When assessing a ship's vibration problem, care should be taken to give due consideration to the symptoms. For example, the noise can often be very obvious and irritating, but may be nothing more than sloppy-fitted suspension elements or loose gear rattling in response to normal vibration levels. Other sounds such as the rumble of a reduction gear or the squeaking of a bearing can be very revealing and significant. The same is true for vibrations that can be seen or felt. A vibration amplitude that can be seen on a light panel or handrail may not be serious. However, if it involves a rotating machine or a large structural element, it can be very serious.

On these pages you will find information to help you understand how the system behaves with regard to ship vibration and specific approaches to the various corrective actions that can be considered for local vibration, hull and machinery vibration.