Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About PRETECT
Who provides Maintenance, Testing and Engineering Services in New York City, New Jersey, Boston, and Washington DC?
Companies looking for maintenance, testing, engineering, vibration analysis, Motion Amplification®, TAB, and reliability services in NYC and Mid-Atlantic regions often need a contractor with expertise in rotating equipment and commercial mechanical systems. PRETECT provides mechanical testing, maintenance, engineering, reliability, quality assurance, commissioning, and TAB services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your system is always performing at its best.
To learn more, download our full capabilities brochure:
The MACHINE MDs ARE IN THE BUILDING
Does PRETECT provide vibration analysis services in NYC including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Long Island, Northern New Jersey, Boston, and Washington DC?
Yes, we have over 35 years of experience servicing New York, Mid-Atlantic and New England regions with vibration analysis, PRETECT is a trusted leader in machinery health monitoring and the diagnosis and correction of vibration issues in rotating equipment and structures.
Who provides Motion Amplification® services in Boston, New York City, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten and Long Island, New Jersey, Washington D.C. and surrounding areas?
PRETECT is the trusted leader for Motion Amplification® services and is trained, certified and equipped with a team of experts and latest technologies. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your system is always performing at its best.
Why should we choose PRETECT for testing services?
Just like your annual check-up with a doctor, buildings and mechanical assets need comprehensive Examination, Diagnosis, and Treatment for your building assets. Our mission is to test your assets, ensuring they operate at 100% peak performance, 24/7, 365 days a year. We have over 35 years of experience in vibration analysis, PRETECT is a trusted leader in machinery health monitoring and the diagnosis and correction of vibration issues in rotating equipment and structures.
Is PRETECT an experienced service provider?
Yes, PRETECT has 35+ years of experience in mechanical systems, diagnostics, troubleshooting, vibration analysis, infrared thermography, Motion Amplification®, precision laser alignment, VFD Maintenance and Troubleshooting, and much more! We work with all types of building equipment from OEMs such Trane, Carrier, York, Bell & Gossett, Siemens, ABB, Baldor, and many other commercial and industrial systems.
What industries do you serve?
PRETECT has many years of experience solving complex machinery health and vibration issues. We have expertise in many industries and applications including:
-Commercial Office Buildings
-Hospitals
-Power Generation
-Data Centers
-Universities
-Pharmaceutical
-Manufacturing
-Airports
-Laboratories
-High-rise Buildings
-Government Buildings
-Life Sciences
-Mission Critical Facilities
Is PRETECT a member of any unions in NYC or New Jersey?
Yes, PRETECT is proud to be a member of these outstanding unions: International Union of Operating Engineers 68, Steamfitters 638 and International Union of Operating Engineers 94
Our company has commercial office buildings in NYC, Boston, Washington DC and New England states. Who can provide Vibration Analysis and Motion Amplification® in those cities or states?
PRETECT is a national servicer provider coast to coast with headquarters in New York City.
Do you provide service in New York, Mid-Atlantic, New England and the surrounding region?
Yes, we provide services Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island, Long Island, White Plains, Westchester, Newark,
Jersey City, Hoboken, Greater Boston, Cambridge, Providence, Hartford, and Washington DC and all surrounding areas.
Do you have any case studies?
Yes, visit CASE STUDIES on our website to see various applications.
Do you have any white papers on Preventive and Predictive Maintenance?
Yes, request one here: WHITE PAPERS
Can I make a service request online?
Yes, visit Online Service Request Form to schedule services today.
Compliance Testing
What is Article 320?
Over two-thirds of New York City's Greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings. Failure to meet Article 320 requirements may result in costly violations. Mechanical systems are a major driver of building energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Owners must report annual emissions, obtain RDP certification, and maintain supporting documentation. Learn more about Article 320 at Article 320
How can PRETECT help with NYC Article 320 compliance?
PRETECT can help compile the mechanical system data and supporting documentation needed for Local Law 97 reporting. We use advanced vibration analysis, and video based technologies to evaluate and document mechanical systems condition, faults, and performance.
What is NFPA 110 Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems - Can PRETECT help us?
This standard covers performance requirements for emergency and standby power systems providing an alternate source of electrical power in buildings and facilities. Vibration analysis is recommended by many OEMs and supports NFPA 110 focus on generator reliability. PRETECT combines vibration analysis and Motion Amplification® when testing engines and generators. See our generator case study: Generator Testing
Advanced Vibration Analysis Services: What is Motion Amplification® and Vibration Analysis?
What is Motion Amplification®?
It's a non-contact and video-based Vibration Analysis and Fault Visualization service that combines high speed cameras, patented vibration visualization technology, software processing algorithms, analysis and reporting. We process and analyze the vibration data, and videos are amplified to visually show you vibration faults.
How does Motion Amplification® compare to vibration analysis?
Traditional vibration analysis using data collectors and single point accelerometers can narrow down a fault to an area, however with Motion Amplification® we use the cameras 2.3 million virtual sensors to VISUALLY show you a fault down to a specific fault: loose anchor bolts, cracked mounting bases, misalignments, and many more other fault types.
To learn more, download Motion Amplification Brochure
What Is Vibration Analysis?
Vibration analysis (also called machine condition monitoring, machinery diagnostics, predictive maintenance testing, and rotating equipment analysis) detects developing mechanical problems and used as a predictive maintenance technique that measures machine vibration to detect developing mechanical problems before they lead to equipment failure or unscheduled downtime. By monitoring FFT spectra, waveforms plots, phase data, and vibration trends over time, facility maintenance managers can schedule repairs before failures occur, improving reliability and reducing maintenance costs. Vibration analysis helps identify bearing failures, shaft misalignment, rotor imbalance, mechanical looseness,resonance, belt defects, gear wear and coupling issues.
How does Vibration Analysis work?
Vibration analysis uses sensors mounted on equipment to measure vibration levels and frequencies. The data is analyzed to identify specific mechanical faults based on characteristic vibration patterns. Experienced PRETECT analysts diagnose data to determine both the severity and probable cause of machinery problems.
How often should Vibration Analysis be performed?
The frequency of vibration analysis depends on equipment criticality, operating conditions, and failure history. Critical assets may require continuous monitoring or monthly inspections, while less critical equipment may only need quarterly or semiannual testing. Facilities that trend vibration data over time can detect gradual deterioration and schedule maintenance before failures occur.
Maintenance Strategies: What is Preventive Maintenance, (PM), Predictive Maintenance (PdM) and Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA)?
What Is predictive maintenance (PdM)?
Unlike reactive maintenance, predictive maintenance focuses on monitoring equipment health rather than waiting for failures to occur. By identifying problems early, facilities can schedule repairs during planned outages rather than responding to unexpected breakdowns.
PdM Services provided by PRETECT include:
• Vibration analysis
• Motion Amplification®
• Infrared thermography
• Ultrasound testing
• Oil analysis
• Motor circuit analysis
• Dynamic Balancing
• HVAC Testing, Adjusting and Balancing
What is the difference between preventive maintenance and predictive maintenance?
Preventive maintenance (PM) is time-based maintenance and performed on a fixed schedule regardless of equipment condition, while predictive maintenance (PdM) uses data-driven technologies to determine when maintenance is actually needed. Most modern facilities in NYC combine both strategies to maximize equipment reliability.
Why should commercial and industrial buildings perform Root Cause Failure Analysis (RCFA) instead of simply replacing equipment?
Replacing equipment without understanding why it failed often results in repeated failures. Root cause analysis identifies the underlying mechanical, structural, or operational issues. Root cause analysis combines multiple diagnostic technologies to determine why failures occur or and why shortened equipment life continues to occur and recommend permanent corrective actions.
What are the most common causes of Machinery Failures?
What are the early warning signs of machine failure?
Increasing vibration, abnormal noise, rising temperatures, excessive movement, lubricant contamination, and declining performance are among the earliest indicators of developing machine failure and wear. Routine condition monitoring allows maintenance teams to detect these warning signs before they fail and cause downtime.
What are the most common causes of machine vibration?
Most machine vibrations are caused by imbalance, misalignment, bearing defects, mechanical looseness, resonance, soft foot, belt issues, electrical problems, or improper installation. Accurately identifying the true cause often requires multiple diagnostic technologies, including vibration analysis, Motion Amplification®, and root cause analysis.
Why should elevators hoists be tested?
Elevator hoists vibration can result in poor ride quality, passenger complaints, premature wear, and increased maintenance costs. Common causes include worn bearings, motor problems, sheave defects, rail alignment issues, or structural resonance. PRETECT uses vibration analysis and Motion Amplification® to identify the root cause of elevator vibration so repairs can be targeted accurately, reducing unplanned shutdowns and improving passenger comfort and system reliability. See our elevator hoist case study: ELEVATOR HOIST
What causes excessive vibration in HVAC equipment?
Commercial HVAC systems contain multiple rotating components that must remain properly balanced and aligned. Identifying the true cause requires more than simply measuring vibration levels. PRETECT often combines Advanced vibration analysis, Motion Amplification®, laser alignment, and root cause analysis to develop effective long-term solutions. Common causes include: Fan imbalance , Motor misalignment , Loose mounting hardware, Worn bearings, Belt problems , Structural resonance , Improper VFD programming, Damaged fan blades , Weak structural supports and Pipe strain. See our air handling unit case study: AIR HANDLING UNIT
Why is annual vibration testing important for emergency backup power systems, engines and generators?
Generators play a critical role in maintaining power during outages, making reliability essential. Excessive vibration may indicate imbalance, misalignment, loose components, bearing wear, or foundation problems that can lead to unexpected failures. PRETECT performs vibration testing and Motion Amplification® to detect developing issues early, helping facility managers improve reliability, extend equipment life, reduce emergency repairs, and ensure generators are ready when they're needed most. See case generator case study: GENERATOR TESTING
Why is my electric motor vibrating?
Motor vibration is typically caused by imbalance, shaft misalignment, bearing defects, electrical issues, soft foot, resonance, or installation problems. Routine vibration analysis and Motion Amplification® can identify these issues before they result in costly failures.
What causes excessive vibration in pumps?
Pump vibration is commonly caused by cavitation, imbalance, misalignment, bearing wear, hydraulic instability, pipe strain, or improper installation. Accurate diagnosis often requires combining vibration analysis with hydraulic assessment, Motion Amplification® , and precision alignment to identify the true source of the problem. See our pump case study: PUMP
What causes excessive vibration in industrial fans, blowers, and air handling units?
Excessive vibration in industrial fans and blowers is commonly caused by rotor imbalance, misalignment, worn bearings, damaged fan blades, belt issues, structural resonance, or improper installation. If left uncorrected, excessive vibration can lead to premature equipment failure, increased energy consumption, and unplanned downtime. Fan vibration should never be ignored. Routine vibration analysis, Motion Amplification®, and precision laser alignment can identify developing issues before they result in catastrophic failure.
Why do my bearings fail prematurely?
Premature bearing failures are usually symptoms of another underlying problem rather than defects in the bearings themselves. Simply replacing repeated bearing failures without correcting the root cause often results in repeated failures. Root cause analysis helps identify why bearings continue to fail and how to prevent future problems. See our bearing case study: BONE DRY BEARINGS
Why do electric motors overheat and burn out?
Electric motors typically fail because of excessive overheating caused by overload, poor ventilation, electrical imbalance, excessive vibration, misalignment, or bearing failures. Condition monitoring allows many motor problems to be detected months before complete failure.
Why do pump seals keep failing?
Mechanical seals typically fail because of shaft misalignment, excessive vibration, cavitation, pipe strain, improper installation, or operating conditions outside the pump's design limits. Rather than simply replacing seals, organizations should identify the underlying mechanical issue causing repeated failures. Combining vibration analysis, laser alignment, Motion Amplification®, and hydraulic evaluation often reveals the true root cause and significantly extends seal life.
Mission Critical Facilities: Why is it important to perform Vibration Analysis & Motion Amplification® in Data Centers, Hospitals and Mission Critical Facilities ?
Why Is Advanced Vibration Analysis important for data centers?
AI and Data centers depend on reliable cooling systems and backup power. Vibration analysis and Motion Amplification® identifies developing mechanical problems before they affect mission-critical equipment. Routine testing improves reliability while reducing emergency maintenance.
For more information, download Comprehensive Preventive Maintenance Services for Data Centers
What causes HVAC equipment to vibrate in New York City high-rise buildings?
HVAC vibration in New York City high-rise buildings is often caused by structural flexibility, rooftop wind loading, aging equipment, improper isolation, pipe strain, resonance, and deferred maintenance. Motion Amplification® is especially valuable because engineers can visually observe building movement while equipment operates.
How can commercial building owners reduce tenant complaints with vibration?
Tenant vibration complaints often result from HVAC equipment, excessive noise complaints, structural resonance, piping movement, or rooftop mechanical systems. Proper diagnostic testing identifies the source before unnecessary repairs are made.
HVAC Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
Does PRETECT offer TAB (Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing) services in New York City and Manhattan?
Yes, Chris Mackey, is our TAB Director and is an NEBB Certified Professional with Certification #24286, giving you confidence that all services are performed to the highest national standards. Please contact Kelley Mackey for questions or to schedule at kmackey@pretectusa.com or call 929-817-1042
What is TAB Services?
TAB fine-tunes your HVAC system to ensure optimal air distribution and water flow—helping you maximize comfort in every space while minimizing high energy costs, consumption and maintenance costs. Download TAB BROCHURE for more information.
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
Is PRETECT qualified to perform VFD services in New York City, New Jersey, Boston, and Washington DC?
Yes, PRETECT is a qualified and professional source to install, calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair , troubleshoot and repair any and all variable frequency drive issues in New York City, New Jersey, Boston, and Washington DC.
What type of VFD Services do you provide?
PRETECT offers Critical Speed Analysis, VFD Preventive Maintenance, Installations and Repairs. To schedule services go to Online Service Request Form
For case example: VFD Critical Analysis
Download VFD BROCHURE for more information.
Vibration Isolators
What problems can vibration isolation systems cause in buildings?
Vibration isolators are designed to prevent vibration from HVAC equipment, pumps, cooling towers, and generators from being transmitted into a building. Over time, isolators can sag, deteriorate, become overloaded, or be installed incorrectly. Failed isolators can lead to excessive vibration, noise complaints, equipment stress, and even structural damage. PRETECT evaluates isolation systems, identifies failed or improperly adjusted isolators, and makes recommendations to restore proper equipment support and vibration control. See case study here: ISOLATORS