Acoustic emissions observed from a naturally degrading slow speed bearing and shaft

Abstract

Condition monitoring through the use of Acoustic Emission (AE) monitoring is gaining acceptance as a useful complimentary tool. This study presents an experimental investigation for incipient fault detection of a low speed thrust bearing and shaft with the AE technology. A low speed test-rig was employed to accelerate natural degradation on both machine components. Throughout the life of the components AE measurements were acquired. It is shown that the AE technology offers the opportunity to monitoring crack propagation and subsequent fracture of slow speed rotating machines.