Background
Cooling fans may seem like relatively small components within roll grinders systems, however they can have a significant impact on operational performance.
During a recent strip marking investigation, our engineers noticed a vibration occurring on a roll grinder, measured on both the wheel head and the head stock steady, that correlated with the marking pitch observed on sheet metal output from the mill.
Using advanced vibration analysis techniques and our experience in the field, we determined that the unwanted vibration was a result of a fan imbalance on the headstock motor. While still onsite, our team worked with the client to dismantle the fan in order to carry out a visual inspection.
Solution
It was clear that a significant amount of residue had built up on the blades of the fan, causing an imbalance that resulted in the vibration measured on the grinder. The client’s maintenance team were able to clean the fan and reinstall it on the machine immediately.
Outcome
After the fan was reinstalled, we took further measurements using the same operating conditions. We found that the amplitude of the problem vibration had been reduced by more than 76% - a great improvement!
In order to completely eliminate the fan vibration issue, we recommended that the client replace the fan with a clean one and that the original be thoroughly cleaned.
“ We know from experience that even if vibration from fans can seem insignificant considering the size of the machines they are mounted on, they can have the potential to mark the rolls being ground. These marks can then transfer to the rolling mills, causing quality issues in the output strip. ”
Florian Cabaret - Vibration Consultant - Vibremo
This case study highlights the importance of maintaining clean and well-balanced fans. We work with our clients to ensure that any fan-related issues are identified and solved quickly and efficiently.
Regular grinder inspections allow for similar issues, such as bearing or gearbox defects, to be resolved before they begin to cause quality problems on machines, and eventually, the output strip.
