What are the main causes of imbalance in rotating machinery?

Unbalance in rotating machinery can be a scary, and sometimes dangerous occurrence. The machinery will cause vibrations that can be detected by a balancing machine. There are many reasons this could occur due to the sensitivity of the machinery. Read about the causes of unbalance in rotating machinery below:

Loose parts

Loose parts, such as bolts and screws, within the machinery can cause unbalance due to the lack of support of other parts. However, unbalanced rotating machinery will emit vibrations, sometimes quite severe, that could also cause parts to loosen.

Overhung weight

Overhung weight refers to an overload of perpendicular weight at the ends of a shaft. This overhung weight causes unbalance due to the gravitational pull that bends the shaft that sits within the rotating machinery. If it is not balanced as soon as possible, it will cause major wear and tear.

Operating temperatures

The operating temperature of the machinery can also cause unbalance. Hot and cold air running through the machinery will make it expand and shrink, respectively. This change in the parts can result in an unequal force which would result in unbalance.

Debris or moisture

If the machinery is left standing for an extended period, debris such as dust could build up on its parts. Dust is a major cause of imbalance and regular maintenance should take place to ensure all parts are clean. If there is any moisture in the air, the parts of the machinery could corrode, another factor that could influence imbalance in the machinery.