Simply put, vibration in electrically powered equipment refers to the back and forth oscillation or movement of the components of a motor. Motor-driven devices rely on this oscillation to actuate their mechanical systems and perform certain functions. Take the case of a motor-driven water pump, for instance. The back-and-forth vibratory movements of the motor generates the suction and discharge force needed to move fluids from one point to another. One thing you must pay attention when dealing with motor-driven equipment is the manner in which it is secured to its foundation. If the equipment doesn't have enough foundational support, it can cause accidents or end up with mechanical problems. Here are some aspects you must check regarding foundational support for motor-driven equipment:

Shims

Certainly, some motors are powerful, and they generate very high-frequency vibrations. Therefore, machines can move slightly out of position, wear off due to regular friction or even cause cracks on walls and floors. The good thing is that you can use shims to align machine parts, make them stay put in position and reduce the possibility of wear.   

The Bolting on the Equipment

Bolting is an elemental aspect when you are mounting a motor-driven machine. Bolts or screws are the preferred modes of mounting because of the flexibility that they offer. They allow you to change the location of the machine depending on your usage needs, unlike other mounting alternatives (such as welding), which do not offer much in terms of mobility. The first thing you should check is the number of bolts that you have used versus the bolting provisions on the housing of the motor-driven machine. Make sure that each provision has the right bolt for optimal support for the equipment. To add on that, you shouldn't be able to turn any of the bolts by hand. It might be a sign of inappropriate foundational installation, and you must go over your manual to identify any faults.

Soft Foot Problems

Motor-driven equipment can also be affected by soft foot problems. This is a case where one or more feet of the machine's foundation differ in height, interfering with the machine's ability to distribute its weight evenly over its supporting structure. Note that some of the motor-driven generate eccentric electromagnetic force whenever their weight isn't well distributed. This interferes with the smooth running of the motor. After setting up the machine on its foundation or supporting structure, look out for any soft foot problems and use pieces of rubber underneath the short legs to create some balance.

For more info, contact a company like VSS - Vibration Systems & Solutions (Australia).

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