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This Advanced Reciprocating Engine Analysis course teaches attendees fault analysis and advanced troubleshooting using pressure, vibration, ultrasound, and crank angle measurements. Advanced diagnostic tools are covered in this class to deal with repeat failures associated with mechanical natural frequencies and pulsation driven failures. This course is intended for maintenance technicians and engineers who have significant experience with data collection and have performed reciprocating engine analysis for a minimum of 3 years.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of two or more years of mechanical technology or mechanical engineering at an accredited college or technical school is highly recommended for attendees. Attendees shall be able to use a scientific calculator and be familiar with the operation of personal computers.

Intermediate Reciprocating Engine Analysis – Level II class and a working knowledge of engine mechanics, thermodynamics, and ignition systems. Understanding of the fundamentals of the multiple data types utilized including shaft referenced speed and crank angle, pressure, vibration, ultrasound, and temperature. Minimum of 36 months of experience with reciprocating engine analysis.

Certification Exam: The exam is included in the cost of the course. 50 questions, 2-hour time limit, closed book, passing score is 70% correct.

Course Objectives

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

• Understand the thermochemistry of fuel-air mixtures and fundamentals of combustion in spark ignition and compression ignition engines
• Understand engine heat transfer
• Construct star diagrams of multi-cylinder engines
• Apply reciprocating engine machine theory and operation for advanced troubleshooting
• Set up advanced data types in portable analyzers and industry software
• Utilize advanced data formats including angular velocity, cascade, bode, orbits, and shaft centerline plots for signature analysis and fault recognition
• Understand the theory and troubleshoot MNF and TNF
• Analyze faults in ancillary rotating equipment using spectral and time waveform analysis
• Provide reports of fault diagnosis using industry software and custom reports
• Understand the requirement for setting up and maintaining and reciprocating engine condition monitoring program