ISO 18436-2: Condition monitoring and diagnostics of machines – Requirements for qualification and assessment of personnel – Part 2: Vibration condition monitoring and diagnostics

Summary

ISO 18436-2 is the globally recognized standard for the training, qualification, and certification of vibration analysis professionals. It ensures that personnel performing machinery vibration measurements and analysis have the required knowledge and skills to do so competently. The standard defines a four-category system of certification, with each category representing a progressively higher level of expertise, from a basic data collector to an expert diagnostician and program leader. It provides a clear, verifiable framework for employers to assess the competency of analysts and for individuals to advance their careers.

Table of Contents (Conceptual Structure)

The standard is structured to provide a clear pathway for professional development, specifying the responsibilities, required knowledge, training, and experience for each level of certification:

1. 1. Category I: Data Collector

   This is the foundational, entry-level certification for personnel who are new to vibration monitoring. The standard defines the role of a Category I individual as someone who is qualified to perform basic, single-channel vibration measurements according to a pre-established route. Their primary responsibilities include: operating a portable data collector, correctly identifying measurement points on a machine as defined by the route, and properly mounting the sensor (e.g., magnet or probe) to acquire clean, repeatable data. They are trained to recognize poor data quality due to sensor or cable issues and to verify that the collected data is within expected ranges. A key skill is the ability to compare simple broadband vibration readings against pre-set alarm levels (e.g., those from ISO 10816) to determine if a machine’s condition is “Normal” or requires further investigation. While they are not expected to perform diagnostics, they are the front-line troops of a CBM program, responsible for gathering the high-quality, consistent data upon which all subsequent analysis depends.

2. 2. Category II: Vibration Analyst

   This certification is considered the industry standard for a professional vibration analyst. A Category II analyst possesses a significantly deeper level of knowledge and skill than a Category I technician. They are qualified not only to collect data but also to perform detailed analysis and diagnostics on a wide range of common machinery. Their responsibilities include selecting the appropriate measurement technique and sensor for a given task, setting up the data collector with the correct parameters (Fmax, resolution, averaging), and analyzing single-channel FFT spectra, time waveforms, and phase measurements. A key competency for Category II is the ability to diagnose common machinery faults such as unbalance, misalignment, mechanical looseness, rolling element bearing defects, and basic gear issues. They are also expected to be able to perform basic single-plane balancing of rotors in the field.

3. 3. Category III: Senior Vibration Analyst

   A Category III certified analyst is recognized as a senior technician and a leader within a condition monitoring team. This advanced certification requires a deep theoretical knowledge and extensive practical experience. A Category III analyst is responsible for diagnosing the full range of complex machinery faults, including issues with journal bearings, flexible rotors, resonance, and complex gear systems. They are proficient in advanced diagnostic techniques such as two-channel FFT analysis, Frequency Response Function (FRF) measurements (bump tests), and Operating Deflection Shape (ODS) analysis. Beyond diagnostics, their role often involves program management responsibilities, such as establishing and managing a condition monitoring program, setting alarm limits and analysis criteria, and providing technical guidance, training, and mentorship to Category I and II personnel. They act as a key technical resource for complex and critical machinery problems.

4. 4. Category IV: Master Vibration Analyst

   This is the highest level of certification, representing the pinnacle of expertise in machinery diagnostics. A Category IV analyst is a recognized leader and innovator in the field. They possess a deep and fundamental understanding of the theoretical principles of vibration, signal processing, and rotor dynamics. Their responsibilities go far beyond routine diagnostics; they are capable of developing and validating new diagnostic techniques, diagnosing the most complex and subtle machinery problems, and understanding the intricate mathematical relationships between signal processing parameters (e.g., the effects of different windowing functions). They are experts in advanced diagnostic tools like modal analysis and finite element analysis (FEA). A Category IV analyst typically serves as the ultimate technical authority for a corporate-wide condition monitoring program, mentoring analysts at all other levels, and providing strategic direction for the application of diagnostic technologies.

5. 5. Eligibility and Examination Requirements:

   To ensure a standardized level of competency, this final section of the standard lays out the strict prerequisites for certification at each level. For each of the four categories, it specifies the minimum required duration of formal classroom training (e.g., 38 hours for Category II) and, critically, the minimum number of months of verifiable, hands-on practical experience in the field (e.g., 18 months for Category II). The requirements are progressive, meaning a candidate must meet the training and experience requirements for each lower level before proceeding to the next. The standard also defines the structure of the certification examinations themselves, specifying the number of multiple-choice questions for each category, the duration of the exam, and the minimum score required to pass. This rigorous combination of mandated training, practical experience, and a standardized examination ensures that an ISO-certified analyst has a proven and reliable level of skill and knowledge.

Key Concepts

• Standardized Competency: The primary purpose of the standard is to create a uniform, global benchmark for what a vibration analyst should know and be able to do at different levels of their career.
• Progressive Skill Path: The four-category system provides a clear roadmap for individuals, showing them what they need to learn and experience to advance from a beginner to an expert.
• Separation of Training and Certification: While training is required, the standard is focused on the *certification* process, which involves passing a rigorous examination to prove competence. Training bodies prepare candidates, while assessment bodies conduct the exams.
• Global Recognition: Certification to ISO 18436-2 is recognized worldwide and is often a requirement for jobs in reliability engineering and predictive maintenance.

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