CASE STUDY Early Vibration Alerts Prevent Motor Failure at Glass Manufacturing Facility
At automotive and architectural glass manufacturing plants, the tempering screen washer motor ensures consistent cleaning processes for high-quality glass products. Waites' sensors detected rapidly rising vibration levels on a south motor rear bearing. Without swift action, the facility faced a motor failure, potentially leading to halted production lines, delayed shipments, and significant operational losses.
Waites' analysts observed a notable increase in peak-to-peak vibration levels. Vibration analysis revealed bearing defects, likely due to internal wear or lubrication loss. Analysts recommended immediate inspection of the bearings and evaluation of the motor condition to prevent further escalation and potential equipment failure.
Significant vibration spikes on the X-axis (initially 7.35 g and later exceeding 20 g) indicated advanced bearing wear and possible lubrication loss, requiring urgent maintenance.
Post-maintenance vibration data demonstrated a rapid decrease to safe operational levels, verifying the effectiveness of motor replacement in resolving bearing failure.
Responding swiftly, the maintenance team replaced the damaged bearing, which had internally failed. They also lubricated the bearing, thoroughly inspected clearances, cleaned the surrounding conveyor components, and repaired forming section oilers. Post-maintenance sensor data showed temperature and vibration levels returned to normal, confirming the effectiveness of the intervention.