If a high amplitude peak is observed at 2x during analysis, which of these could be a potential cause?

When a high amplitude peak is observed at 2x during vibration analysis, it indicates a frequency component that is twice the fundamental rotation frequency of the machine. This specific frequency doubling can often be associated with angular misalignment. When misalignment occurs, it creates additional vibrational components as the machine components do not operate in perfect alignment, which adds dynamic forces that can resonate at frequencies related to the rotational speed of the equipment.

In this context, angular misalignment leads to the creation of harmonics in the vibration signature, with the 2x frequency peak being a common harmonic observed when the shaft is not properly aligned. As the components attempt to compensate for the misalignment, they generate forces that manifest as increased vibration, particularly at these harmonic frequencies which can be identified through spectrum analysis.

Other potential causes listed, such as simple imbalance, wear in the sensor, or excessive lubrication, generally produce different types of vibration patterns or frequency components that do not typically concentrate at 2x the speed. For example, imbalance predominantly generates peaks at the fundamental frequency, and sensor wear could lead to noise instead of distinct peaks. Excessive lubrication does not usually create specific harmonic frequencies but rather affects the operational characteristics of the equipment. Thus, the presence of a high amplitude peak