Seismic Velocity Sensors
A velocity sensor is a device used to measure the change in distance over time. As the vibration amplitude increases, the output of the sensor increases. Velocity sensors are also available in a variety of shapes, sizes, sensitivity levels, and technologies. They are commonly used for measuring the speed of moving objects, such as vibration on machinery.
Seismic velocity sensors are used with rolling element bearing machines that typically operate at 60Hz or less. They are also used with fluid film bearing machines in conjunction with proximity probes to provide vibration levels on the casing. Velocity sensors are used in these applications because they provide a high signal to noise ratio.
Seismic velocity sensors are defined by their practical benefits:
● Durability: These sensors are typically used in harsh environments, so they need to be durable enough to go up against extreme forces. They are known for their lasting performance, particularly in the face of high temperatures and excessive vibration.
● Flexible: Seismic sensors will need to work across an array of machinery. Power plants, refineries, food/beverage manufacturers, water and wastewater, and paper processors are just a few industries that use seismic sensors on their rotating and reciprocating machinery.
How Do Velocity Sensors Work?
There are two different types of velocity sensors – solid state and moving coil. The solid-state velocity sensor actually uses an accelerometer along with an integration circuit and an amplifier that produces an output proportional to the velocity seen by the sensor.
A moving coil velocity sensor is made up of two main components - a moving coil and a permanent magnet in whose magnetic field the coil is moving and generating its own power. Any given vibration input will induce generator action (electromotive force) producing a voltage which is proportional to the input velocity of the sensor. Because these sensors do not have integrated circuits, they can withstand high temperatures up to 375°C (707°F) and are typically used on the bearing casings of the hot section of gas turbines.
Velocity sensors have been used successfully across the board to help industrial operators understand how their equipment functions over time. When vibration can be an unpredictable symptom of changing forces and stiffnesses, technicians and engineers can use velocity sensors to monitor vibration long before there's a catastrophic shutdown of machinery. The early warning provided by these sensors has been instrumental in saving millions of dollars for power plants, refineries, water, wastewater treatment and other industrial processes.
5485C High Temp. Velocity Sensor
The 5485C High Temperature Velocity Sensor is a moving-coil velocity sensor designed for machinery applications with temperatures up to 375° C. It self-generates a signal, requiring no external power source, and provides accurate vibration measurements because of its zero-friction coil suspension. Its stainless-steel case makes it rugged and long-lasting in harsh conditions.
Most standard gas turbines provide mounting compatibility for this sensor, making it excellent for power generation, oil and gas, and transportation applications. This velocity sensor is excellent for industrial operations that want to improve their oversight and save on maintenance costs.
SV6300 Piezo-Velocity Sensor
This sensor uses an accelerometer with an internal integration circuit that provides an output directly proportional to the vibration velocity of the rotating or reciprocating equipment. It's similar to our all-purpose accelerometer but with an additional component to track a machine's movement. It is appropriate for most machinery casing monitoring applications.
The SV6300 is designed to be used in areas where you don’t have a high temperature application. The sensor is protected by an isolated stainless-steel casing. The device is compatible with vibration monitoring systems, electronic switches, and 4-20mA signal conditioners. We recommend these sensors for turbines, motors, pumps, fans, engines, compressors, and structural machinery.
Rely on Metrix as Your Velocity Sensor Supplier
At Metrix Vibration, we have been safeguarding your machinery and your team for over 55 years. We serve a wide variety of industries worldwide, including oil and gas, power generation, water and wastewater, and other industrial facilities with rotating and reciprocating equipment. Our quality and our delivery times sets us apart from the competition. When you purchase our velocity sensors, you have the benefit of years of product engineering.
Our website showcases a wide range of vibration monitoring solutions, the equipment we offer, and detailed descriptions of each product. Please visit our online store, where you can create a quote or buy today. We also offer technical support for our clients, so they can be certain they have the right product for their application. For additional questions and concerns, contact us and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.