FUNDAMENTALS OF ROTATING MACHINERY Most pieces of rotating machinery have natural oscillation rates.

If external forces cause machinery to deviate from its natural oscillation rate, an effect called resonance could occur and further damage the equipment. Various rotating machinery vibration analysis instruments can assisst in early detection of damaging resonance. ROTOR SYSTEM The rotor system includes the shaft, gears and a drive mechanism. Rotating machinery is characterised by at least one central rotor. A rotor is a cylindrical shaft that transfers electrical or chemical energy into mechanical energy. The rotor system also contains bearings, gears and other components that boost machine efficiency. Dynamic charateristics of the rotor system include the geometry of the machinery, maximum and required loads, rotating speed and lubrication requirements. The geometry can be in the same plane or have various gears to change direction and speed of the rotation. This geometry combined with the drive mechanisms determines the maximum rotating speeds. Rotating machinery generates heat and without proper lubrication, components could fail.