PROGNOSTIC POTENTIAL OF THE ACOUSTIC EMISSION TECHNIQUE FOR SPUR GEARS

摘要

Research in prognosis of gear life using the AE technique is relatively new in condition monitoring of rotating machinery. This paper describes an investigation undertaken on fatigue tests of gears in which natural pitting was allowed to occur. Acoustic Emission parameters were monitored throughout the test period in an attempt to relate natural life degradation to AE activity. Furthermore, vibration was monitored for comparative purposes. It is concluded that the AE technique is capable of detecting the onset on pitting much earlier than vibration analysis. In addition, opportunities for prognosis with the AE technique are very encouraging.