ISO 20816-1:2026

• Abstract:

  This document establishes general principles for the measurement and evaluation of vibration using measurements made on rotating or non-rotating parts of complete machines. It is applicable to vibration measurements on non-rotating parts and to both absolute and relative radial shaft vibration with regard to the monitoring of radial clearances, but does not apply to axial shaft vibration, unless otherwise stated. The evaluation criteria, which are presented in terms of both vibration magnitude and change in vibration, relate to both operational monitoring and acceptance tests. They have been provided primarily with regard to securing reliable, safe, long-term operation of the machine while minimizing any adverse effects on associated equipment. This document also gives guidance on setting operating limits. NOTE 1 The evaluation criteria for different machine types are included in other parts of the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series. NOTE 2 The term “shaft vibration” is used throughout the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series because, in most cases, vibration measurements are made on machine shafts. However, the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series are also applicable to measurements made on other rotating elements of the machine if such elements are found or known to be more suitable, provided that the guidelines set in this document are met. The evaluation criteria are only applicable to the vibration produced by the machine itself and not the vibration transmitted to it from outside. This document does not apply to torsional vibration. NOTE 3 For information regarding the evaluation of torsional vibration, see e.g. ISO 3046-5, ISO 22266-1 or VDI 2039.

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 27-Oct-2026
• ICS: 17.160 - Vibrations, shock and vibration measurements
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 108/SC 2 - Measurement and evaluation of mechanical vibration and shock as applied to machines, vehicles and structures
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 108/SC 2/WG 1 - Rotordynamics and vibration of machines
• Current Stage: 6060 - International Standard published
• Start Date: 28-Oct-2026
• Completion Date: 28-Oct-2026

• Revises: ISO 20816-1:2016 - Mechanical vibration — Measurement and evaluation of machine vibration — Part 1: General guidelines
• Effective Date: 29-Jun-2024

ISO 20816-1, published by ISO, gives general guidelines for measuring and evaluating vibration on complete machines from rotating and non-rotating parts. It is used for operational monitoring and acceptance testing, and it tells users how to choose measurement points, measurement quantities and evaluation criteria for machine-produced vibration.

What does ISO 20816-1 specify?

ISO 20816-1 sets out the general scope, measurement approach and evaluation framework for machine vibration. It covers vibration measured on rotating and non-rotating parts of complete machines, with a focus on radial shaft vibration and on vibration at bearings, housings and similar structural parts.

It excludes axial shaft vibration from its general application, and it does not address torsional vibration. The document also limits its evaluation criteria to vibration generated by the machine itself, not vibration transmitted from outside.

Annex	What it covers
Annex A	Explanation of measurement quantities and relationships between displacement, velocity and acceleration
Annex B	Methods for detecting problems in rolling bearings
Annex C	Guidelines for setting zone boundaries for vibration measured on non-rotating parts
Annex D	Vector analysis of change in vibration
Annex E	Methodology for selecting vibration measurements appropriate to the machine

The document is organized into clauses on scope, normative references, terms and definitions, measurements, instrumentation and evaluation criteria, followed by informative annexes that explain the supporting methods.

What are the key requirements of ISO 20816-1?

ISO 20816-1 is mainly a practical framework for choosing what to measure, where to measure it and how to judge the result. Its key requirements are spread across Clauses 4 to 6 and the informative annexes.

Measurement practice and instrumentation

• Clause 4 requires broad-band vibration measurements so the relevant frequency content of the machine is covered. In practice, this means the selected bandwidth must suit the machine type and the faults being watched.
• Clause 4 recognizes vibration on non-rotating parts, shaft relative vibration and shaft absolute vibration. For users, this means the measurement method must match the machine design and the reason for monitoring.
• Clause 4.3 states the usable quantities as displacement, velocity and acceleration, and notes that the quantity and unit must be clearly identified. This matters because the same machine can give very different-looking results depending on the quantity and scale used.
• Clause 4.3 also identifies preferred quantities: r.m.s. velocity for non-rotating parts and peak-to-peak displacement for shaft vibration. That choice supports consistent trending and comparison with the document's criteria.
• Clause 4.4 sets the preferred measurement positions and directions. Acceptance testing usually needs measurements in three mutually perpendicular directions at the bearing or support area, while routine monitoring often uses radial directions and, where relevant, axial measurements at thrust locations.
• Clause 4.4.2 places shaft probes near each bearing, aligned as closely as practicable to radial directions. This helps the measurement reflect actual shaft movement and reduces errors from poor probe placement or runout.
• Clause 4.5 and 4.6 tie acceptance testing to the actual support structure and agreed normal operating conditions. In practice, the machine should be evaluated under the conditions in which it is expected to run, because foundations, mounts and test beds can change the measured vibration.
• Clause 5 requires instrumentation suitable for the environment and aligned with ISO 2954 for non-rotating parts and ISO 10817-1 for rotating parts. Correct sensor mounting and the use of calibration and usable outputs matter because the result is only as reliable as the measurement chain.

Evaluation and limits

• Clause 6 uses two evaluation criteria. Criterion I judges the steady vibration magnitude; Criterion II judges a significant change from a reference value.
• For Criterion I, the document uses four zones, A to D. Zone B is generally acceptable for unrestricted long-term operation, Zone C is normally acceptable only for limited operation until corrective action can be planned, and Zone D indicates vibration severe enough to risk damage.
• Clause 6.3.2.5 makes clear that acceptance criteria are agreed between the manufacturer and customer. That means the zone boundaries guide acceptance, but they are not themselves a contract specification.
• Clause 6.4 defines operating limits as ALARM and TRIP. ALARM is a warning that action may be needed, while TRIP marks a level beyond which continued operation can cause damage.
• Clause 6.5 notes that vector changes at individual frequencies can matter even when broad-band vibration looks acceptable. This is important for diagnosis, because a small change in overall magnitude can hide a significant shift in phase or frequency content.
• Clause 4.9 classifies support structures as rigid or flexible, and Annex E helps select the most suitable measurement type from the machine dynamics. This matters because a flexible foundation, flexible shaft or stiff bearing system can make one measurement method more informative than another.

What terms does ISO 20816-1 define?

• shaft absolute vibration - vibration of rotating parts measured with respect to the absolute coordinate.
• shaft relative vibration - vibration of rotating parts measured with respect to the transducer support.
• pedestal vibration - vibration measured on the bearing pedestal or other non-rotating support part.
• seismic vibration - vibration measured on a non-rotating part.
• dynamic stiffness of bearing - bearing stiffness that includes damping and mass effects.
• dynamic stiffness of pedestal - stiffness of the bearing support structure, including damping and mass effects.
• operational monitoring - vibration measurements made during normal operation of a machine.

Who uses ISO 20816-1?

ISO 20816-1 is used by machine manufacturers, customers, suppliers and operators who need a common basis for vibration measurement and acceptance. It is also used by vibration engineers, condition monitoring teams, maintenance staff and quality personnel who compare measured vibration with agreed limits.

The document is relevant to rotating machinery such as turbines, compressors, generators, pumps, fans, gearboxes and machines with rolling bearings or journal bearings. It is especially useful when the team must decide whether to monitor non-rotating parts, shaft vibration or both.

What changed in ISO 20816-1 from the previous edition?

This second edition cancels and replaces ISO 20816-1:2016. The foreword states that the main changes are:

• the introduction was shortened;
• Clause 1 wording was aligned with ISO directives;
• Clause 2 references were updated;
• Clause 3 added terms and removed definitions from 4.3.1;
• 4.4.1 wording was aligned with ISO 20816-3;
• Figures 5 and 6 were updated;
• Clauses 4.8 and 4.9 were added from ISO/TR 19201;
• content of Annex B.4 was deleted and merged with Annex B.5;
• Figure C.1 was added and Section C.2 was removed;
• Annex E was added with content from ISO/TR 19201;
• the document was aligned with ISO 20816-3 and editorially revised;
• the bibliography was updated.

Which standards are used with ISO 20816-1?

Standard	What it contributes
ISO 2041	Vocabulary for mechanical vibration, shock and condition monitoring
ISO 2954	Requirements for instruments used to measure vibration severity on non-rotating parts
ISO 10817-1	Relative and absolute sensing of radial shaft vibration
ISO 5348	Mechanical mounting of accelerometers
ISO 13373 series	Vibration condition monitoring and diagnostics guidance
ISO 17359	General guidelines for condition monitoring and diagnostics
ISO 10816 series	Machine-specific vibration evaluation guidance for non-rotating parts
ISO 20816 series	Machine-specific vibration evaluation guidance that complements this part
ISO 3046-5, ISO 22266-1, VDI 2039	Related torsional vibration references named for further guidance

What does the ISO 20816-1 document contain?

ISO 20816-1 contains measurement procedures, recommended sensor positions, measurement directions and operating conditions for machine vibration work. It also includes general evaluation logic for vibration magnitude and for change in vibration, plus ALARM and TRIP concepts for operating limits.

The informative annexes add practical methods and examples. Annex A explains the relationships among displacement, velocity and acceleration, Annex B discusses rolling bearing detection methods, Annex C gives typical zone boundary guidance for non-rotating parts, Annex D explains vector change, and Annex E gives a method for selecting the measurement type from machine dynamics.

The document also includes figures showing preferred measurement locations on bearings, housings and shafts, as well as general zone-boundary and orbit-related illustrations. For users, that means the standard is not just a list of limits - it also shows how to take the measurements that the limits depend on.

International
Standard
ISO 20816-1
Second edition
Mechanical vibration —
2026-10
Measurement and evaluation of
machine vibration —
Part 1:
General guidelines
Vibrations mécaniques — Mesurage et évaluation des vibrations
de machines —
Partie 1: Lignes directrices générales
Reference number
© ISO 2026
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ii
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction .vii
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Measurements . 2
4.1 General .2
4.1.1 Overview .2
4.1.2 Vibration measurements . .2
4.1.3 Frequency range .2
4.2 Types of measurement.3
4.2.1 Vibration measurements on non-rotating parts .3
4.2.2 Shaft relative vibration measurements .3
4.2.3 Shaft absolute vibration measurements .3
4.3 Measurement parameters .3
4.3.1 Measurement quantities . . .3
4.3.2 Vibration magnitude .4
4.3.3 Vibration severity .4
4.4 Measurement positions and directions .5
4.4.1 Preferred measurement positions and directions on non-rotating parts .5
4.4.2 Preferred measurement positions on rotating shafts .7
4.5 Machine support structure for acceptance testing .10
4.5.1 General .10
4.5.2 In-situ tests .10
4.5.3 In a test facility .10
4.6 Machine operating conditions .11
4.7 Evaluation of vibration from other sources .11
4.8 Choice of measurement type .11
4.9 Classification according to support structure flexibility . 12
5 Instrumentation .12
6 Evaluation criteria .13
6.1 General . 13
6.1.1 Overview . 13
6.1.2 Types of measurement on rotating shafts . 13
6.2 Factors affecting evaluation criteria .14
6.3 Types of evaluation criteria .14
6.3.1 General .14
6.3.2 Criterion I: Vibration magnitude at rated speed under steady operation
conditions .14
6.3.3 Criterion II: Change in vibration magnitude .18
6.4 Operating limits .18
6.4.1 General .18
6.4.2 Setting of ALARMs .19
6.4.3 Setting of TRIPs .19
6.5 Additional factors .19
6.5.1 Vibration frequencies and vibration vectors .19
6.5.2 Vibration sensitivity of the machine.19
6.5.3 Methods for assessing the condition of rolling bearings . 20
Annex A (informative) Explanation of measurement quantities .21
Annex B (informative) Methods for detecting problems in rolling bearings .28

iii
Annex C (informative) Guidelines for setting zone boundaries for vibration measured on non-
rotating parts .30
Annex D (informative) Vector analysis of change in vibration .32
Annex E (informative) Methodology for selecting vibration measurements appropriate to the
machine .34
Bibliography .40

iv
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through
ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee
has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations,
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with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are described
in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the different types
of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the editorial rules of the
ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of any patent
rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or on the ISO list of
patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
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For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity assessment,
as well as information about ISO's adherence to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 108, Mechanical vibration, shock and condition
monitoring, Subcommittee SC 2, Measurement and evaluation of mechanical vibration and shock as applied to
machines, vehicles and structures.
This second edition of ISO 20816-1 cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 20816-1:2016), which has been
technically revised.
The main changes are as follows:
— Introduction was shortened;
— wording in Clause 1 was aligned with ISO directives;
— references in Clause 2 were updated;
— terms in Clause 3 were added and definitions in 4.3.1 removed;
— Figure 5 and Figure 6 were updated;
— 4.8 and 4.9 were added with content from ISO/TR 19201;
— content of B.4 was deleted and merged with B.5;
— Figure C.1 was added;
— C.2 was removed;
— Annex E was added with content from ISO/TR 19201;
— wording in the document was aligned with ISO 20816-3;
— Bibliography was updated;
— document editorially revised;
A list of all parts in the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series can be found on the ISO website.

v
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.

vi
Introduction
This document establishes general guidelines for the measurement and evaluation of mechanical machine
vibration, as measured on rotating and on non-rotating parts of complete machines (e.g. shafts or bearing
housings).
Recommendations for measurements and evaluation criteria pertaining to specific machine types are
provided in additional parts of the ISO 20816 series as they become available as a replacement of parts of
the ISO 10816 series.
For some machines, measurements made on non-rotating parts are sufficient to adequately characterize
their running conditions with respect to trouble-free operation. There are also machine types (e.g.
steam turbines, gas turbines and turbo compressors) which can have several modes of vibration in their
operating speed range, for which measurements on the structure (e.g. bearing housings) do not always fully
characterize the running condition of the machine, although such measurements are useful. Such machines
generally contain flexible rotor shaft systems and changes in the vibration condition can be detected
more effectively by measurements on the rotating elements. Machines having stiff and/or heavy housings
in comparison to the rotor mass and/or stiffness are typical of those classes of machines for which shaft
vibration measurements are often more appropriate.
Vibration measurements are used for purposes, ranging from routine operational monitoring and acceptance
tests to advanced experimental testing as well as diagnostic and analytical investigations. These various
measurement objectives lead to many differences in the methods of interpretation and evaluation used. To
limit the number of these differences, this document is designed to provide guidelines primarily for use in
operational monitoring and acceptance tests.
Three primary vibration quantities (displacement, velocity and acceleration) are defined and their
advantages and disadvantages are given.

vii
International Standard ISO 20816-1:2026(en)
Mechanical vibration — Measurement and evaluation of
machine vibration —
Part 1:
General guidelines
1 Scope
This document establishes general principles for the measurement and evaluation of vibration using
measurements made on rotating or non-rotating parts of complete machines. It is applicable to vibration
measurements on non-rotating parts and to both absolute and relative radial shaft vibration with regard
to the monitoring of radial clearances, but does not apply to axial shaft vibration, unless otherwise stated.
The evaluation criteria, which are presented in terms of both vibration magnitude and change in vibration,
relate to both operational monitoring and acceptance tests. They have been provided primarily with regard
to securing reliable, safe, long-term operation of the machine while minimizing any adverse effects on
associated equipment. This document also gives guidance on setting operating limits.
NOTE 1 The evaluation criteria for different machine types are included in other parts of the ISO 10816 series and
the ISO 20816 series.
NOTE 2 The term “shaft vibration” is used throughout the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series because, in
most cases, vibration measurements are made on machine shafts. However, the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816
series are also applicable to measurements made on other rotating elements of the machine if such elements are found
or known to be more suitable, provided that the guidelines set in this document are met.
The evaluation criteria are only applicable to the vibration produced by the machine itself and not the
vibration transmitted to it from outside.
This document does not apply to torsional vibration.
NOTE 3 For information regarding the evaluation of torsional vibration, see e.g. ISO 3046-5, ISO 22266-1 or
VDI 2039.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 2041, Mechanical vibration, shock and condition monitoring — Vocabulary
ISO 2954, Mechanical vibration of rotating and reciprocating machinery — Requirements for instruments for
measuring vibration severity
ISO 5348, Mechanical vibration and shock — Mechanical mounting of accelerometers
ISO 10817-1, Rotating shaft vibration measuring systems — Part 1: Relative and absolute sensing of radial
vibration
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 2041 and the following apply.

ISO and IEC maintain terminoly databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
3.1
shaft absolute vibration
absolute shaft vibration
vibration of rotating parts measured with respect to the absolute coordinate
3.2
shaft relative vibration
relative shaft vibration
vibration of rotating parts measured with respect to the transducer support
3.3
pedestal vibration
vibration measured on the pedestal bearing (a non-rotating part)
3.4
seismic vibration
vibration measured on a non- rotating part
3.5
dynamic stiffness of bearing
stiffness of the bearing part including damping and mass effects
3.6
dynamic stiffness of pedestal
stiffness of the bearing support structure including damping and mass effects
3.7
operational monitoring
measurements made during normal operation of a machine
4 Measurements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Overview
Clause 4 describes the measurements, procedures and operating conditions recommended for assessing
machine vibration. The guidelines given enable the evaluation of vibration in accordance with the general
criteria and principles given in Clause 6.
The ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series enable the use of different measurement quantities and
methods provided that they are well-defined and their advantages and disadvantages are set out so that the
interpretation of the measurements is well-understood.
4.1.2 Vibration measurements
It is common practice to measure machine vibration on non-rotating parts or to measure shaft relative
vibration, or both. The measurement type to be used for the protection system is usually based on the
experience of the machine manufacturer.
4.1.3 Frequency range
Vibration measurement shall be broad-band such that the frequency spectrum of the machine is adequately
covered.
The frequency range depends on the machine type being considered (e.g. the frequency range necessary to
assess the integrity of rolling bearings should include frequencies higher than those used on machines with
fluid-film bearings).
For guidelines for instrumentation frequency ranges for specific machine classes see appropriate parts of
the ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series.
NOTE 1 In the past, broad-band measurements in the range from 10 Hz to 1 000 Hz were the intended metric for
full-load acceptance tests. This does not always meet the requirements of a condition monitoring scheme and can be
modified for the purposes of vibration monitoring and diagnostics.
NOTE 2 For vibration condition monitoring and diagnostics of machines see ISO 13373 series.
For certain machine types (e.g. gearboxes and rolling bearings) it can be appropriate to use a different
frequency range for acceptance testing.
4.2 Types of measurement
4.2.1 Vibration measurements on non-rotating parts
Vibration measurements on non-rotating parts are usually taken using a sensor which measures the absolute
velocity or acceleration of the structural parts on which it is mounted (e.g. the bearing housing).
4.2.2 Shaft relative vibration measurements
Shaft relative vibration measurements are usually taken using a non-contacting probe which senses the
displacement between the shaft and the structural part on which it is mounted (e.g. the bearing housing).
NOTE Displacement probes (e.g. non-contacting eddy current sensors) measure the displacement of the rotor or
shaft. The AC portion of the signal is directly proportional to the shaft relative vibration.
4.2.3 Shaft absolute vibration measurements
Shaft absolute vibration measurements are taken using either
a) a shaft-riding probe on which a vibration sensor is mounted so that it measures shaft absolute vibration
directly, or
b) a non-contacting displacement probe which measures shaft relative vibration in combination with a
seismic vibration sensor which measures the housing vibration. Both transducers shall be mounted
close together such that they undergo the same vibration in the direction of measurement. Their
conditioned outputs are summed to provide a measurement of the shaft absolute vibration. To avoid
incorrect results, the same time reference shall be used for the outputs from both the seismic and non-
contacting displacement probes (i.e. synchronous sampling). If this cannot be achieved, the magnitude
of the resulting error shall be assessed.
4.3 Measurement parameters
4.3.1 Measurement quantities
For the purposes of this document, these measurement quantities can be used:
a) displacement measured in µm;
b) velocity measured in mm/s;
c) acceleration measured in m/s .
The use, application and limitations of these quantities are discussed in Clause 6.

There is no simple relationship between broad-band acceleration, velocity and displacement; nor is there
between peak (0–p), peak-to-peak (p–p), root-mean-square (r.m.s.) and average magnitudes of vibration.
The reasons for this are briefly discussed in A.1, which also defines some precise relationships between the
quantities when the harmonic content of the vibration waveform is known.
To avoid confusion and to enable correct interpretation, the measurement quantity and its unit shall
be clearly identified (e.g. peak-to-peak displacement in µm, r.m.s. velocity in mm/s or peak-to-peak shaft
absolute displacement in µm).
NOTE Vibration is a vector quantity and therefore, when comparing two different vibration measurements, it can
be necessary to consider the phase angle between them (see Annex D).
The preferred measurement quantity for the measurement of vibration of non-rotating parts is r.m.s.
velocity while the preferred measurement quantity for the measurement of shaft vibration is peak-to-peak
displacement.
It shall be clearly indicated in measurements taken whether shaft displacement magnitudes are relative or
absolute.
Relative and absolute displacements are further defined by several different displacement quantities, each
of which is in widespread use. These include:
maximum shaft displacement in the plane of measurement, measured from its time integrated
s
max
mean position, see Formula (A.12);
peak-to-peak shaf t displacement in the direction of measurement def ined as
s
(p–p)
s = max {s , s }; and
(p–p) A,(p–p) B,(p–p)
s maximum shaft peak-to-peak displacement in the plane of measurement.
(p–p),max
Any of these displacement quantities may be used for the measurement of shaft vibration. The relationships
between these quantities are shown in Figure A.3.
4.3.2 Vibration magnitude
The result of measurements made with an instrument which complies with the requirements of Clause 5 is
the vibration magnitude at a specific measurement position and direction.
It is common practice, when evaluating the broad-band vibration of rotating machines, to consider the
r.m.s. magnitude of velocity since it can be related to the vibration energy. However, other quantities (e.g.
displacement or acceleration and peak magnitudes instead of r.m.s. magnitudes) can be preferred. In this
case, alternative evaluation criteria, which are not necessarily simply related to r.m.s. magnitudes, are
required.
For shaft vibration measurement, it is common practice to consider peak-to-peak magnitudes.
4.3.3 Vibration severity
Usually, measurements are made at various measurement positions and in one, two or three measurement
directions, leading to a set of different vibration magnitudes. The maximum broad-band magnitude
measured under the agreed machine support structure and operating conditions is defined as the vibration
severity (see also ISO 2041).
For most machine types, one value of vibration severity characterizes the vibratory state of that machine.
However, for some machines, this approach is inadequate and the vibration severity shall then be assessed
independently for measurement positions at several locations.

4.4 Measurement positions and directions
4.4.1 Preferred measurement positions and directions on non-rotating parts
Measurements on non-rotating parts shall be taken on the bearings, the bearing support structure, the
bearing housing or other structural parts which significantly respond to the dynamic forces transmitted
from the rotating elements at the bearing locations and characterize the overall vibration of the machine.
Typical measurement positions are shown in Figure 1 to Figure 5.
To determine the vibrational severity at each measurement position, it is necessary to take measurements
in three mutually perpendicular directions. The full complement of measurements represented in Figure 1
to Figure 5 is generally only required for acceptance tests.
The requirements for operational monitoring are usually met by performing one or both measurements
in the radial direction (usually taken in the horizontal/transverse and/or vertical directions). These can
be supplemented by a vibration measurement in the axial direction. The severity of an axial measurement
is only evaluated at locations representative of thrust bearings where direct axial dynamic forces are
transmitted.
A single radial vibration sensor may be used on a bearing housing or pedestal in place of the more typical
pair of orthogonal sensors if it is known to provide adequate information about the machine’s vibration
magnitude. The positioning of the sensor shall be such that it provides a reasonable approximation of the
maximum magnitude in that plane.
When a single triaxial accelerometer is used, only those axes which are in line with the measurement
positions defined in this document shall be compared with the guidelines given in other parts of the
ISO 20816 series. In particular, a triaxial measurement taken at the top of the bearing is likely to over-
estimate axial and transverse vibration magnitudes. The magnitudes remain useful for trending purposes
as part of a condition monitoring programme.
When a vibration sensor is attached using a bracket, it shall be confirmed that no resonances of the bracket
are affecting the measurement.
Detailed recommendations for specific machine types are provided in the additional parts of the
ISO 10816 series and the ISO 20816 series.
Figure 1 — Preferred measurement positions and directions for pedestal bearings

Figure 2 — Preferred measurement positions and directions for bearing housings
Figure 3 — Preferred measurement positions and directions for machines
Figure 4 — Preferred measurement positions and directions for reciprocating engines close to the
bearing locations
Figure 5 — Preferred measurement positions and directions for vertical machine sets
4.4.2 Preferred measurement positions on rotating shafts
4.4.2.1 General
For the measurements on rotating shafts, the displacement probes shall be mounted at positions such that
the radial movement of the shaft at positions of importance can be assessed. It is recommended that, for both
relative and absolute measurements, two probes shall be located at, or adjacent to each machine bearing
(see Figure 6). They shall be radially mounted in the same plane perpendicular to the shaft axis or as close
as is practicable, with their axes within ±5° of a radial line. A pair of probes shall be mounted 90° ± 5° apart
from each other on the same bearing half and the positions chosen shall be, if possible, the same at each
bearing (see Figure 7).
A single displacement probe may be used at each measurement plane instead of the more typical pair of
orthogonal probes if that is known to provide adequate information regarding shaft vibration.
The positioning of the probe shall be such that it provides a reasonable approximation of the maximum
magnitude in that plane.
It is recommended that special measurements are made to determine the total non-vibration runout, caused
by shaft surface metallurgical non-homogeneities, local residual magnetism and shaft mechanical runout.
For anisotropic rotors (e.g. two-pole generators) the effect of gravity can cause a false runout signal.
Key
1 signal conditioning units
2 non-contacting displacement probes
3 shaft
4 bearing housings
5 bearings
a
To signal processing.
Figure 6 — Preferred measurement positions on rotating shafts
Key
1 signal conditioning units
2 shaft
3 non-contacting displacement probes
a
To signal processing.
Figure 7 — Preferred measurements positions on rotating shafts
4.4.2.2 Measurement positions for shaft relative vibration
Non-contacting displacement probes used to make shaft relative vibration measurements are usually
mounted in tapped holes in the bearing housing or in rigid brackets adjacent to the bearing housing or
bearing shell. Where the probes are mounted in the bearing, they shall be located so as not to interfere

with the lubrication pressure wedge. However, special arrangements for mounting probes in other axial
measurement positions may be made, but different vibration criteria for assessment shall then be used. For
bracket-mounted probes, the bracket shall not have natural frequencies which adversely affect the capability
of the probe to measure the shaft relative vibration.
The surface of the shaft at the measurement position, considering the total axial float of the shaft under all
thermal conditions, shall be smooth and free from any geometric discontinuities (e.g. keyways, lubrication
passages and threads), metallurgical non-homogeneities and local residual magnetism which can cause false
signals. Under certain circumstances, an electroplated or metallized shaft surface is acceptable, but note
that the calibration can be affected. It is recommended that the total combined electrical and mechanical
runout, as measured by the displacement probe, does not exceed 25 % of the acceptable displacement
specified in 6.3.2.2 or 6 μm, whichever is greater. For measurements made on machines already in service,
where provision was not originally made for shaft vibration measurements, it is sometimes necessary to use
other runout criteria.
4.4.2.3 Measurement positions for shaft absolute vibration using combined vibration sensors and
non-contacting displacement probes
If a combination of vibration sensors and non-contacting displacement probes is used, the shaft absolute
vibration is obtained by
a) integrating the signal from the vibration sensor to convert the acceleration or velocity output to
displacement, and
b) summing the raw time domain displacement outputs from both sensors.
To avoid obtaining incorrect results, the same time reference shall be used for the outputs from both the
seismic and non-contacting displacement probes (i.e. synchronous sampling).
The mounting and other requirements for non-contacting displacement probes are specified in 4.4.2.2. In
addition, the vibration sensor shall be rigidly mounted to the machine structure (e.g. the bearing housing)
close to the non-contacting displacement probe so that both transducers undergo the same vibration of the
support structure in the direction of measurement. The sensitive axes of the probe and vibration sensor shall
be parallel, so that their summed, conditioned signals result in an accurate measure of the shaft absolute
vibration (see Figure 8).
Accelerometers for vibration measurements on non-rotating parts shall be mounted in accordance with
ISO 5348.
NOTE In the past, shaft absolute vibration measurements have also been performed using a shaft-riding
mechanism with a vibration sensor.

Key
1 signal conditioning units
2 shaft
3 non-contacting displacement probes
4 vibration sensors
a
To signal processing.
Figure 8 — Mounting of non-contacting displacement probes and seismic probes for the
measurement of shaft absolute vibration
4.5 Machine support structure for acceptance testing
4.5.1 General
The acceptance criteria shall be agreed between the customer and the machine manufacturer.
4.5.2 In-situ tests
When acceptance testing is carried out in-situ, the support structure supplied for the machine shall be used.
In this case, the test shall be carried out when all the major components of the machine and structure have
been installed.
Comparisons of vibration for machines of the same type but installed on different foundations or sub-
foundations may only be made if the foundations concerned have similar dynamic characteristics.
4.5.3 In a test facility
There are machines for which, because of economic or other reasons, acceptance testing is carried out
on a test bed which can have different support structure characteristics from those on site. The support
structure can significantly affect the measured vibration and every effort shall be made to confirm that the
natural frequencies of the complete test arrangement do not coincide with the rotational frequencies of the
machine or with any of its significant harmonics.
The test arrangement usually meets these requirements if the vibration magnitude measured in the
horizontal and vertical directions at the machine feet, or at the base frame near the bearing support
structure or stator feet, does not exceed 50 % of the vibration magnitude measured in the same measurement

direction at that bearing. Additionally, the test arrangement shall not cause a substantial change in any of
the natural frequencies.
If a significant support structural resonance is present during acceptance testing and it cannot be eliminated,
the vibration acceptance test shall be carried out on the fully installed machine in-situ.
For some classes of machine (e.g. small electrical machines), acceptance tests can be carried out when they
are supported by a resilient system (see e.g. IEC 60034-14). In this case, all the rigid-body mode frequencies
of the machine on its support structure shall be <50 % of the lowest significant excitation frequency of the
machine. Appropriate support conditions can be achieved by mounting the machine on a resilient support
baseplate or by free suspension on a soft spring.
4.6 Machine operating conditions
Vibration measurements shall be made after achieving the agreed normal operating conditions (e.g. rated
speed, load, temperature pressure, etc.). Vibration measurements that are taken under other machine
operating conditions are not applicable for evaluation in accordance with Clause 6.
4.7 Evaluation of vibration from other sources
If the measured vibration magnitude exceeds the recommended Zone B/C boundary, it can be necessary
to take measurements of environmental vibration with the machine shut down to confirm that this is not
contributing significantly to the measured vibration magnitude. Where possible, steps shall be taken to
reduce the magnitude of environmental vibration if it is >1/3 of the Zone B/C boundary.
4.8 Choice of measurement type
In this document, guidelines are provided for measurement on both rotating and non-rotating parts. The
choice of which measurement type to use depends upon the characteristics of the machine and the faults
which need to be detected.
The advantages or disadvantages of vibration measurements on rotating or non-rotating parts shall be
considered based upon:
a) Machine speed and highest frequency of interest:
Measurements taken on non-rotating parts are more sensitive to higher frequencies than measurements
taken on rotating parts;
b) Bearing type:
Rolling bearings have very small clearances and transmit shaft vibration effectively into their housings.
Therefore, measurements taken on non-rotating parts are usually sufficient to enable effective vibration
monitoring and machine assessment. Journal bearings provide high damping and larger clearances so
shaft vibration is often a useful additional parameter to measure;
c) Machine type:
Machines with internal clearances comparable to the vibration magnitude can require the measurement
of shaft relative vibration for protection purposes (see Annex C). Monitoring of components that
generate multiples of rotational speed (e.g. vanes, gear teeth [including gear pumps], blades, rotor bars)
benefit from the higher frequency range available with measurements taken on non-rotating parts;
d) Ratio of shaft mass to pedestal mass:
Light shafts in heavy pedestals transmit little vibration into the bearing housing, so shaft relative
vibration measurements provide a better indication of machine behaviour;

e) Shaft flexibility:
Shaft relative vibration measurements provide a more sensitive indication of vibration severity in
machines with flexible shafts;
f) Support structure flexibility:
Flexible support structures lead to a higher vibration response of non-rotating parts;
g) Experience:
Where a large body of experience exists relating to one particular measurement type, it is useful to
continue to use it in similar situations.
For more detailed information on the choice of the appropriate measurement method see Annex E and
ISO 13373-1. Considerations relating to ease of access, longevity of sensors and cost of installation are also
relevant to the final decision (see ISO 17359).
4.9 Classification according to support structure flexibility
Two classes are used to denote the support structure flexibility in specified directions:
a) rigid;
b) flexible.
These support structure conditions are determined by the relationship between the machine and foundation
flexibilities. If the lowest natural frequency of the system exceeds the excitation frequency by >25 % then
the machine may be considered rigid.
The excitation frequency is usually related to rotational speed, but significant other excitations (e.g. vane
passing or gear mesh) can be important. Machines on anti-vibration mounts shall be classified as flexible.
It is possible for machines to be rigid in one direction and flexible in another (e.g. pedestal bearings tend to
vibrate much more in the transverse direction than in the vertical direction).
If the class of the machine support structure cannot be readily determined from drawings and calculation, it
can be determined by testing, see also Annex E.
5 Instrumentation
The instrumentation used shall be designed to operate satisfactorily in the environment for which it is
to be used (e.g. with respect to temperature and humidity). Specifications for instruments for measuring
vibration on non-rotating parts shall be in accordance with the requirements of ISO 2954. Instruments for
measuring vibration on rotating parts shall be in accordance with the requirements of ISO 10817-1.
For measurement on non-rotating parts, the vibration sensor shall be correctly mounted. It may not, as far
as reasonably practicable, affect the vibration response characteristics of the machine. The requirements for
mounting accelerometers on the machine described in ISO 5348 shall be followed. These are also applicable,
in principle, to the mounting of velocity transducers.
Instrumentation can provide multiple methods to deliver a measurement value. The acceptance criteria
in this document are based on r.m.s. velocity in mm/s for measurements on non-rotating parts and peak-
to-peak displacement in µm for measurements on rotating parts. The acceptance criteria shall be scaled
suitably to match the units in common use at the site, using the same assumptions as programmed into the
distributed control systems. The assumptions are based on the
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