Endoscopic-Gear-Inspection
Mechanical
Endoscopic gear inspection is a non-destructive testing (NDT) technique that uses a flexible or rigid endoscope (borescope or videoscope) to visually inspect internal surfaces of gears and gearboxes without disassembly. It’s especially useful in aerospace, power generation, and heavy industry, where downtime and teardown costs are very high. Uses an optical device with a camera, fiber optics, or digital sensor to enter tight spaces inside gearboxes. Provides real-time video and high-resolution images of gear teeth, surfaces, and lubrication conditions. Can be paired with measuring tips or software overlays to evaluate defects like pitting, scuffing, or spalling.
When to
Use
During routine PM cycles for gearboxes operating under variable load or high duty cycles.
After any abnormal noise, vibration spike, or torque fluctuation in gear-driven systems.
Post-maintenance involving gear replacement, housing reassembly, or seal installation.
When oil analysis reveals metallic particles, discoloration, or viscosity anomalies.
Following thermal imaging that shows localized hotspots on gear casing or housing.
After startup events with rhythmic or high-pitched gear noise.
When backlash measurements exceed tolerance or show irregular variation.
During troubleshooting of torque loss, gear slippage, or inconsistent motion transmission.
After exposure to moisture, chemical ingress, or suspected corrosion environments.
Before recommissioning gearboxes after long-term storage or environmental exposure.
When visual inspection reveals housing distortion, seal degradation, or oil leaks.
As part of root cause analysis following bearing failure, shaft misalignment, or motor overload.
