NCCER Millwright Practice Exam

When listening for unusual motor noises, what should you be paying attention to?

1. Vibrations in the structure

2. Pulsations in the sound

3. Metal to metal contact sounds

4. Changes in pitch

The correct answer is: Metal to metal contact sounds

When listening for unusual motor noises, paying attention to metal-to-metal contact sounds is crucial because these sounds often indicate mechanical issues or misalignments within the motor system. Such contact can signal that components are colliding or not properly lubricated, which can lead to increased wear and potentially severe damage if not addressed. Monitoring for these disturbances helps in early detection of problems, allowing for timely maintenance or repairs, and thus ensuring the long-term functionality and safety of the equipment. Other aspects like vibrations, pulsations in sound, and changes in pitch can provide valuable information about motor performance and condition, but metal-to-metal sounds are particularly indicative of critical faults that require immediate attention. Recognizing these sounds can help you prevent more significant issues before they escalate.