Advanced Vibration Diagnostics Using Case Studies (AVD)

Designed as a continuing education course for experienced vibration analysts (CAT II with appropriate experience, CAT III and CAT IV), reliability and maintenance professionals, structural engineers, and machine designers. This 4 ½-day course presents digital signal analysis and advanced vibration control techniques, together with natural frequency testing, experimental modal analysis (EMA) and operating deflection shape (ODS) testing.  Numerous in-depth case studies involving many different machine types will be used to reinforce principles showing how all these techniques, along with video amplification and experimental stress analysis complement each other.

The course content is an accumulation of nearly 50 years of Bob Sayer’s experiences, including numerous studies that were done with the late Art Crawford. The Course currently includes 43 case studies.  All Attendees will learn a wealth of information concerning equipment-specific diagnostics.

Monday 10-5, Tuesday 8-5, Wednesday 8-5, Thursday 8-5, Friday 8-3

Training Includes:

Day 1: Introduction to the basics of vibration diagnostics, including time waveform and frequency spectral analysis, and advanced diagnostic techniques including operating deflection shape (ODS), experimental modal analysis (EMA), vibration video amplification (VVA) and finite element analysis (FEA). Review of natural frequencies, mode shapes, and the concept of modal participation.

Day 2: Introduction to Resonance and how it can adversely affect the reliability of mechanical equipment. Introduction to Vibration Control Methods including resonance tuning. Review of the impact method (including the limitations thereof) and the use of variable speed data to determine natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping. Special considerations for Shop Testing versus Field Testing. Verification of Modal Data.

Day 3: Introduction to Operating Deflection Shape (ODS) analysis testing techniques, including common mistakes made when performing an ODS. Review of using ODS testing as a substitute for experimental modal testing; obtaining mode shapes with ODS data instead of modal data. Structural Dynamics of Machines on Resilient Mounts including fans and pumps on isolation bases, vibrating screens, shop testing of motors on resilient mounts, and rotors on oil film bearings.

Day 4: Using EMA/ODS/FEA to diagnose and correct vibration problems in rotating/reciprocating equipment (Fans, Pumps, Gearboxes, Mixers, Screens, Etc.) and fixed equipment (piping, ductwork, foundations, structures).

Day 5: Continuation of using EMA/ODS/FEA to diagnose and correct vibration problems in rotating/reciprocating equipment (Fans, Pumps, Gearboxes, Mixers, Screens, Etc.) and fixed equipment (piping, ductwork, foundations, structures).

Registration Fees:

Member: $2,125

Non-Member: $2,225

Includes Course Materials, Lunch, and Breaks

Cancellation Fees The cancellation of and transfer to a training course and certification exam will be honored, provided that written notification is received by the Institute office via e-mail or mail no later than ten (10) business days before the first day of the scheduled course.

Our cancellation fees are as follows:

Transfer to another training course (and certification exam, if applicable): $0

Cancellation without transfer to another course (and certification exam, if applicable) 10 or more days before first date of course: 10% of course (and exam, if applicable) cost.

Cancellation less than 10 days of first date of course (and certification exam, if applicable): $500 20% of course (and exam, if applicable) cost.

Absentees for the course will not receive a refund.  This cancellation policy supersedes all prior published information.  We appreciate that this is an important investment for you and your company and would like to accommodate your needs the best we can. If you have a concern, please call our office at 1-630-654-2254

If you would like materials shipped to you in advance of your course, there will be a non-refundable expedited materials fee of $100 and 50% deductible on the course registration fee if canceling the course after receiving the materials.

Instructor: Robert J. Sayer, PE

Location:

Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation

10622 Parkview Plaza Drive

Fort Wayne, IN 46845

Course Agenda: 

Monday 10-5, Tuesday 8-5, Wednesday 8-5, Thursday 8-5, Friday 8-3

3.6 CEUs

Registration Fees:

$2,150 USD Non-member ($2,050 VI Members)

Includes Course Materials, Breakfast, Lunch, and Breaks

To join as a member, and receive a discount, and a year of benefits, click HERE

Optional Certification Exam: A Vibration Analyst Certification Exams will need to be scheduled outside of this training agenda. (Course and Exam schedule are always subject to change based on scheduling or unforeseen circumstances)  Be sure to complete the CF009 Exam Application form prior to your exam.

Optional Certification Exam to be administered on the day AFTER the course.

Vibration Analyst Category I: $360

Vibration Analyst Category II: $410

Vibration Analyst Category III: $460

Vibration Analyst Category IV: $510

Balancing Field Specialist Exam: $360

Photography and Video Policy: 

By participating in the Vibration Institute events, we (VI) reserve the right to use any photograph/video taken for any of our in-person events or marketing platforms. This is not limited to but includes: promotional materials, website, social media, etc. 

Advanced Vibration Diagnostics Using Case Studies - Fort Wayne, IN

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  • Monday Apr 13 2026, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Tuesday Apr 14 2026, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Wednesday Apr 15 2026, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Thursday Apr 16 2026, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Friday Apr 17 2026, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation
    10622 Parkview Plaza Drive
    Fort Wayne, Indiana
    United States
    46845