Mechanical Vibration and Friction
Mechanical Vibration is the oscillatory movement of a machine or other mechanical system. Vibration is the main movement of machines and can be caused by a variety of sources, such as engines, electrical motors, gears, belt drives, or the air flow past moving parts. Many sources of vibration are normal, such as the noise from the engine; others may call for prompt repair or maintenance.
The vibration that is generated by machines can cause a variety of problems. The most basic of these are noise, wear, and fatigue. Noise generated by vibration can be annoying if not addressed as soon as possible. Wear can also be caused by vibration, specifically if two machines or components are in contact with each other. This can result in premature failure. Lastly, fatigue can be induced by repeated vibrations over time on the same machine, leading to a decrease in performance and failure of components, often without the operator being aware of the situation.
The only way to properly address vibration is to understand the root cause. This can be done with vibration measurements and analysis, allowing the source of vibration to be properly identified and addressed. This can be achieved with vibration sensors, accelerometers, and vibration analysis software.
Friction is another source of mechanical movement that most machines must contend with. More accurately defined as an opposing force to motion, friction is generated in a variety of sources and can greatly affect the performance of a machine.
Friction is generated from the contact of two moving parts during operation, and this can be either between two metal surfaces or even on components that contain lubricants. It is important to understand that friction is not always a bad thing, as it helps to increase the efficiency of machines. If a machine is subject to too much friction, however, it can cause excessive wear, heat, and ultimately decreased performance and possibly failure of the parts. Common sources of friction include bearings, gears, belts, clutches, and brakes.
Friction can be addressed by proper machine design and proper lubrication of moving parts. Proper lubrication should match the type of friction generated and the materials that the components are made of, to ensure that the lubricant does not cause additional damage. It is also important to properly select bearings, gears, and belts, to ensure that they can handle the load and have a long life. As with vibration, one should also be sure to measure the friction generated by a machine in order to identify any problems and address them in a timely manner.
In conclusion, vibration and friction are both sources of mechanical movement that can have profound effects on the performance of a machine. These effects can be minimized or eliminated with proper understanding, designing, and maintenance. It is important to measure the vibration and friction of a machine periodically, to identify any issues and address them as soon as possible.
