BENTLY 130944-01

Product Description

The BENTLY 130944-01 is a precision-engineered proximity transducer system, a fundamental component for monitoring radial vibration and axial position in rotating machinery. This system typically includes a probe, extension cable, and a proximitor (oscillator/demodulator) driver. The BENTLY 130944-01 is designed to provide highly accurate, non-contact measurement of the distance between the probe tip and a conductive target, which is usually a machine’s shaft. By converting physical gap changes into a proportional DC voltage signal, it enables the continuous monitoring of critical parameters such as shaft relative vibration, eccentricity, and thrust position. The reliability and accuracy of the 130944-01 system are paramount for protecting expensive turbomachinery like turbines, compressors, and generators from catastrophic damage due to excessive vibration or axial rub. Implementing this transducer is a critical step in establishing a trusted machinery protection and condition monitoring foundation.

Technical Parameters and Specifications

• System Type: Eddy-Current Proximity Transducer System.

• Components: Typically includes a probe (transducer), extension cable, and a proximitor (driver). The BENTLY 130944-01 often specifies a complete, matched set.

• Probe Diameter: Common industry-standard size, likely 8 mm or 5 mm.

• Linear Range: The distance over which the output voltage is linearly proportional to gap change (e.g., 0.2 to 2.0 mm / 80 to 200 mils for a standard 8mm probe).

• Sensitivity: Standard output scale, typically 200 mV/mil (7.87 V/mm). This means a 1 mil (0.001 inch) change in gap produces a 200 mV change in output.

• Output Signal: A negative DC voltage that varies linearly with gap (e.g., -2 V DC at the electrical zero point, scaling to more negative voltages as the gap decreases).

• Target Material: Requires a conductive target, typically ferrous steel (AISI 4140/4340 is standard). Calibration changes with different materials.

• Temperature Rating: Probes are designed for high-temperature operation, often up to 150°C (302°F) or higher with special options.

• Power Supply: The proximitor requires a dual DC supply, typically ±12 to ±15 V DC or a single +24V DC input, depending on the model.

• Frequency Response: DC to 10 kHz or higher, capable of capturing both slow changes (eccentricity) and high-frequency vibration.

Advantages and Key Features

• Non-Contact Measurement: The key advantage of the BENTLY 130944-01 system is its ability to measure vibration and position without physical contact with the rotating shaft, eliminating wear and providing a frictionless, high-frequency response.

• High Accuracy and Resolution: Provides extremely precise measurement of dynamic motion (vibration) and static position (thrust), which is essential for detecting minute changes that signal developing machine faults.

• Robust and Reliable: Designed for continuous operation in the hostile environments of heavy industry (high temperature, pressure, oil mist, steam). The 130944-01 system is known for its long-term stability and durability.

• Matched System Calibration: When supplied as a matched set, the probe, cable, and driver are calibrated together, ensuring optimal performance and specified linearity, which simplifies installation and commissioning.

• Industry Standard Interface: The output signal and scaling are an industry standard, making the BENTLY 130944-01 compatible not only with Bently Nevada monitoring systems (3500, 3300) but also with a wide range of other PLC, DCS, and protection systems.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Steam & Gas Turbines: Monitoring radial shaft vibration on each bearing and axial thrust position to prevent damaging rubs and overloads. The BENTLY 130944-01 is the primary sensor for these critical measurements.

• Centrifugal & Axial Compressors: Measuring shaft vibration to detect imbalance, misalignment, and shaft instability (sub-synchronous whirl). Thrust position monitoring protects against catastrophic failure of thrust bearings.

• Hydroelectric Generators: Monitoring generator air gap and shaft runout (eccentricity) to detect rotor pole movement or stator core issues.

• Large Motors and Pumps: Used on critical drive motors and high-energy pumps to monitor bearing condition and shaft stability, providing early warning of mechanical issues.

Comparison with Competing Products

Compared to proximity transducer systems from other vendors like Keyence, AMOT, or Metrix, the BENTLY 130944-01 stands out in specific areas:

• Gold Standard for Protection: Bently Nevada transducers like the 130944-01 are considered the industry benchmark for machinery protection (API 670 standard) in critical rotating equipment. They are often specified by engineering firms for greenfield projects.

• Integrated System Compatibility: Its performance is guaranteed and optimized with Bently Nevada’s monitoring frames (e.g., 3500 system). This end-to-end compatibility reduces integration risk and ensures performance as specified in safety-related systems.

• Focus on Extreme Conditions: The BENTLY 130944-01 is engineered explicitly for the high-temperature, high-reliability demands of power generation and oil & gas, whereas some competitors may focus more on general industrial or precision measurement applications.

• Comprehensive Support: Comes with full application engineering support for complex installation scenarios (high temperatures, non-standard targets, long cable runs), which is critical for proper function in protection systems.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Select the Correct Kit: The BENTLY 130944-01 must be ordered as a complete, matched system (probe, cable of precise length, driver). Mixing components from different kits or vendors degrades accuracy and linearity.

2. Proper Probe Installation: The probe must be mounted securely in a properly designed and installed bracket. The target area on the shaft must be smooth, concentric, and free of scratches, pitting, or magnetic spots.

3. Gap Setting and Electrical Check: The probe must be “gapped” to the correct mechanical distance (e.g., 1.0 mm / 40 mils) to center it within its linear range. Always verify the corresponding “Gap Voltage” at the driver output per the calibration sheet.

4. Cable Routing is Critical: The extension cable is part of the tuned circuit. Never cut or splice it. Route it away from power cables and secure it to prevent vibration. Protect connectors from oil and moisture.

5. Target Material and Surface: Ensure the shaft target material matches the probe’s calibration (typically 4140 steel). If different, a re-scaling of the output is required. The target must be larger than the probe sensing area.

6. Regular Calibration Verification: While stable, the entire 130944-01 system should be checked periodically during shutdowns. This involves verifying the gap voltage and performing a mechanical “bump” test to confirm system response. Keep the calibration certificate on file.