Machine Motion Analysis – Controlling unexpected machine vibrations

In this training, you will learn how machines actually behave during operation and why some installations continue to vibrate despite correct maintenance. The focus is on understanding motion, stability and structural weaknesses rather than simply reading limit values. You will discover how foundation design, installation and loading conditions influence machine behaviour.

The course starts from recognisable real-world situations and makes complex phenomena understandable. You will gain practical tools to address vibration issues structurally and eliminate the source of instability, instead of merely treating symptoms.

1. Analysis of unexpected vibrations

• learning to interpret vibration data in relation to machine behaviour
• distinguishing between normal vibrations and signals indicating instability
• detecting abnormal frequencies, amplitudes and vibration patterns

2. Uncovering structural weaknesses

• gaining insight into how structures respond to dynamic loads
• analysing the effects of:
  • clearance or looseness in components
  • resonance and natural frequencies
  • inadequate foundations or anchoring issues
• understanding how these factors affect vibration behaviour and machine performance

3. Motion visualisation and interpretation

• learning techniques to make machine movements visible during operation
• identifying looseness, resonance or imbalance through visual and measurable indicators
• gaining deeper insight into the actual dynamic behaviour of the installation

4. Solutions and actions

• defining targeted technical interventions based on the analysis
• restoring structural stability by addressing the root cause
• implementing preventive measures to extend the service life of machine components

Learning objectives

This training is intended for maintenance engineers, reliability engineers, technical managers and maintenance managers who regularly face recurring vibration issues. It is suitable for professionals who want to look beyond measurements alone and understand and resolve the structural causes of instability.

Typical machines and applications

This training is particularly relevant for professionals working with, among others:

• electric motors and drive trains
• pumps, fans and blowers
• compressors
• gearboxes and mechanical transmissions
• machines installed on steel structures or concrete foundations
• installations equipped with variable frequency drives (VFDs)

Approach

BEMAS and Orbits organize four individual training courses that can be followed on their own, or together as a coherent, practice-oriented learning package focused on machine diagnosis and reliable maintenance. The learning path combines early detection, deep analysis, structural understanding, and targeted mitigation. By following the courses step by step, you build an integrated understanding of machine behavior — from cause to solution — leading to better maintenance decisions, higher reliability, and less unplanned downtime. For those seeking maximum practical impact, it is recommended to follow all four courses.

Further information about these courses can be found on the respective dedicated pages.

• Machine Health Scan: Early detection of machine degradation
   
• Machine Fault Analysis – uncovering the root cause of machine failure
   
• Bearing Currents – Understanding and solving high-frequency stray currents in electric motors