Vibration control
Mechanical vibrations are an essential indicator of the operating condition of industrial plants. When it exceeds certain thresholds, it can lead to premature failure, accelerated equipment degradation, and even risks to plant and personnel safety.
Vibration control enables us to analyze these phenomena, identify their causes and implement appropriate corrective actions. SIM Engineering supports manufacturers in the vibration assessment of their equipment to guarantee reliability, performance and durability.
The challenges of industrial vibration control
Excessive vibration can affect all mechanical components: bearings, shafts, support structures and piping networks. They generate repeated mechanical stresses that can lead to cracking, misalignment, flange failure or material fatigue.
Beyond the material risks, vibrations can disrupt process operation, generate unplanned shutdowns and impact overall site safety. The aim of vibration engineering is to anticipate these phenomena and ensure that maintenance is preventive rather than corrective.
Vibration diagnosis and initial on-site assessments
SIM Engineering’s work begins with a thorough visual inspection of the plant and an initial assessment of the equipment’s vibration behavior. This phase enables us to identify sensitive areas, particular mechanical configurations and operating conditions likely to amplify vibrations.
This field analysis is an essential step in defining the measurement strategy, selecting the instrumentation points and adapting the acquisition protocols to the specific challenges of the site.
Vibration measurement and instrumentation
Vibration control campaigns are based on measurements using triaxial accelerometers, which simultaneously acquire vibrations in all three spatial directions. This approach guarantees complete characterization of equipment dynamic behavior.
Acquisitions are made in fine bands using FFT-type frequency analysis, enabling precise identification of vibratory components linked to rotation, resonance phenomena or specific mechanical excitations.
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Frequency analysis and signal interpretation
Vibration signal analysis is based on a detailed study of frequency spectra. This approach highlights dominant frequencies, identifies characteristic harmonics and distinguishes the mechanisms behind excessive vibrations.
The data collected is interpreted by SIM Engineering engineers to differentiate between phenomena linked to unbalance, misalignment, bearing faults, process pulsations or fluid-structure interactions.
Assessment according to standards
Measured vibration levels are analyzed in relation to the standards and recommendations applicable to the equipment concerned. SIM Engineering relies in particular on ISO 20816-8 standards for industrial machines, EFRC recommendations for reciprocating compressors, and SwRI or VDI 3842 methodologies for the vibration assessment of piping networks.
This normative analysis enables us to assess the severity of vibrations, identify non-compliant situations and quantify the associated mechanical risks.
Diagnosing the causes of excessive vibration
Vibration testing is not limited to measuring levels. It is part of a diagnostic approach aimed at identifying the precise origin of the disorders observed. Cross-analysis of measurements, operating conditions and mechanical configuration enables us to trace the root causes of vibrations.
This stage is decisive in proposing effective corrective actions and avoiding repetitive or inappropriate interventions.
Recommendations and corrective solutions
Following diagnosis, SIM Engineering makes technical recommendations adapted to operating constraints. Solutions may include dynamic balancing, realignment of machines, modification of supports, addition of anti-vibration devices or adaptation of operating conditions.
The aim is to sustainably reduce vibration levels, improve equipment reliability and optimize equipment life without compromising industrial performance.
Vibration control applications
Vibration control applies to a wide range of industrial equipment and environments. SIM Engineering works on reciprocating compressors and rotating machines, industrial piping networks, petrochemical, chemical and energy installations, as well as vibration-sensitive infrastructures.
Services cover both equipment in the commissioning phase and installations in operation requiring periodic vibration monitoring.
An engineering approach to reliability
Vibration monitoring is an essential tool for controlling mechanical risks and optimizing industrial maintenance. By combining field expertise, precision instrumentation and rigorous normative analysis, SIM Engineering supports its customers in securing their installations.
This approach prevents failures, reduces operating costs and makes vibration management part of a sustainable approach to industrial performance.
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