Abstract: A method of determining bearing preload by frequency measurement, the method including the steps of: providing a machine assembly including a bearing, a plurality of sensors in communication with the machine assembly, and a processor in communication with the plurality of sensors, measuring the following related frequencies of the machine assembly including the bearing with the processor, a noise floor energy, a broadband energy, enveloping harmonics, and an overall vibration energy, obtaining a numerical relationship by spectral analysis for each of the related frequencies and storing them into a memory, comparing the numerical relationship stored in memory for each of the related frequencies to a predetermined baseline value. A match between the numerical relationship for each of the stored frequency and the predetermined baseline value indicates a correct preload has been determined. Also, a system for carrying out the method.

Abstract: A method of determining bearing preload by frequency measurement, the method including the steps of: providing a machine assembly including a bearing, a plurality of sensors in communication with the machine assembly, and a processor in communication with the plurality of sensors, measuring the following related frequencies of the machine assembly including the bearing with the processor; a noise floor energy, a broadband energy, enveloping harmonics, and an overall vibration energy, obtaining a numerical relationship by spectral analysis for each of the related frequencies and storing them into a memory, comparing the numerical relationship stored in memory for each of the related frequencies to a predetermined baseline value. A match between the numerical relationship for each of the stored frequency and the predetermined baseline value indicates a correct preload has been determined. Also, a system for carrying out the method.