Accelerometer Monitors High- And Low-Speed Applications

Jan. 12, 2012
Device is capable of simultaneous monitoring on both ends of machine spectrum.

Meggitt Sensing Systems introduces a new high-output accelerometer for machinery health monitoring. The Wilcoxon Research model 786-500-D2 accelerometer carries CSA approvals for Class I Div 2/Zone 2 areas and has 500 mV/g output sensitivity and broadband frequency response for multi-use applications.

The 786-500-D2 can handle low-speed applications such as wind turbine generators by overcoming data collector noise that can mask peaks at low frequencies. With a high-sensitivity sensor, the new model also can detect low-level vibrations to work with high-speed applications such as machine tool spindles or gear mesh frequencies.

Offering 5% sensitivity tolerance and ±3 dB frequency response range that covers 0.2 to 14,000 Hz, the accelerometer also includes a multi-purpose sensor with full-scale acceleration range of 10 g and broadband noise floor of 250 μg. It is designed for applications where both ends of the machine spectrum need to be monitored simultaneously.

With Class I Div 2/Zone 2 certification, the new model can be used in areas where hazardous gas, vapors or mist would only be present under abnormal conditions. While not as stringent as Division 1/Zone 1 certifications, this CSA certified unit can be safely used on motors, pumps, fans and other process equipment located in hazardous areas.