Early detection of emerging faults is a critical requirement for safeguarding machines against functional failures. Simultaneously, it provides operators with ample lead time to plan repairs optimally. This leads to improved inventory and logistics management. As the time required to identify faults decreases, prompt corrective actions can be taken, resulting in a substantial reduction in unscheduled downtime and repair costs.

The above diagram provides a clear illustration. Warnings from the engine manufacturer’s Electronic Control Module (ECM) occur just in time to prevent catastrophic failures where components within the engine or machine have already failed, necessitating expensive corrective measures. While certain methods, like fluid analysis and inspections using ultrasound or borescopes, can detect failures earlier than ECMs, they often fall short of expectations and cannot reliably transition from planned maintenance scheduling (PMS) to a condition-based maintenance schedule (CBM).

Torsional vibrations offer us the advantage of future planning, data exploration, and advanced analytics, which can significantly reduce operating costs. It is the most advanced fault detection system that goes beyond mere condition monitoring, providing operators with the data needed to maintain their machines optimally.