ISO 13373-2:2016 recommends procedures for processing and presenting vibration data and analyzing vibration signatures for the purpose of monitoring the vibration condition of rotating machinery, and performing diagnostics as appropriate. Different techniques are described for different applications. Signal enhancement techniques and analysis methods used for the investigation of particular machine dynamic phenomena are included. Many of these techniques can be applied to other machine types, including reciprocating machines. Example formats for the parameters that are commonly plotted for evaluation and diagnostic purposes are also given.

ISO 13373-2:2016 is divided essentially into two basic approaches when analysing vibration signals: the time domain and the frequency domain. Some approaches to the refinement of diagnostic results, by changing the operational conditions, are also covered.

ISO 13373-2:2016 includes only the most commonly used techniques for the vibration condition monitoring, analysis and diagnostics of machines. There are many other techniques used to determine the behaviour of machines that apply to more in‑depth vibration analysis and diagnostic investigations beyond the normal follow‑on to machinery condition monitoring. A detailed description of these techniques is beyond the scope of ISO 13373-2:2016, but some of these more advanced special purpose techniques are listed in Clause 5 for additional information.

For specific machine types and sizes, the ISO 7919 and ISO 10816 series provide guidance for the application of broadband vibration magnitudes for condition monitoring, and other documents such as VDI 3839 provide additional information about machinery‑specific problems that can be detected when conducting vibration diagnostics.