In this second part of a white paper series (read Part 1 here) that explores vibration sensing in the context of machine health monitoring, learn about accelerometers, their dynamic nature, a few key specifications, and an overview of how they work. Then, a comparison of the two major accelerometer sensing technologies, piezoelectric & MEMS, and the most important factors to consider when selecting a sensing technology is provided.
Accelerometer vibration sensors are the first link in the measurement chain of a vibration condition monitoring system. A predictive maintenance program based on vibration will not meet expectations if an accelerometer is incorrectly specified or installed. The plant operator should have some understanding of the machine being instrumented and what types of faults need to be detected. It is these fault-detection requirements that should drive the accelerometer specifications. Understanding accelerometers and their characteristics are critical to successfully implementing a predictive maintenance program.
