Abstract

Laser-based sensors have a number of significant advantages over other sensors for monitoring of vibration. Proper control of vibration may prevent deformation of components, failure of machineries and also unwanted vibrational sound hazard (as an environmental remediation). Applications of laser with fibre-optic technologies are providing a new approach to vibration monitoring in electromechanical equipment. Evolution of vibration signature is a recognised hallmark of equipment degradation [1,2]. Optical fibre sensors using laser interferometry are particularly suited to this application because of their inherent electrical isolation, superb dielectric properties and immunity to electromagnetic interference.

© 1998 Optical Society of America