Machine Condition Monitoring (MCM) is an essential component of modern maintenance philosophies.  MCM is founded on the following basic principles:

Suitable Technique(s)
The use of either Vibration Analysis, Oil Analysis or other techniques is dictated by a number of factors including the machine type, its criticality and the availability of service suppliers. An MCM audit will identify the most appropriate techniques, the required frequency of the service, and if an on-line system is justified.

Expertise (Q) and Appropriate Systems
MCM is largely based on the expertise of the technician in conjunction with the instrument type and diagnostic tools being used. MCM is an acquired skill based on science but requiring specific instrument and industry knowledge.  Like many skills, MCM cannot be bought in a box off the shelf, although service providers can fulfill this role. Maintaining the expertise is an important part of the system and this can only be done in-house by very large companies.

MCM History
Accurate results require some history of the MCM parameters being measured, such as wear metal content or the amplitude of a vibration defect frequency.  By trending these parameters machine component defects can be detected at an early stage and with confidence.  Thus the establishment of an MCM program will typically require some months of data collection to aquire the necessary history.

Maintenance Knowledge (Q) and Communications
The final result of an MCM service is the effective communication of an accurate and timely MCM report.  The utility of this information is dependant on the MCM provider having a knowledge of the machines, the industry and the maintenance regimes being applied. If the system is being operated successfully there will be a close relationship between the MCM and Maintenance groups, resulting in a trust from both parties.

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