Metrix, the USA based vibration measurement and condition monitoring specialist has recently announced its new ST5484E-SW series configurable seismic vibration switch. Available with full support in the UK from its distribution partner Ixthus Instrumentation, the compact 24 V DC loop-powered electronic switch will setpoint two programmable and independent alarms through solid state contacts with time-adjustable delays, as well as monitor continuous vibration through a control system.
The new configurable vibration switch is based on the well proven ST5484ST vibration transmitter which is used across a wide range of seismic vibration measurement applications on rotating and reciprocating machinery. Aimed at demanding machine monitoring tasks where built-in alarm protection is additionally required, the ST5484E-SW integrates a piezoelectric accelerometer, signal integrator and amplifier, RMS or peak detector, a 4-20 mA signal conditioner and a digital microcontroller into a single package. Two indepen¬dently configurable alarm setpoints with time delays and corresponding discrete outputs allow implementation of ALERT (pre-shutdown) and DANGER (shutdown) levels by a machine control system. Additionally the units’ 4-20 mA proportional velocity output enables interfacing with PLCs, DCSs, strip chart recorders, or other process monitoring systems where real-time vibration levels can be monitored.
Model variants include an 8-pin sealed connectorised version as a 10 m submersible/water resistant model. The connector version is also available with an optional non-incendive rating (Class1/Div2) that may be used with barriers for special installations. An alternative version with flying leads, wired directly to conduit fittings, is available for hazardous area installations and includes Metrix’s 8200 explosion-proof elbow. The corrosion and water resistant switch is housed in 316 stainless steel with a nominal diameter and length around 38 x 62 mm for the connector version, and overall length of 136 mm for the explosion-proof model.
A wide choice of scale-range options and mounting studs provide application and installation flexibility. The setpoints are set at the factory at one half (1/2) and two thirds (2/3) of the full scale range, but may be adjusted through Metrix software with the delay time programmable up to 300 seconds. Users can choose twelve standard full-scale peak or true RMS range models from 25.4 mm/s to 76.2 mm/sec. Stud interfacing covers all common metric and imperial dimensions through NPT, UNF, UNC and M8/M10. Hazardous area certification includes CSA, INMETRO, and ATEX/IECx and KOSHA -conforming to explosion proof and non-incendive option variants. The ST5484E-SW is also available with a wide choice of low- and high-pass filters or can be customised to exactly suit the user filter requirements.
Ixthus Instrumentation provides comprehensive technical and sales support for the Metrix range of seismic and proximity measurement instruments and test systems. With in-house design and assembly, and with distribution partnerships with many other leading suppliers of non-contact sensing technologies for force, torque and vibration, Ixthus delivers measurement application solutions across industry, research, military, aerospace, marine, oil and gas, mining, hoist and crane, automotive and more.
