Wear intensity evaluation in conveying systems - An acoustic emission and vibration measurement approach

Abstract

Conveying raw materials is essential in heavy industries and mostly accompanied by wear. Impinging of ma- terials cause energy transfer, generating elastic waves. In this work, an acoustic emission (AE) measurement system and an accelerometer for vibrations were utilised to assess different wear phenomena. A 3-fold approach was undertaken: i) identification of characteristic acoustic damage features in a model impact-test; ii) impact tests with raw materials on wear plates in lab-scale; iii) field test of the measurement systems in the harsh environment of a steel plant. Results showed clear frequency changes with decreasing plate thickness. Micro-cracking was indicated by high frequencies, showing the first stage of wear. AE and vibration measurements distinguished raw materials clearly in both, close-to-reality and field testing.