Gearbox diagnostics and inspection

Stork Optimization Services is an independent business unit that measures different operating variables and parameters. The unit is able to conduct vibration, torque, infrared and geometric measurements at short notice, anywhere in the world. These measurements allow clients to establish the dynamic behaviour of their installations.

Machine diagnostics

Vibration measurements

Stork Optimization Services uses two systems to conduct vibration measurements: the CSI portable spectrum analyser and the Bently Nevada multichannel real-time analyser. Both systems are used to determine the dynamic behaviour of turbo machinery by measuring housing vibration and axle displacement. As comparatively little time is needed to set up the hardware, we are able to measure vibration levels onsite (the spectrum analyser can detect all kinds of errors and/or defects).
Should a problem be encountered, its cause will be determined and discussed with the client. Stork Gears & Services may, at that stage, be asked to resolve it. Should a more detailed analysis be required, it can be conducted at short notice. The outcome is explained in a report.
Vibration measurements »

Torque measurements

Stork Optimization Services performs torque measurements wherever stretch strips are used (gearboxes and screw axles). Using our advanced RMC-sensor telemetric system, we’re able to monitor torque levels on an ongoing basis.
Torque measurements »

Infrared measurements

Stork Optimization Services measures mechanical and electrical equipment for thermographic infrared emissions. Our Raytek ThermoViewTM Ti30, which is used to measure the temperature of metals and non-metals, has an operating range between 0 and 2500oC (32 to 4820oF).
Infrared measurements »

Geometric measurements

Stork Optimization Services uses a Faro measuring arm to conduct highaccuracy onsite measurements. The data obtained can be used to define overall gearbox geometry or to reverse engineer one or more parts. To this end, the data is imported into a 3D CAD programme and analysed by our engineering department. 3D measurement can also be used to align gearboxes, turbines and bogies.
Using the newest laser equipment, precise measurements accurate to within 0.01 mm can be performed, such as:

Shaft alignments
Flatness
Straightness
Perpendicular measurements
Line boring
Parallel measurements

Geometric measurements »

Diagnostics

Visual inspections

In addition, visual inspections of gearboxes are done to record the condition of the gears and bearings. These activities are often done in combination with vibration measurements in order to obtain as complete as possible overview of the gearbox and/or installation. These visual inspections can also be done using an industrial endoscope. Any images of damage can be recorded using a suitably compatible digital camera.

We recently invested in an advanced new videoscope system: Everest XLG3 VideoProbe. This portable remote visual inspection tool streamlines inspections to get gearbox systems up and running quickly. The Everest XLG3 VideoProbe system is built to withstand tough field inspection environments, such as difficult to reach windturbine gearboxes.
Visual inspections »

Faro Arm

Platinum FaroArm® portable cmm

Stork Gears & Services has recently invested in the FaroArm, the world’s most accurate and advanced portable cmm with .0005" accuracy. The revolutionary FaroArm is able to perform very accurate and sophisticated measurements.