Predictive maintenance on the smart drive

What is behind the Smart Condition Monitoring product?
Smart Condition Monitoring uses recorded and analyzed process parameters from current and speed signals to monitor the mechanics of the machine and the electrical components such as the motor, fan and hydraulic pump. This standardized comparative measurement was already carried out when the system was commissioned and stored as a reference. The condition of the machine is revealed by further measurements and changes in the characteristic values and signals. Order and spectrum analyses can also be used to analyze specific fault frequencies that are attributable to bearing damage, imbalance or incorrect alignment, for example. Mechanical damage can thus be detected at an early stage before the entire machine comes to a standstill. In addition, optional external sensors, which are connected to our inverters, can be used to expand the diagnostic options. The tool can be used across all industries in order to reduce machine downtimes to a minimum and thus enable economical production.

You mention the possibility of using the drive for signal acquisition - what does that mean?
Many internal parameters and very fast computing operations are required for the very precise position, speed or torque control of our drives. We use existing algorithms for this control for monitoring without having to install extra hardware for the measurements. With our servo controllers, we have a very cost-effective way of recording signals in order to carry out various monitoring tasks. In addition, optional external sensors, such as acceleration sensors, which are connected to our inverters, can be used to further expand the diagnostic options.

How is information about possible damage to the system passed on to the user?
The software uses a signal to indicate whether the diagnosis was OK and production can continue, whether maintenance should be scheduled or whether immediate action must be taken and, for example, the speed reduced to prevent serious damage. In an HMI, this could be indicated by the colors green, yellow or red.

What components does a machine need in order to use Baumüller software?
As already described, the focus is on our smart drive. The software runs on the b maXX 3000, b maXX 5000 and soon also on the b maXX 6000 generation of converters. In order to integrate the results into the machine controller, the interface has been documented and can then be queried individually. If a Baumüller control system is used, we provide a library that automatically queries and processes the data.