I sell a pump driven by an electric motor and the customer tells me a particular unit (and only this one unit out of hundreds) caused too much vibration when he mounted it in his application. There is no vibration spec per se. The unit tests out normal on my end, but I’d like to do a quantitative measurement of the vibration of this unit vs. others.

Is there a site someone can direct me to, or personal knowledge someone might share, that would give me some insight into how to do this, what to look for, what methods and equipment are most appropriate, any applicable MIL or other standards that might apply, etc. ?

Thanks!

Mike,
Have you contacted the pump manufacturer to explain the situation at ask for their input?

Phil

I seem to remember that sound and vibration measurement go hand in hand...
You should be able to rent some equipment rather than buy it.

In fact I found this...
http://www.quest-technologies.com/qcarepro/index.htm

as far as specifications, I can't really help.

Just some thoughts here since the motor functioned normally as you tested it -
Have you seen the application in person? Was there a mounting problem? Did the put the motor on isolation pads?

We are the manufacturer. We make and sell it -- guess I wasn't too clear on that.

I would recommend sending it to a lab for vibration analysis. I don't feel you will be able to rent equipment that will give you any really usable information.

I wouldn't know where to direct you any more, and I can't remember a specific Mil-Std off hand, but years ago we sent items out to laboratories like Wyle or Dayton Brown for vibration analysis. You might be able to rent equipment to do it yourself, but vibration analysis isn't something I recommend to a novice.

On the other hand, it's just attaching one or more accelerometers to the DUT (device under test) and running the device. The important thing is writing a test plan to address aspects such as what conditions (such as different speeds, axes, etc.).

Rockwell Automation Entek based in Milford, OH can provide contract vibration analysis services.

Vibration analysis requires special measurement equipment, software and training to interpret results. Entek can provide all three if you need them. I have used them previously, and can vouch for them.

Also try STI out of Rochester NY. We had used them to set up our vibration analysis equipment. Their modal shop support was excellent. They do on-site work or you could send your motor to their lab.

http://www.sti-tech.com/sti/home.php

You might also contact Intertek, UL, and CSA.....all three have laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 and should be able to help.

Hershal