In vibration analysis, what kind of spectrum would indicate a healthy outer race?

A healthy outer race in vibration analysis is indicated by the absence of sidebands in the spectrum. When sidebands are present, they often suggest issues such as localized damage or wear on the outer race, which can lead to the development of faults.

The lack of sidebands signifies that the outer race is functioning properly and does not have any significant faults or irregularities affecting its operation. In a healthy outer race, one expects a clear spectrum with predominant frequencies reflecting normal operational behavior rather than any erratic patterns or additional frequency components that would imply distress.

Each of the other options indicates potential problems. For instance, the presence of cage rate or rate sidebands suggests a fault in the bearing, while broadband noise can indicate general wear and tear or other mechanical issues that compromise the integrity of the outer race. Therefore, recognizing the absence of sidebands is crucial for promoting effective maintenance and ensuring the longevity of mechanical components.