What is condition monitoring?

Condition monitoring (CM) is the process of measuring specific parameters of machinery (vibration, temperature, oil condition, etc.) to identify changes that indicate developing faults. It enables predictive maintenance — repairing equipment based on actual condition rather than fixed time intervals.

What does ISO 17359 cover?

ISO 17359 provides guidelines for the general procedures of condition monitoring and diagnostics of machines. It covers the process of establishing a CM program, selecting monitoring methods, setting alarm criteria, and determining diagnostic procedures.

Which monitoring method is best for bearing faults?

Vibration analysis is the primary method for bearing fault detection. Techniques include envelope analysis (high-frequency demodulation), shock pulse measurement (SPM), and acoustic emission. Oil analysis (particle counting, ferrography) provides complementary information.

When should I use thermography vs vibration analysis?

Vibration analysis excels at detecting mechanical faults (unbalance, misalignment, bearing wear, gear defects). Thermography is best for electrical faults (loose connections, overloaded circuits), insulation problems, and thermal anomalies. Many programs use both techniques together.

What is motor current signature analysis (MCSA)?

MCSA analyzes the current waveform of an electric motor to detect rotor bar defects, air gap eccentricity, and load-related faults. It can be done non-invasively using a current clamp on the motor supply cable, making it useful for motors in hazardous or difficult-to-access locations.

Free Engineering Tool

Condition Monitoring Method Selector

Select the right condition monitoring technique per ISO 17359. Choose machine type and fault to detect — get recommended methods, sensors, and parameters.

ISO 17359Predictive MaintenanceCBM

Machine Type

Fault to Detect

Common scenarios

Recommended Methods

Condition Monitoring Techniques

Method	Standards	Best For
Vibration Analysis	ISO 10816, ISO 20816	Unbalance, misalignment, bearing, gear, looseness
Thermography	ISO 18434	Electrical faults, insulation, overheating, steam traps
Oil Analysis	ISO 4406, ISO 4407	Bearing wear, contamination, gear wear
Acoustic Emission	ISO 22096	Early bearing faults, crack detection, leaks
Motor Current Analysis	IEEE 519	Rotor bar defects, eccentricity, electrical faults
Ultrasound	—	Leaks, bearing lubrication, electrical discharge

ISO 17359 recommends selecting monitoring methods based on the specific fault type, machine criticality, and cost-effectiveness. A combination of methods provides the most reliable fault detection.

Condition Monitoring Method Selector | ISO 17359

Published by Nikolai Shelkovenko on February 15, 2026 February 15, 2026

Recommended Methods

Condition Monitoring Techniques