A review of induction motors signature analysis as a medium for faults detection

This paper is intended as a tutorial overview of induction motors signature analysis as a medium for fault detection. The purpose is to introduce in a concise manner the fundamental theory, main results, and practical applications of motor signature analysis for the detection and the localization of abnormal electrical and mechanical conditions that indicate, or may lead to, a failure of induction motors. The paper is focused on the so-called motor current signature analysis (MCSA) which utilizes the results of spectral analysis of the stator current. The paper is purposefully written without "state of the art" terminology for the benefit of practicing engineers in facilities today who may not be familiar with signal processing.