Both oil analysis and vibration analysis are powerful tools when employed to identify defects in rotating machine train elements such as bearings and gears. However, if used together, these tools can become even more beneficial. When the oil analyst and vibration analyst compare notes, use one another’s findings to complement their own analysis, and present a cohesive picture of asset health, it creates a more complete analysis of the asset’s condition and instills confidence in the asset owner. However, when the two analysts do not compare notes and present their results independently, the opposite effect is often produced. The asset owner may become confused or frustrated with the apparent lack of coordination or confusion caused by reports with apparent conflicts.
