Condition monitoring is the process of determining the condition of machinery while in operation. The key to a successful condition monitoring programme includes:
- Knowing what to listen for
- How to interpret it
- When to put this knowledge to use
Successfully using this programme enables the repair of problem components prior to failure. Condition monitoring not only helps plant personnel reduce the possibility of catastrophic failure, but also allows them to order parts in advance, schedule manpower, and plan other repairs during the downtime.