PRODUCT INFORMATION
INDEX
DATE
Dep.2
IO-C-M-15-001e B
September 2013
DAMPER CONDITION MONITORING
1/4
1. INTRODUCTION
It is the damper's function to minimize the impact of the torsional vibrations developing in the crankshaft. These
vibrations originate in the successive explosions that take place in the combustion chambers and are transmitted
to the crankshaft through the pistons and connecting rods.
Damping is achieved as a viscous fluid (silicone) contained in a housing or idle flywheel spreads between the
internal plates secured to the end of the crankshaft. As silicone oil deteriorates in time, servicing becomes
necessary.
There are two methods for monitoring the condition of a damper:
-
controlling
its
temperature
-
analyzing the silicone oil.
Whatever the method used, the control frequency shall be established in accordance with the specifications
contained in the Engine Maintenance Guidelines.
2. DAMPER TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Dampers have been fitted with a self-adhesive temperature indicator (ref.16.15.369) for controlling their operating
temperature.
Self-adhesive temperature indicator
This indicator enables an approximate control of the maximum permissible temperature on the damper surface. It
is to be noted, however, that this indicator only records discrete jumps of temperature. The self-adhesive indicator
has ten graduations between the two temperature limits that, in our case, are fixed at 71°C and 110°C. When the
temperature reaches or exceeds a reference value, the colour of the corresponding section or graduation
changes and turns black.
Temperature should be measured at least after one hour of operation at full power. Ideally,
the equilibrium
operating temperature of the damper should not exceed 100°C
. Above this temperature, silicone loses its
dampening properties and, consequently, the damper stops to operate correctly, which may give rise to an
increase in torsional vibrations, finally leading to severe failures of moving components, including the breaking of
crankshaft, gears, couplings, etc.
Damper Temperature
Condition
T = Room Temperature
Damper inoperative. Silicone in bad condition: solid.
40ºC < T < 100ºC
Ok.
T > 100ºC
Overheating. Possible failure of the engine.
It is important that the indicator does not come into contact with such elements as oil, grease, water, etc. Also, it
may happen that the indicator looses its thermal properties and the reagent turns grey after a certain time of
operation. This is why, for permanent temperature monitoring, the indicators should be changed from time to time.
An alternative of this monitoring system consists in measuring the temperature with an infrared thermometer that
permits measurements of the existing or instantaneous temperature.
5.2.51
O&M_2.002211.810_A_10_2016
