Learning machine diagnostics through laboratory experiments

Abstract

Hands-on-experiments are an important part of education in engineers. This work presents the development of laboratory practices for testing related to signal acquisition tasks that have been performed with students. The tests have been developed in the framework of a subject, where signal processing tools applied to machine diagnostics are taught as an important part of maintenance. Specifically, the type of signals that are used in the subject are time domain vibration signals. With the inclusion of the tests, postgraduate students of engineering learn how to use a machine to obtain vibration signals and how to set the machine for that purpose. Also, they are able to diagnose rotating elements with different faults; such as bearings, and unbalanced shafts. The laboratory practice gives the opportunity to tackle a job for themselves, which is one of the most important skills for the future engineer, as they gain experience.