Damper Condition Monitoring; Damper Temperature Control - Kohler SFGLD480 Operation & Maintenance Manual

Generator set models 750/1000rezk

Table of Contents

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.

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

T = Room Temperature

40ºC < T < 100ºC

T > 100ºC

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.

PRODUCT INFORMATION

IO-C-M-15-001e