Podcast- Mastering Advanced Vibration Techniques: From Modal Analysis to Motion Amplification

Posted on May 27, 2025

Hydro’s Glen Powell joined Plant Services’ chief editor Tom Wilk to talk about the evolving challenges of workforce development in the maintenance and reliability space. The conversation also touches on the role of emerging technologies like AI in reliability workflows and dives deep into vibration analysis, including its limitations and advanced applications for diagnosing issues like resonance.

Key Takeaways

Formal training alone isn’t enough—intentional, hands-on experience accelerates workforce readiness.
Bridging generational gaps requires clear career paths and trust in leadership follow-through.
AI tools should support, not replace, critical thinking and field expertise on the plant floor.
Modal analysis and motion amplification are powerful tools to diagnose and fix elusive resonance issues in aging equipment.

You can listen to the podcast below or browse all of Plant Services’ Great Question podcasts here.

Want to expand your knowledge? Explore Plant Services magazine or read our case studies focused on Hydro’s work in troubleshooting and vibration analysis.

Basic Hydraulics for BB5 (Barrel) Pumps- In-Person (Houston)

Join us at our HydroTex facility in LaPorte, TX for a free in-person training on basic hydraulics for BB5 (barrel) pumps. This one day seminar is designed to give operators, maintenance personnel, and engineers a practical understanding of BB5 (Barrel) pump performance and maintenance.

Attendees will receive a certificate for 8 PDH.

Essential Pump Training- In-Person (Chicago)

Join Hydro’s HydroAire 40th Street facility in Chicago for an Essential Pump Training that is a blend of classroom and hands-on instruction.

Classroom

Pump Fundamentals
Pump Curves, System Curves, and BEP
Failure Modes with Case Studies

Hands-On

OH1 (Overhung Foot Mounted End Suction)- Goulds 3196ST and Goulds 3700
BB1 (Split Case Double Suction)- Goulds 3405

Learn more about the details for this training here.

Hands-on Pump Training- In-Person (Denver)

Join Hydro Rocky Mountain for a three-day hands-on pump training.

Classroom modules will focus on an introduction to pump types, basic hydraulics, and inspection & rebuilding guidelines.

Hands-on modules include full-size models, including a Goulds 3405 BB1 pump, Goulds 6×7 MO VICX‐SD vertical pump, and Sulzer MSD BB3 pump.

Pump failure modes and case studies will be covered in the shop during the last day.

You can find more information on the curriculum here.

Wednesday Webinar: Understanding Variable Frequency Drives

Join Hydro for our September webinar on understanding variable frequency drives (VFDs). Join our Instructor, Brion Flaningam from ABB, as he explains when and why to use a VFD in your equipment. We’ll cover the basics of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), including definitions, theory, special features, and their benefits across various applications, with a special focus on pumping systems.