April 2019

allows maintenance teams to identify mechanical faults earlier in the P-F Curve and even develop a more effective lubrication practice. Coupling remote monitoring with ultrasound could prove to be one of those paradigm-shifting developments. Ultrasound works best when you have as much sound information to work with as possible – that makes it easier to identify patterns, establish baselines and pinpoint inconsistencies. Moreover, as much as today’s maintenance technicians want to avoid reactive maintenance, there are certain assets that take priority over others. Anything that’s closer to failure will earn more attention, meaning other assets could fly under the radar if they’re assumed to be newer and in better shape. Remote monitoring can give technicians a way to keep an eye – or ear – on assets that aren’t being monitored. That’s true for ultrasound monitoring on both mechanical and electrical assets. There are few limitations on the application for ultrasound remote monitoring. Any instance where maintenance professionals are collecting manual data through handheld devices might be an opportunity to monitor remotely. In other cases, equipment that is difficult to access – dangerous, remote, isolated, submerged – can receive the type of regular monitoring that extends useful life. Additionally, slow speed assets are great candidates for remote monitoring because it would otherwise require the maintenance technician to take a longer time to gather enough information manually. Beyond the advantages of larger data sets and remote collection, remote monitoring comes with an easy installation and the potential for a wireless setup. Compared to other systems, ultrasound remote monitoring is a cost-effective choice. Ultrasound use cases Let’s break down a few of the most common ways plant technicians utilise ultrasound maintenance to improve reliability: Leak detection: Huge energy-saving (and therefore, money-saving) potential in compressed air and gas leaks, steam trap testing and valve testing. This is the most common application and it gives back the quickest return on investment. Some ultrasound tools can even be coupled with a free leak reporting app in iTunes and Google Play, like UE Systems’ Leak Survey app. Electrical inspection: For corona, tracking and arcing, ultrasound usage is driven by safety, insurance agreements, standards and improved technology and software. Keep in mind, here, that it’s a good idea to use more than one technology to avoid missing potential problems, especially corona. Condition monitoring: Bearings, rotating equipment, and condition- based lubrication are all good candidates for regular remote ultrasound inspection. The best practice here is to establish a route, find baseline readings, determine trends and identify alarm levels. Ultrasound is particularly helpful with slow speed bearings. Today’s facilities should capitalise on the latest trend in reliable maintenance to ensure they get the most out of their assets. As technologies like remote monitoring emerge, they have a positive net effect on industry. Remote monitoring is the latest important plant maintenance technology, enhancing an already valuable tool and allowing plants to build a predictive maintenance culture. For further information please visit: www.uesystems.com 14 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk April 2019 Maintenance Matters Focus on: Condition Monitoring