Concrete base influence on the increased vibrations level of the mill drive system elements - A case study

The paper presents the influence of concrete base cracks on the state and performance of mill electrical drive components based on vibration measurements taken at characteristic locations for the drive group. Measurements were performed before and after the reconstruction of the concrete base, under the full load of electrical drive, to demonstrate the negative impact of the existing and to verify the accuracy and advantage of the newly applied solution. Technical solution for repair and reconstruction of the supporting concrete structure of the mill drive group was derived from a detailed load analysis, subsequently identified cracks in the concrete, from the results of measured vibrations, as well as in accordance with discovered causes of the concrete base deterioration. The newly applied solution significantly reduced the level of vibration. Analysis of measurement results presented in the case study has once more verified the potential of vibration spectral analysis in terms of monitoring and diagnostics of problems in idustrial drive operation. Vibro-diagnostic method within proactive maintenance of industrial drives provides reliable early detection of malfunctions and accordingly better time and capacitive utilization of industrial resources, leading to significant economical benefits. •The influence of concrete base cracks on the state and performance of a mill electrical drive components.•Vibration measurements were taken at characteristic locations for the drive group.•Measurements were performed before and after the concrete base reconstruction, under the full load of electrical drive.•The measurements have demonstrated the negative impact old solution and verified the advantage of the new solution.•The new applied solution significantly reduced the level of vibration.