Description

EPRO CON041 – Converter Module for Vibration Monitoring

Product Description

The EPRO CON041 is a specialized signal converter and power supply module within the EPRO PR 6423 series of eddy current proximity transducer systems. This device serves a dual critical function: it provides the required operating power to the connected proximity probes (sensors) and converts the raw probe signals into standardized, processable outputs for monitoring systems. The EPRO CON041 acts as the essential interface between sensitive vibration/position probes and the data acquisition or protection hardware, ensuring accurate signal conditioning and reliable system operation. Integrating an EPRO CON041 into a machinery monitoring setup is fundamental for obtaining high-fidelity data on shaft relative vibration and axial position.

Product Parameters

• Product Series: Part of the PR 6423 converter series for PR 64xx proximity probes.

• Function: Combined Power Supply and Signal Converter for eddy current sensors.

• Number of Channels: Typically a single-channel device.

• Input: Connects to a compatible EPRO PR 64xx series eddy current proximity probe via a coaxial cable.

• Outputs: Provides two key output signals:

  • Gap Voltage (DC): A DC voltage proportional to the average distance (gap) between the probe tip and the measured shaft.

  • Vibration Signal (AC): An AC voltage proportional to the dynamic vibration or displacement of the shaft.

• Power Supply: Requires an external power input, typically +24 VDC.

• Sensitivity: Factory-calibrated to the standard sensitivity of -7.87 V/mm (-200 mV/mil).

• Linearity: Ensures a linear output across the specified measuring range (e.g., 0.5 to 2.0 mm).

Advantages and Features

• Dual-Function Design: Integrates power supply and signal conversion into a single, compact module, simplifying cabinet wiring and reducing component count.

• High Accuracy and Linearity: Provides precise, linear conversion of the probe’s raw signal, which is crucial for accurate machine protection and condition assessment.

• Essential Diagnostic Output: The DC Gap Voltage output is a critical tool for verifying proper probe installation, checking for probe degradation, and monitoring average shaft position (e.g., thrust bearing wear).

• Robust Industrial Design: Built to perform reliably in the electrically noisy environments typical of industrial plants and power generation facilities.

• Proven Compatibility: Guaranteed to work with specified EPRO PR 64xx probes, ensuring system performance as specified by API 670 and other machinery protection standards.

• Clear Status Indication: Often includes LED indicators to show power status and signal health.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Power Generation (Gas & Steam Turbines): Used in pairs or multiples to convert signals from radial vibration probes and axial position (thrust) probes, feeding data to a TÜV-certified protection system like an EPRO MMS 6000.

• Oil & Gas (Centrifugal Compressors): Converts signals from vibration probes monitoring compressor shaft relative vibration on critical process gas compressors to prevent catastrophic failures.

• Hydroelectric Power Plants: Conditions signals from probes monitoring generator shaft runout and bearing vibration on large vertical shaft units.

• Marine Propulsion: Interfaces between shaft vibration probes and the vessel’s machinery monitoring system for main engine and turbine protection.

• Heavy Industry (Pumps & Fans): Used on large, critical motor-driven pumps and fans to provide vibration signals to a plant’s distributed control system (DCS) or PLC for predictive maintenance.

Comparisons with Competing Products

Competing products include other manufacturers’ proximity system converters, such as the Bently Nevada 3300 XL 8mm Proximitor or Vibro-Meter CPA 01. The EPRO CON041 is distinguished by its specific design for integration within the EPRO PR 6423/PR 64xx ecosystem. Its primary advantage is its direct compatibility and calibrated performance with EPRO’s own probe series. While general-purpose signal conditioners exist, they lack the optimized front-end for eddy current probes and the built-in capability to provide the crucial Gap Voltage diagnostic. The CON041 is a dedicated, application-specific component designed for high-reliability machinery protection.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

• Probe Compatibility is Mandatory: The CON041 must be used with its designated family of EPRO PR 64xx series proximity probes. Mixing brands or incompatible series will result in incorrect calibration and measurement errors.

• System Integration: Verify that the output signal levels (AC and DC) are compatible with the input requirements of the downstream monitoring device (e.g., PLC analog input card, dedicated monitor like MMS 6000).

• Power Supply Quality: Use a clean, well-regulated +24 VDC power source. Noise or voltage fluctuations on the supply can directly affect the accuracy and stability of the output signals.

• Cabling and Grounding: Use the correct, shielded coaxial cables for connecting the probe to the CON041. Follow proper grounding practices as outlined in the manual to prevent ground loops and electrical interference.

• Calibration Verification: While factory-calibrated, the system’s end-to-end calibration (probe, cable, CON041) should be verified during commissioning using a precision gap simulator.

• Environmental Placement: Install the module in a protected cabinet with suitable environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) as per its specifications.

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