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METOL BALANS
What Is Balancing? Industrial Rotor Measurement and Correction
Understand rotor unbalance, how it differs from vibration, and the measurement and correction process for industrial fans, motors, rollers and shafts.
01FUNDAMENTALS
In industry, balancing is the condition required for rotating parts to operate safely and efficiently.
Balanced operation of motors, generators, pumps and similar rotating components reduces vibration, wear and unexpected machine failures.
During balancing, deviations in the rotor’s mass distribution are measured. The required correction positions and amounts are then defined to improve its behavior around the axis of rotation.
Correct balancing supports safety, stable production, longer equipment life and lower maintenance costs.
Unbalance and vibration are different quantities
Unbalance concerns mass distribution relative to the rotation axis. Vibration is the observed motion, and unbalance is not its only possible cause. Runout, misalignment, loose connections or bearing problems may also generate vibration. The component and mounting arrangement therefore need checking before balancing.
What does a balancing machine measure?
Sensor signals, an angular reference and machine calibration are used together to determine unbalance magnitude and angle in a correction plane. Unbalance is commonly expressed in g·mm: U = m × r. In the same plane and direction, 5 g at a radius of 100 mm has the same effect as 10 g at 50 mm.
How is balancing performed and completed?
The rotor is prepared and mounted, measured, corrected by adding or removing mass in an allowed area, and measured again. The process is complete when the final measurement meets the agreed residual unbalance limit. Addition and removal angles must not be confused; the correct correction mode must be selected in the software.
Industrial rotor balancing and wheel balancing
Balancing also describes automotive wheel and tyre work. This article concerns industrial rotors such as fans, motor rotors, rollers, shafts and disc components. Use the application pages and measuring guide below to explore the machine and correction method appropriate to your component.
