Citation:
N Jamaludin, D Mba, R H Bannister. Monitoring the lubricant condition in a low-
speed rolling element bearing using high frequency stress waves. Proceedings of
the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part E: Journal of Process Mechanical
Engineering. Vol 216, No. 2, 2002, pp 73-88.
Abstract:
This paper presents the results of an investigation into the development of a
reliable, nonintrusive and effective technique capable of accessing the
lubrication condition within a low-speed rotating bearing. This unique
monitoring system is known as pulse injection technique (PIT) and involves
transmitting a Dirac pulse through a bearing via a stress waves (SW) sensor.
Analysis of measured stress wave signatures differentiated between a properly
and poorly lubricated bearing. This method was found to be effective as stress
wave propagation is sensitive to the transmission path, which in turn is
affected significantly by the type and amount of grease present in the vicinity
of the working elements of a bearing. The ability of this technique to monitor
the lubrication condition within a bearing whilst in operation could be utilised
to determine the appropriate time for grease replenishment or addition.
