Table of contents Product description ............... 6 Introduction ..................... 6 SKF Axios devices ..................6 SKF Axios Software ..................7 Benefits ......................8 How it works ....................9 Getting started ................10 Account activation ..................10 Download the mobile app ................10 Accessing a project ..................
Page 4
Action taken ....................55 Reporting an issue in the mobile or web app ..........56 Taking a one-time measurement ..............57 Troubleshooting ................58 Troubleshooting issues with SKF Axios Sensors ......... 58 If you can9t commission your sensors............58 8.1.1 8.1.2 If your sensor is offline ..................
Page 5
Appendix E Scaling up at your facility ..........72 Where should SKF Axios be installed ..............72 How to determine he components where SKF Axios should be installed ..72 Example of SKF Axios installed on a belt conveyor ..........72 Considerations for building an Asset list where SKF Axios is installed ....
The web application provides all the same functions as the mobile app, except hardware commissioning. Reliability and maintenance teams can quickly deploy SKF Axios to track the machine health of industrial equipment, such as bearings, motors, gearboxes, and pumps, without any development work or specialized training.
SKF Axios Gateways 1.3 SKF Axios Software SKF Axios mobile and web-based applications are used to access your company9s project. Under the company project, users can add sites and assets. Once the sensors and gateways are installed, the mobile app is used to commission them and start the data collection.
Benefits SKF Axios Software 3 App and Web example Figure 4 As SKF Axios collects more data, it improves its machine learning (ML) model and learns to make more accurate estimates of potential machine abnormalities. 1.4 Benefits SKF Axios provides the following key benefits: "...
1. An SKF Axios sensor captures temperature and vibration data from the equipment (the asset) and transmits it to the gateway. 2. An SKF Axios gateway transmits the data to the AWS Cloud using the facility's internet connection. 3. The SKF Axios ML-based service in the AWS Cloud analyses the sensor data.
2.3 Accessing a project SKF will create a project for you in the software, under which you can add sites, assets, gateways, and sensors. Once your project is created, you will receive a project invitation from SKF. Click on the project link to access the project using...
For example, you might want a single site that includes resources and users assigned to the shipping department. Sites can be added in the web-based software or in the mobile application. SKF Axios 11 (83) User Manual...
Site and the list of the other Sites will appear in a drop-down menu for you to select from (example: Demo #1 and Demo #2 below). Figure 8 Site navigation - example 12 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
GETTING STARTED Managing users 2.6 Managing users To invite a new user to your project, contact SKF to setup their AWS account. Each new user will receive an account activation email. See Account Activation. Once the AWS account is activated, a project-level admin can add the new user to a project and/or site.
Page 14
Resolve Alarm on site level) level) Yes (only (only on Yes (only on Yes (only on Monitron on Monitron View Data Monitron Monitron) and site level) and site and site level) level) 14 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
2.6.2 Creating a user In the mobile app: 1. Log into the SKF Axios mobile app on your smartphone. 2. Navigate to the project or site that you want to add a user to, and then to the Users list.
3 Setting up and managing Ethernet Gateways SKF Axios uses SKF Axios Gateways to transfer the data collected by the SKF Axios Sensors to the AWS Cloud. Gateways are usually positioned within 20 to 30 meters (65 to 98 feet) of the sensors. They communicate with the sensors over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and with the AWS Cloud over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Unlike sensors, an Ethernet gateway doesn't need to be attached to the machines that are being monitored. However, it does need an available Ethernet network through which SKF Axios can connect to the AWS Cloud. Where to place an Ethernet Gateway You can install a gateway almost anywhere within your work area, depending on its layout.
Page 18
To mount the bracket, choose one of the following. Screw mounting Typically, you mount the bracket directly to the wall using the mounting screws included in the gateway box. Mount the bracket from the front. You might need to 18 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
Page 19
Plastic-tie mounting To mount a gateway to a smaller non-wall location, such as a pillar or fence, use cable ties (also known as zip ties) to fasten the wall mounting bracket. Put the SKF Axios 19 (83) User Manual Revision A...
3.5 Commissioning an Ethernet Gateway Once the gateway is mounted in your facility, use the SKF Axios mobile app to commission it. SKF Axios supports only smartphones using Android 8.0+ or iOS 14+ with near field communication (NFC) and Bluetooth.
Page 21
5. Open the mobile app on your smartphone. 6. Choose the menu icon (6). Go to Gateways. Choose Add Gateway. 7. SKF Axios searches for the gateway. This can take a few moments. When SKF Axios finds the gateway, it displays it in the gateway list.
3.6 Troubleshooting Ethernet Gateway detection When you add a gateway to your project or site, as soon as you choose Add Gateway, the SKF Axios mobile app starts scanning for the gateway. If the app can't find the gateway, try the following troubleshooting tips.
You may find yourself attempting to pair your iOS mobile device with a gateway that it has already paired with. This could happen because the gateway has changed locations, or because the general configuration of your SKF Axios site has been altered.
Resetting the Ethernet Gateway to factory settings 3.8 Resetting the Ethernet Gateway to factory settings If you re-use a gateway that was deleted from SKF Axios mobile app, use the config button to reset the gateway to factory settings. This prepares the gateway to be used again for SKF Axios mobile app.
SETTING UP AND MANAGING ETHERNET GATEWAYS Deleting an Ethernet Gateway To list your gateways using the web app 1. Log into the SKF Axios web app 2. Choose Gateways from the left navigation menu. 3. The gateway list appears in the right pane.
Page 26
Deleting an Ethernet Gateway To delete a gateway using the web app 1. Navigate to the Viewing the list of Gateways. 2. Select the gateway from the table. 3. Choose Delete gateway. 26 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
Understanding the Wi-Fi Gateway 4 Setting up and managing Wi-Fi Gateways SKF Axios uses SKF Axios Gateways to transfer the data collected by the SKF Axios Sensors to the AWS Cloud. Gateways are usually positioned in facilities within 20 to 30 meters (65 to 98 feet) of the sensors. They communicate with the sensors over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and with the AWS Cloud over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Reading the lights on a Wi-Fi Gateway 4.2 Reading the lights on a Wi-Fi Gateway The LED lights on the top of your SKF Axios Wi-Fi Gateway indicate the status of the gateway. Each LED light has one orange light and one blue light. The orange light indicates that the gateway is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Page 29
You can mount the gateway on the wall mounting bracket through the small screw hole in the center of one of the short sides. To mount the bracket, choose one of the following techniques. SKF Axios 29 (83) User Manual...
Page 30
Remove the remaining backing and apply the bracket to the mounting location. Press hard on the bracket to make sure that the tape firmly adheres to the surface. Figure 19 Tape mounting 30 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
Page 31
When the gateway is upright, the SKF logo on the front of the device is right-side up. The two holes that will reveal the LEDs are just above the logo, on the right side.
If you have problems connecting to your gateway, see Troubleshooting Wi-Fi gateway detection. 4.5 Commissioning a Wi-Fi Gateway Once your gateway is mounted in your facility, use the SKF Axios mobile app to commission it. SKF Axios supports only smartphones using "...
Page 33
For more information, see Troubleshooting Bluetooth pairing. It can take a few moments for SKF Axios to connect to the new gateway. If the mobile app continues to try to connect to the gateway without success, see Troubleshooting Wi-Fi gateway detection. SKF Axios...
When you add a gateway to your project or site, as soon as you choose Add gateway the SKF Axios mobile app starts scanning to find it. If the mobile app can't find the gateway, try the following troubleshooting tips.
Resetting the Wi-Fi Gateway to factory settings 4.7 Resetting the Wi-Fi Gateway to factory settings If you reuse a gateway that was deleted from SKF Axios, you use the commissioning button to reset the gateway to factory settings. This prepares the gateway to be used again for SKF Axios.
4. Choose Delete again. To delete a gateway using the web app 1. Navigate to the Viewing the list of Gateways. 2. Select the gateway from the table. 3. Choose Delete gateway. 36 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
5.1 Managing assets Use the SKF Axios app to list all the assets in your site or project. To make sure that you are at the correct site, please see Navigating through Sites.
MANAGING ASSETS AND SENSORS Managing assets SKF Axios software 3 App and Web Assets managing Figure 23 5.1.1 Viewing the list of Assets The Assets page displays the list of assets. The Assets page is the app's main page. When you open the app, this is the page that you see. To return to the Assets page from another page in the app, use this procedure.
No Sensor appears next to it. 5.1.2 Changing an Asset name After you add an asset, you can change only its name. You can't change the asset's machine class. SKF Axios 39 (83) User Manual Revision A...
1. From the app's main menu, choose Assets. 2. Choose the asset that you want to delete. 3. For Asset details, choose Actions. 4. Choose Delete asset. Choose one of the following options. 40 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
Page 41
Choose Delete sensors and positions. When you delete a sensor or position, all historical measurements taken at this position will also be deleted. It can take a few moments for SKF Axios to delete all of the paired sensors and positions.
Positioning a sensor 6 Managing Sensors and Sensor positions Sensors collect the data from your equipment, then SKF Axios uses that data to detect developing abnormalities. Where you mount a sensor (the position) is extremely important for collecting and analyzing data.
Page 43
The following example of a gearbox shows how vibration can be transmitted through equipment in this way, along with a potential location for a sensor to detect this vibration. SKF Axios 43 (83) User Manual Revision A...
Page 44
Different types of loads on the bearings result in different load zones. Placing the sensor as close as possible to the center of the load zone is most likely to provide the best data. Figure 27 Different load zones 44 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
The temperature and vibration detectors are located on the base of the SKF Axios sensors. Any area of the base is effective as a target contact area, but the contact area must be at least 30 x 25 mm (1 in x 1¼ in) for reliable detection.
Positioning a sensor. Important note: After you pair a sensor to an Asset, SKF Axios establishes a baseline for that position. The baseline tells SKF Axios how the asset performs under normal conditions. SKF Axios uses this information to identify abnormal conditions.
Page 47
If you previously created an asset and have already paired sensors to it: i. After you choose the asset, you will see a dropdown list of sensors associated with that asset. Choose the View option at the top of that list. SKF Axios 47 (83) User Manual Revision A...
Page 48
Mounting a sensor to an asset. 4. Name the position that the sensor will monitor. SKF recommends that you use a name that is clear and easy for you to work with. (See Appendix C Guidelines to help you name your Assets Positions) 5.
3. For Position name, enter a new name. 4. Choose Save. 6.5 Deleting a sensor Deleting a sensor prevents SKF Axios from collecting more data with it. It doesn't delete the data that it has already collected. To delete a sensor in the mobile app 1.
Date the sensor was last commissioned " Date of the last measurement " Last gateway it connected to " Current signal strength of the last gateway " Sensor type " Firmware version 50 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
SKF Axios collects temperature and vibration data from sensors and monitors asset conditions for abnormalities that might indicate developing faults. You monitor your assets either with the SKF Axios web app, or with the SKF Axios mobile app, which you download and install on your smartphone. SKF Axios supports only smartphones using "...
Navigation through Sites. When you open the SKF Axios mobile app, it displays the list of assets associated with the site or project that you last worked with. To navigate to the Assets list from elsewhere in the app, use the following procedure.
UNDERSTANDING MEASUREMENTS AND MACHINE ABNORMALITIES Acknowledging a machine abnormality SKF Axios uses icons similar to the asset status icons to show the status of sensor positions. Figure 31 Position Status and Meaning 7.2.3 Notifications When a warning or an alarm alert is generated, SKF Axios sends a notification to the admin user and technician in the app.
After an abnormality occurs, it needs to be acknowledged, and then addressed. You can do all of this within the mobile and web apps. Resolving an abnormality returns the sensor to a healthy state. It also sends SKF Axios information about the problem so it can better predict similar abnormalities.
4. For Failure mode, choose the type of failure that occurred. 5. For Failure cause, choose the cause of the failure. 6. For Action taken, choose which action you took. 7. Choose Submit. SKF Axios 55 (83) User Manual Revision A...
4. For Failure cause, choose the type of failure that occurred. 5. For Failure cause, choose the cause of the failure. 6. For Action taken, choose which action you took. 7. Choose Submit. 56 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
5. Hold your smartphone close to the sensor. 6. When the measurement has been taken, move your smartphone away from the sensor. The new measurement is added to the data that the sensor has already collected. SKF Axios 57 (83) User Manual Revision A...
8.1.2 If your sensor is offline Once a sensor has been paired to an asset, SKF Axios will make three attempts (over the course of 30 seconds) to take the initial measurement. If neither of those attempts is successful, then an alert like the one below will appear in the app.
Replace it with a new sensor. " Confirm that an available gateway is within range. SKF Axios sensors and gateways communicate using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), with a typical range of 20 to 30 meters (65 to 98 feet). In a completely open space, a sensor and a gateway may communicate with each other at greater distances.
IP address to the same device. " Verify that your firewall is not blocking the gateway. SKF Axios gateways use TCP port 8883. You must allow connections to TCP port 8883 for amazonaws.com subdomains in order to provide firewall access to SKF Axios gateways.
Page 61
If it's an Ethernet gateway, check the network configuration. " Delete the gateway using the SKF Axios mobile app, do a factory reset of the gateway, and then install the gateway again. For more information, Resetting the Wi-Fi gateway to factory settings...
APPENDIX A Issue resolution feedback that modifies the ML model Appendix A Issue resolution feedback that modifies the ML Model Type of Impact on ML Feedback Meaning feedback Model -If the Alarm/warning was triggered by ISO, this will then stop ISO The user has warning/alarms on checked the asset...
Page 63
This will trigger a The part/component new learning period Action or asset was to adapt for the new Replace taken replaced after the vibration/temperature issue was found. levels of the new components/parts. SKF Axios 63 (83) User Manual Revision A...
Page 64
Issue resolution feedback that modifies the ML model Type of Feedback Picture feedback Failure No Failure Mode Detected Undetermined Failure (Keep Mode monitoring) No Action Action (keep taken monitoring Action Modify taken Action Overhaul taken Action Replace taken 64 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
When a sensor detects a machine abnormality, the status of the asset changes. When a problem occurs, you can see it in the Assets list in the SKF Axios app. Below is a list of actions the user can take to analyze the issue, detect the root cause of the abnormality, and return the asset to a healthy state.
11. Inspection required with Stroboscope? (Yes / No / NA) 12. Motor current within normal operating parameters? (Yes / No / NA) Act based on the findings you see from SKF Axios and from the checklist, fix the abnormality then resolve it on the app/webapp.
3 starting with <01= at the Non-Drive End (NDE) of the driver asset, through to the NDE of the driven asset. The following image is an illustration of this practice applied to a machine with a motor, gearbox, and a pump: SKF Axios 67 (83) User Manual...
Page 68
For example, a sensor installed vertically (on top) on the NDE of a motor, would use: <01V NDE MTR=. Using this practice ensures the ability to easily locate a Position created for an Asset. 68 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
Page 69
Guidelines to help you name your Assets and Positions For a machine that is a motor-driven pump, there may be two sensors on the motor, and two sensors on the pump, which would look like the following in a hierarchy: SKF Axios 69 (83) User Manual Revision A...
APPENDIX D Gateway considerations Appendix D Gateway considerations When implementing SKF Axios on site, the gateway9s location is critical to ensure good communication with the sensors. The following information provides additional information to consider when determining the locations for gateway placement, and number of gateways needed.
When planning for gateways, consider possible work needed to install the gateways The number of sensors next to the gateway Possible Ethernet (RJ45) cabling, or Ethernet port to place at height Possible need for a PoE capable switch(s) or PoE injector(s) SKF Axios 71 (83) User Manual Revision A...
How to determine he components where SKF Axios should be installed The overall goal of SKF Axios is to identify changes in condition on your rotating equipment. These changes in condition may help with bringing attention to a developing issue with a machine or bring attention to a machine that will need planned maintenance.
This logic can also be used for Thermal routes, where we will focus on the motor, gearbox and the visible rollers and all electrical cabinets. Considerations for building an Asset list where SKF Axios is installed " Once the asset list file is filled, you can also create an installation SOP for your assets.
Page 74
APPENDIX E Scaling up at your facility SKF Axios Quotas 74 (83) SKF Axios User Manual Revision Letter A...
CAUTION! The SKF Axios Sensor devices can be placed on equipment outside; however, the SKF Axios Gateway must be located indoors as the power adapter is not intended for outdoor use. CAUTION! Do not open the device. Do not modify, alter, reverse engineer, tamper with, or repair the device.
Page 76
Service Your Device If you suspect the device is damaged, discontinue use immediately and contact SKF Technical Support. Contact details can be found here. Faulty service may void the warranty. USING THE DEVICE AROUND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES The device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency (RF) energy.
Page 77
In some areas, disposal of certain electronic devices is regulated. Dispose of or recycle the device in accordance with local laws and regulations. TERMS AND WARRANTY For legal terms and warranty information for SKF Axios Sensor, see SKF Reliability Systems General Conditions of Sales.
Use Responsibly. Before using SKF Axios Gateway device and its accessories, including the power adapter, read all instructions and safety information. While using SKF Axios Gateway, follow all instructions and heed all warnings. Keep this document for reference. PERSONAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN FIRE OR OTHER INJURY.
Page 79
Service Your Device If you suspect the device is damaged, discontinue use immediately and contact SKF Technical Support. Contact details can be found here. Faulty service may void the warranty. USING THE DEVICE AROUND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES The device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency (RF) energy. If not used in accordance with instructions, may cause interference to radio communications and electronic equipment.
Page 80
In some areas, disposal of certain electronic devices is regulated. Dispose of or recycle the device in accordance with local laws and regulations. TERMS AND WARRANTY For legal terms and warranty information for SKF Axios Gateway, see SKF Reliability Systems General Conditions of Sales.
Appendix H Ethernet Gateway safety and compliance Use Responsibly. Before using SKF Axios Gateway (Ethernet) device and its accessories, read all instructions and safety information. While using SKF Axios Gateway (Ethernet), follow all instructions and heed all warnings. Keep this document for reference.
Page 82
Service Your Device If you suspect the device is damaged, discontinue use immediately and contact SKF Technical Support. Contact details can be found here. Faulty service may void the warranty. USING THE DEVICE AROUND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES The device generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency (RF) energy.
Page 83
In some areas, disposal of certain electronic devices is regulated. Dispose of or recycle the device in accordance with local laws and regulations. TERMS AND WARRANTY For legal terms and warranty information for SKF Axios Gateway , see Reliability Systems General Conditions of Sales.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the Axios and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers