and fitting.
Lubrication Condition
Rolling
interface
A
B
Fig. 15
LUB No. Ball bearings Roller bearings
0 Dry running Dry running
1 to 2 Boundary Boundary
lubrication lubrication
3 to 4 Full lubrication
> 4 Full lubrication
Fig. 16 LUB No. for ball and roller bearings

12
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Fig. 17
Field A = Good condition
Field B = Condition reduced by
poor lubrication
Field C = Condition reduced by
poor surfaces
Field D = Damage
Fig. 18
The COND No. (condition number) is displayed with
CODE B, C, and D, i.e. for all bearings with reduced
or bad condition. It indicates the degree of surface
deterioration or damage in the rolling interface.
Large (visible) surface damage typically leads to a
very marked increase in the bearing's LR readings and
a high delta value (figure 17). Thus, it is easily de-
tected and will give Code D and high COND num-
bers.
When a COND number is displayed, the bearing should
be watched very carefully. Once damage has started,
it cannot be reversed. Temporary improvements of
the COND No. only mean that the edges of fresh
spallings or imprints have been rounded off. Soon,
there will be new spallings.
The time left to plan a bearing replacement depends
on the trend of the COND No. As a rule, COND Nos.
should be interpreted as follows:
COND No. < 30 Minor damage
COND No. 30 to 40 Increasing damage
COND No. > 40 Severe damage
Relationship Between Output Data
Figure 18 shows the relationship between CODE,
COND, LUB and the measured raw data, HR and LR.
HR is plotted horizontally. The delta value (= LR –HR)
is plotted along the vertical outer scale.
The fields marked A, B, C, D correspond to the condi-
tion codes. Together, they form the area in which the
A2010 expects to find the HR and delta values for a
given bearing. Size and shape of this area varies ac-
cording to bearing type and speed. Readings falling
outside of the area produce error codes.
The black circle marks a shock pulse reading. Here HR
is 12 (horizontal scale) and LR is 16, giving a delta
value of 4 (vertical scale).
This puts the bearing into field A(good condition),
and gives it LUB No. of 3(inner scale, horizontal). The
COND No. (inner scale, vertical) is below 20 and not
displayed.
The COND Number

13
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Surface Damage in Rolling Bearings
Figures 18 and 19 illustrate two of the many possible
ways in which a bearing can go from good to bad
condition.
Developing surface damage causes a marked increase
of the bearing's delta value (HR remains low while LR
increases). This will cause the condition code to change
from A to C to D, and produce rising COND Nos.
(fig.19).
In a bearing wearing out through metal fatigue, this
development normally takes a long time. Note, how-
ever, that bearings can sustain sudden damage, e.g.
through electric current, corrosion and vibration dur-
ing idle periods, etc.
Damage Through Bad Lubrication
Poor lubrication can rapidly lead to bearing damage.
The bearing in fig. 20 shows decreasing LUB num-
bers. The condition code changes from A to B (=dry
running), then to D as damage develops and increa-
ses.
Note that the COND No. scale follows the field
boundaries. Thus, the COND No. increases as the
bearing moves through field B towards D.
The COMP Number
SPM's evaluation rules presuppose that the signal
path between bearing and transducer is short, straight
and unbroken, and that the transducer is placed in the
load zone and pointed straight at the bearing.
In practice, correct measuring points cannot always
be reached. The result can be an abnormally low
shock pulse signal, producing the error code E3 ("Sig-
nal too low"). In such cases, the compensation num-
ber (COMP No.) can be used to compensate for loss
of signal strength. If programmed as part of the input
data, it will be added to the measured and displayed
LR/HR readings before the reading is evaluated and
turned into condition codes.
SPM supplies the computer program LUBMASTER
PRO-30 which helps to calculate COMP Nos. on the
basis of bearing type, rpm, operating temperature,
lubricant used, etc (see even page 25). Fig. 21
Fig. 20
Fig. 19

14
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Taking Shock Pulse Readings
Pressing any key will start the A2010 in the last used
measuring mode. The SPM/VIB key changes the mode
from vibration to shock pulse monitoring.
The SET key allows to input or change NORM and
TYPE number, to set a COMP number and the number
of measuring cycles to be accumulated. Pressing the
M key will switch from the SET to the measuring
mode.
The user then connects the transducer to the measur-
ing point and presses the M key once. While the
instrument goes through the programmed number of
measuring cycles, the peak indicator blinks and the
bearing data are on the screen. The figure behind Acc
shows the number of completed measuring cycles.
The transducer type used is displayed in the bottom
right hand corner of the screen (fig. 22).
After completing the measurement, the A2010 dis-
plays the bearing’s shock values (LR and HR) together
with CODE, LUB, and COND. An arrow points at the
condition scale, green field for CODE A, yellow for B
and C, red for D.
The Earphone Mode
The earphone mode is a help function for a further
evaluation of shock pulse readings indicating bad bear-
ing condition. It allows the user to listen to the rhythm
of the shock pulses and to determine their probable
origin and cause.
The transducer has to be connected to the measuring
point while the earphones are used. The arrow keys
control the measuring threshold: ”UP”moves it up
the dBSV scale, ”DOWN”lowers the threshold. The
peak indicator is active and blinks if there are shock
pulses above the set level.
A machine can contain shock pulse sources other than
the bearings. Mostly, these can be easily identified by
their characteristic sound pattern. Single shock pulses
are heard as single sound pulses, while the shock
pulses at the HR level are heard as a continuous tone.
Figure 23 shows two typical patterns:
A A damaged bearing - strong, irregular, single
peaks well above the HR level
B Scraping or rubbing machine parts - a shower of
peaks at regular intervals. Fig. 23
A
B
MEASURING . .
NORM 32 Acc 0 / 3
TYPE 1
COMP 0 TRA
Fig. 22

15
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Systematic Bearing Monitoring
Bearing and vibration monitoring should be part of
the normal maintenance routines. Regular measure-
ments on all the bearings in a machine give a much
clearer picture of bearing condition than sporadic
spot checks.
SPM supplies follow-up forms where bearing data,
measuring date and measuring results are recorded,
and where the measured values can be plotted as a
graph.
The recommended measuring interval for good bear-
ings is approximately two to three months. Shorter
intervals (or permanently installed monitors) are used
for more critical equipment. Damaged bearings should
be closely watched until they can be replaced.
SPM Software
SPM software is an effective means to reduce the
administrative work connected with large scale condi-
tion monitoring. It supplies data entry forms, graphic
displays of measurements, and alarm lists for bea-
rings in bad condition.
Work schedules for any desired time span can be
printed, including measuring point numbers, instru-
ment settings, last readings and space to enter cur-
rent results.
The A2010 has the same input and output data as the
portable shock pulse analyzers BEA-52 and BAS-10,
and the computerized CMS System for continuous
monitoring.
The user can store bearing data, measuring schedules
and readings in any of the computer programs provi-
ded by SPM for these bearing monitoring systems.
Fig. 24
Fig. 25
4 E fan 2315-6
motor
fan

16
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Excessive vibration has basically three causes: some-
thing is loose, misaligned, or out of balance. An expe-
rienced maintenance crew will normally find the cause
without a complex analysis, if it is notified that the
general vibration level is too high.
The acceptable vibration level depends on the size,
design, and function of the machine, as well as on the
stiffness of its foundation. ISO recommendation 2372
(likewise BS 4675 and VDI 2056) define vibration clas-
ses for various types of machines. The table in figure
26 shows the most common of the six classes and
their limit values.
In order to assess machine condition on the basis of
vibration severity measurements, one has to define
the normal vibration level of the machine, either ac-
cording to its vibration classing, the manufacturer’s
recommendations, or on the basis of measurements
when the machine is in good condition.
As an example, a 100 kW ventilation fan on a concrete
base would belong to class III. If the number 3 is input
prior to measurement, the A2010 will compare the
measuring result with the limit values for this class. An
arrow pointing at the condition scale will indicate
machine condition in terms of good - reduced - bad. If
no class number is input, the vibration severity value
will be shown without further evaluation.
Vibration measuring points are usually selected on
the bearing housings. The vibration transducer is sen-
sitive only along its main axis, in the direction it is
pointed.
This allows a limited analysis of the causes for excess-
ive vibration. Radial vibration, measured in the verti-
cal direction, gives information about structural weak-
ness, whereas a horizontal reading is most repre-
sentative of balance conditions. Axial vibration, along
the line of the shaft, is normally caused by faulty
alignment, badly assembled couplings or bent shafts.
Thus, readings from several measuring points in three
directions can usually give a good indication of the
nature and location of the maintenance problem.
Vibration Severity Measurement
Fig. 27
Fig. 26
Limits Class Class Class Class
VIBRAMETER
ISO 2372
CLASS 3 2.5
mm /s

17
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Fig. 28
Systematic vibration measurement includes recording
and trending, to be able to follow the gradual change
of machine vibration over longer periods of time.
The purpose is to obtain data for condition based
maintenance. Condition based maintenance, as op-
posed to periodic overhauls, is only carried out when
machine condition measurements show that repairs
are needed. This requires measurements at regular
intervals, and the recording and evaluation of the
results.
There are no general rules about how often vibration
should be measured. The intervals between readings -
a day, a week, perhaps a whole month - depends
wholly on the individual machine, its importance for
the plant, and on the rate of change in its vibration
level.
Normal
Report change+ 1 step
Maintenance
activities
+ 2 steps
+ 3 steps
+ 4 steps
Report large increase
Report dangerous increase
Routine
maintenance
(lubrication, etc.)
Inspection,
minor repairs
Plan major
overhaul
(Shutdown)
Effect repairs
Breakdown
Vibration
measurements
To be able to plan ahead and work efficiently, a main-
tenance department needs easily interpreted informa-
tion on all significant changes in machine condition.
Reporting changes in ”steps”, rather than giving the
actual vibration severity figures, is the simplest way of
indicating the extent and urgency of a maintenance
problem.
A one step change (1.6 times increase) is generally
regarded as significant and should be reported. It is a
first warning of deteriorating condition. At this stage,
tightening a few bolts or adjusting a belt may be
sufficient to get rid of the excess vibration. A two
step increase (= one condition zone) should always be
investigated. Three steps up is a fourfold increase, an
alarming change demanding immediate action.
Systematic Vibration Monitoring

18
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se

19
Technical data are subject to change without notice.
ISO 9001 certified. © Copyright SPM 1996-9. 71411.B
SPM Instrument AB •Box 4 •S-645 21 Strängnäs •Sweden
Tel [phone] •Fax [phone] •[email protected] •www.spminstrument.se
Part 2
Operating Instructions for
Shock Pulse Analyzer A2010
Contents
General Functions
Instrument on/off ............................................................................. 20
Transducers and measuring modes ................................................. 20
Memory............................................................................................. 20
Shock Pulse Measurement
Setting bearing data......................................................................... 21
Obtaining the basic bearing data .................................................... 22
TYPE Number table .......................................................................... 23
Taking shock pulse readings ............................................................ 24
Measuring point calibration ............................................................. 25
Error codes ....................................................................................... 26
The earphone.................................................................................... 27
Shock pulse transducers ................................................................... 28
Vibration Severity Measurement
Vibration reading .............................................................................. 29
Vibration transducer ......................................................................... 29
Speed Measurement
Optical measurement of rotational speed ....................................... 30
Contact measurement of speed....................................................... 31
Changing DIP Switch Settings
Display language .............................................................................. 32
Millimetre or inch.............................................................................. 32
Instrument Maintenance
Changing batteries ........................................................................... 33
Master reset ..................................................................................... 33
Changing the probe tip sleeve......................................................... 33