Precise shaft vibration and position monitoring

With its new SPS series (Smart Proximity System), Avibia GmbH presents a modular, digital eddy current measurement system developed by Swiss sensor specialist MC-Monitoring for contactless detection of vibrations and positions of rotating shafts. It is ideal for monitoring turbines, pumps, and electric motors in harsh industrial environments.

The measurement system enables precise detection of imbalances, misalignments, loosening, and axial bearing wear in rotating machines. The non-contact method ensures precise measurements of distance and position, even in harsh industrial environments where factors such as dirt, oil, or electromagnetic interference are present.

The SPS series consists of the PSP-121 proximity sensor, the PSE-100 proximity system extension cable, and the DPT-100 digital proximity transmitter.

The PSP-121 sensor with its thermally compensated coil is housed in a robust AISI316L housing and equipped with a thermoplastic PPS tip. In combination with the chemically resistant FEP triaxial cable PSE-100, it ensures reliable and long-lasting performance in harsh environments – at temperatures from -35 °C to +180 °C.

The DPT-100 digital proximity transmitter is a powerful transducer. It feeds the sensor with a high-frequency signal that generates an electromagnetic field at the sensor tip. This field induces eddy currents in the metallic object being measured. Movements of the object change the magnetic field, with the changes corresponding directly to the distance between the sensor and the object being measured. The DPT-100 precisely detects these changes and converts them into an accurate distance signal. In addition to dynamic signals (8 mV/μm or 4 mV/μm), the device also offers a 4–20 mA output signal and a digital Modbus interface with real-time data such as pk-pk, pk, and mean (gap).

The SPS series offers linear measuring ranges of 2 mm and 4 mm, a frequency range from DC to 10 kHz (-3 dB), and selectable system lengths of 5 or 10 m. The modular components are interchangeable and available in various configurations for maximum flexibility and easy maintenance. “With the SPS series, we offer a powerful measurement system for modern condition monitoring of rotating machines – robust, digital, and precise,” summarizes Frank Ringsdorf, Managing Director of Avibia GmbH.

The features of the SPS series at a glance:

• Linear measuring ranges: 2 and 4 mm
• Frequency range: DC to 10 kHz (-3 dB)
• Temperature range (sensor and cable): -35 to +180 °C
• 4-20 mA characteristic output (optional)
• Built-in digital Modbus interface
• Robust and sealed construction
• Systems with 5 or 10 m total length