Vibration and acoustics analysis

IOtech's eZ-Analyst software for its portable, multi-function WaveBook series of data-acquisition products enables users to record, play back, analyze, and archive vibration or acoustic data in both time and frequency domains. Selectable hardware parameters include channel selection, frequency and voltage range, auto ranging, filtering, and triggering. Configurations can be saved and recalled for future use. Scheduled recordings can be set up so the system can begin an acquisition at a specified time and/or day and then continue until the desired elapsed time has occurred. Waveforms can be analyzed in real time while they are being acquired or after being stored on a hard drive. Up to 16 waveforms can be overlaid on one window, and up to eight windows can be displayed at one time.

Off-line inspection system

The CamScan 500 Inspection System from American Stress Technologies is an off-line audit inspection system used for testing camshafts. The system monitors residual stress from manufacturing processes and detects grinding damage and heat-treat qualities. The test piece is loaded and unloaded manually, and a sensor scans the ground surface. Test information is sent to a Rollscan central unit.

Imaging system

Designed for capturing high-speed events in harsh environments, the HG-100K CMOS-based imaging system from Redlake MASD, Inc., consists of three main components: a high-speed camera, an option hub, and a camera control unit for camera control and image processing. The camera and hub can withstand shocks up to 100 g in any axis. The camera control unit is capable of supporting many cameras in a single network. The HG-100K generates 1.7 megapixel images at recording rates up to 1000 full frames per second, and up to 100,000 partial frames per second. The 1504 x 1128 pixel sensor includes an electronic shutter that has exposure times down to 5 ms to eliminate motion blur and deliver sharp images.

Thermocouple conditioner

The model 4120 linearized thermocouple conditioner from R.C. Electronics is a dual-channel module that provides signal amplification, nonlinearity correction, and cold-junction compensation for the conversion of the millivolt output of a thermocouple into a 0 to 10-V signal that is linearly proportional to temperature. A programmable voltage reference for internal self-test and automated user calibration functions is provided. Visual indications of the system's operation during testing are provided by output overload fault and mode LEDs. Each channel of the system can be configured individually for use with any of eight thermocouple types (B, E, J, K, N, R, S, and T) with 12 temperature ranges. It can be programmed through the front panel keypad or remotely via an RS-232 serial communications port.

Engine exhaust monitoring

Nett MDS (monitoring data system) from Nett Technologies is designed to monitor and record engine exhaust backpressure and temperature in real time, thus allowing the capture of data related to engine duty cycles. The captured data can also be used to assist in the selection of retrofit diesel particulate filters (DPF). After DPF installation, the system can provide data for troubleshooting to maintain DPF integrity during equipment operation. Data sample intervals can be set between 0.5 and 128 s, and maximum allowable backpressure values can be preset to trigger an alarm signal. Nett MDS is packaged in a watertight die-cast housing and comes with thermocouple, wiring harness, and Microsoft Windows-compatible software for calibration and data reading.