What are the most effective ways to measure and track rotating equipment performance?

1 Use key performance indicators

One of the first steps to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to define and use key performance indicators (KPIs) that reflect the specific goals and objectives of your equipment and process. KPIs are measurable values that indicate how well your equipment is performing against a set of standards or targets. Some examples of KPIs for rotating equipment are availability, reliability, efficiency, capacity, power consumption, vibration, temperature, pressure, and flow. By collecting and analyzing data on these KPIs, you can evaluate the current state of your equipment and compare it with the desired or expected state.

2 Implement condition monitoring

Another effective way to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to implement condition monitoring, which is the process of continuously or periodically observing and measuring the physical parameters and operational characteristics of your equipment. Condition monitoring can help you detect and diagnose any signs of deterioration, degradation, or malfunction in your equipment before they lead to failure or damage. Some of the common methods and tools for condition monitoring are vibration analysis, thermography, oil analysis, ultrasonic testing, and acoustic emission.

3 Apply predictive maintenance

A third effective way to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to apply predictive maintenance, which is the practice of using condition monitoring data and predictive models to schedule and perform maintenance activities based on the actual condition and performance of your equipment. Predictive maintenance can help you optimize your maintenance resources, reduce downtime and costs, extend equipment life, and improve safety and quality. Some of the benefits of predictive maintenance are reduced unplanned outages, increased availability and reliability, lower maintenance and repair costs, and enhanced energy efficiency.

4 Utilize digital technologies

A fourth effective way to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to utilize digital technologies, such as sensors, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These technologies can help you collect, store, process, and analyze large amounts of data from your equipment and process in real time and provide you with actionable insights and recommendations. By using digital technologies, you can automate and optimize your performance measurement and tracking processes, improve your decision making and problem solving, and enhance your equipment performance and process efficiency.

5 Adopt best practices

A fifth effective way to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to adopt best practices, which are proven methods and standards that can help you achieve optimal results and outcomes. Best practices can vary depending on your industry, equipment, process, and objectives, but some general examples are following the manufacturer's guidelines and specifications, conducting regular inspections and audits, performing preventive maintenance and calibration, ensuring proper alignment and balance, using quality lubricants and filters, and training and educating your staff.

6 Learn from others

A sixth effective way to measure and track rotating equipment performance is to learn from others, such as your peers, experts, consultants, or industry associations. Learning from others can help you gain new knowledge, skills, and perspectives, discover new opportunities and solutions, and avoid common mistakes and pitfalls. Some of the ways to learn from others are attending workshops and seminars, joining online forums and communities, reading books and articles, watching videos and webinars, and seeking feedback and advice.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?