Vibration sensor selection
The range of vibration sensors offered is wide, as a vibration sensor has many different characteristics that may vary, including measurement related factors such as frequency response, sensitivity and accuracy. Physical characteristics such as temperature rating, size and connector orientation are also considerations.
The following is a guide to SKF's experience in sensor use in the
most common industrial sectors that employ vibration monitoring. For
each industry, the top four features required of a quality vibration
sensor are stated and explained. Industrial sensor choices are graded as
follows:
- Good - A general purpose choice that has adequate measurement and physical characteristics for condition monitoring programmes, where data is trended for change and absolute precision is not so important.
- Better - A general purpose choice that has adequate measurement and physical characteristics for condition monitoring programmes, but adds a specific feature such as an extended temperature range or mounting orientation better suited to the application.
- Best - A premium choice that has optimum
measurement and physical characteristics, but also offers the longest
history as evidence of reliability. These are particularly suited to
critical machinery applications where the sensor may be used in
safety-related functions such as machinery protection.
Below is a list of the most common industrial sectors that employ
vibration monitoring. SKF's experience in sensor use can help you select
the best vibration sensor for the selected industry.
- Pulp and Paper
- General Purpose, Food and Beverage
- Oil and Gas, Refining, Petrochemicals
- Power Generation (fossil fuel, nuclear, hydro)
- Power Generation (wind turbines)
- Machine tools
- Metalworking
- Mining, Mineral Processing and Cement
- Specialized models for portable data collector/analyzer usage
SKF offers a variety of accessories that are available for vibration sensors, including sensor cables, connectors, mounting accessories, and much more. Refer to the SKF Vibration Sensors Catalogue for a description of the various accessories available for vibration sensors.
Variety of sensors
The SKF Vibration Sensors Catalogue (link below) features a variety of industrial sensors and proven accessories to meet your specific needs. Use this comprehensive catalogue as a reference guide - it is grouped into the following categories:
- Sensor selection
- Industrial accelerometers for widespread applications
- Economical accelerometers
- Integral cable accelerometers
- Accelerometers with extended temperature range
- Combination vibration and temperature sensors
- Hazardous area approved sensors (hazardous area installation instructions are available for download)
- Velocity sensors
- Portable analysis accelerometers
- Special purpose sensors (low frequency, high frequency, machine tool, acceleration and AEE, small diameter)
- Vibration sensor installation and mounting requirements
- Vibration sensor cables and accessories
- Mounting hardware