Four main methods are used for attaching sensors to monitoring locations in predictive maintenance. They are stud mounted, adhesive mounted, magnetically mounted and the use of probe tips, or stingers. Each method affects the high frequency response of the accelerometer. The sensors should be mounted as closely as possible to the load Zones, which is the bearing location in most cases.
The closer you put your sensor to the machine, the better it senses the machine vibrations. Accelerometers should be mounted onto a surface that is free from dirt and grease. As a rule of thumb, the closer you put your sensor to the machine, the better it senses the vibrations. This means that the type of mounting accessory used affects the measurement quality, depending on its type and size, and how well vibrations can be propagated through it.
The sensor should be mounted in a location that minimizes the vibration transmission route through the machine. Avoid mounting the sensor on thin sections or vibration free areas (antinodes). There are multiple mounting configurations that are used to couple the sensors to the machine surface.
