FUNDAMENTALS OF ROTATING MACHINERY

Most pieces of rotating machinery have natural oscillation rates. If external forces cause machinery

to deviate from its natural oscillation rate, an effect called resonance could occur and further

damage the equipment. Various rotating machinery vibration analysis instruments can assisst in

early detection of damaging resonance.

ROTOR SYSTEM

The rotor system includes the shaft, gears and a drive mechanism.

Rotating machinery is characterised by at least one central rotor. A rotor is a cylindrical shaft that

transfers electrical or chemical energy into mechanical energy. The rotor system also contains

bearings, gears and other components that boost machine efficiency. Dynamic charateristics of the

rotor system include the geometry of the machinery, maximum and required loads, rotating speed

and lubrication requirements. The geometry can be in the same plane or have various gears to

change direction and speed of the rotation. This geometry combined with the drive mechanisms

determines the maximum rotating speeds. Rotating machinery generates heat and without proper

lubrication, components could fail.