空中伝搬AEセンシングに基づく回転円筒用軸受の非接触損傷検知

抄録

In manufacturing equipment, there are high expectations for so-called in-line monitoring technology, which detects damage while the original function of the equipment is operating from the viewpoints of real-time performance and speed. This study proposes a non-contact acoustic emission (AE) method for in-line monitoring. AE is weak elastic wave generated by cracks, rubbing and other damages in materials. We focused on the fact that AE waves originating from the bearings of rotating rollers propagate through the cylindrical body as guided waves and also propagate slightly into the air. The experiment showed that an air-coupled ultrasonic sensor inclined to the object could detect AE waves resulting from damage inflicted on the outer ring of a rotating bearing in a non-contact manner. This technique is promising for an inspection technology for manufacturing equipment or industrial machinery where direct sensor installation is impossible.