Industrial Vibration Monitoring

Why Was Vibration Monitoring Requested?

Gordon Wyman, based in Lincoln, operates a large forging hammer. Vibration monitoring was commissioned to support planning applications and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

What Was Being Assessed?

Operators worked from a platform attached directly to the hammer’s main frame. Given the intensity of the machinery, it was initially assumed that vibration and shock levels would be high—potentially harmful to both staff and local residents.

How Was the Assessment Carried Out?

The forging hammer used two opposing tups that approached each other at equal speeds. This symmetrical design resulted in balanced impact forces that effectively cancelled each other out. As a result, no significant vibration or shock was transmitted through the platform.

Measurements revealed that vibration levels on the operator platform were comparable to those on the surrounding concrete floor—much lower than anticipated.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates the importance of detailed vibration assessments. Initial concerns about excessive vibration were disproven, providing valuable data for health and safety assurance and planning purposes.