Product Introduction
The Epro PR6424/018-021 16 mm Eddy Current Sensor is a high-precision non-contact displacement probe engineered for continuous vibration and shaft-position monitoring in demanding industrial environments. Utilizing advanced eddy-current measurement principles, it delivers accurate, drift-free measurements of both static and dynamic shaft movement, making it ideal for turbomachinery, compressors, motors, and pumps. Its rugged stainless-steel construction and exceptional thermal stability allow reliable operation in harsh process conditions for extended periods without recalibration.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Number | PR6424/018-021 |
| Manufacturer | Epro (Brüel & Kjær Vibro) |
| Measurement Principle | Non-contact eddy current displacement |
| Sensor Head Diameter | 16 mm |
| Nominal Measuring Range | 0–4 mm (typical, adjustable with CON021 driver) |
| Linear Range | ±2 mm around mid-gap |
| Sensitivity | 8 mV/µm ±2 % |
| Frequency Response | DC to 10 kHz (−3 dB) |
| Power Supply | ±15 VDC (via compatible Epro driver) |
| Operating Temperature | −35 °C to +180 °C |
| Storage Temperature | −40 °C to +200 °C |
| Vibration Resistance | 20 g, 10–2 000 Hz |
| Protection Class | IP67 stainless-steel sealed housing |
| Weight | 0.2 kg |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, optional ATEX for hazardous areas |
Applications
-
Turbomachinery Monitoring: Provides continuous measurement of shaft vibration and radial displacement for turbines and compressors.
-
Bearing Gap and Rotor Position: Accurately detects shaft-to-bearing movement for predictive maintenance and early fault detection.
-
Critical Pump & Motor Systems: Supports real-time protection against misalignment, imbalance, and cavitation.
-
Industrial Condition Monitoring: Integrates seamlessly with Epro CON021 drivers and plant monitoring systems to supply actionable vibration data.
-
Predictive Maintenance Programs: Supplies precise displacement signals for data historians and advanced diagnostic software in refineries and power plants.
Advantages
-
High Accuracy and Stability: Maintains 8 mV/µm sensitivity with minimal temperature drift for reliable long-term measurements.
-
Robust Construction: Stainless-steel, IP67-rated housing ensures excellent resistance to moisture, dust, and chemicals.
-
Wide Operating Temperature: Performs consistently from −35 °C to +180 °C, suitable for high-temperature process areas.
-
Fast Dynamic Response: DC to 10 kHz bandwidth captures rapid transient shaft movements and vibration events.
-
Low Maintenance: Non-contact operation reduces wear, eliminates mechanical friction, and extends service intervals.
-
Flexible Integration: Fully compatible with CON021 driver modules and most industrial vibration monitoring systems.
FAQ
-
What is the typical linear measuring range for this sensor?
The PR6424/018-021 provides a linear range of about ±2 mm around its calibrated mid-gap, ideal for most standard vibration monitoring applications. -
Which driver module is best suited for this sensor?
The Epro CON021 driver is recommended, providing proper excitation, temperature compensation, and precise signal conditioning. -
How is thermal stability maintained during extreme temperature changes?
The sensor employs temperature-stable coil materials and relies on the CON021 driver’s compensation circuitry to maintain accuracy across −35 °C to +180 °C. -
Can the sensor handle high vibration environments?
Yes. It is designed to withstand continuous vibration levels up to 20 g within a 10–2 000 Hz frequency range without performance degradation. -
Is this sensor compatible with monitoring systems other than Epro equipment?
Yes, it can be integrated with third-party systems as long as proper impedance matching and calibration procedures are followed. -
What is the importance of its frequency response capability?
A DC to 10 kHz bandwidth allows the sensor to capture both slow shaft displacement and high-frequency vibration, essential for comprehensive diagnostics. -
Does the PR6424/018-021 require field calibration?
Field calibration is recommended during installation, using a micrometer gap reference to set the CON021 driver’s zero and gain. -
Is the sensor suitable for use in hazardous or explosive areas?
An ATEX-certified version is available, permitting safe operation in Zone 1 or Zone 2 hazardous environments when used with approved barriers. -
How is electrical noise minimized in the signal output?
The coaxial cable design, combined with the CON021 driver’s filtering, provides excellent immunity to electromagnetic interference. -
What type of signal does the sensor output?
It provides a voltage signal proportional to displacement (8 mV/µm), enabling direct interface with industrial vibration and condition monitoring systems.
Recommended Related Models (Same Series)
| Model Number | Description |
|---|---|
| PR6424/000-030 | Standard 8 mm eddy current probe for general machinery |
| PR6424/010-000 | 8 mm high-temperature variant |
| PR6424/015-000 | 11 mm extended-range probe |
| PR6424/018-000 | 16 mm sensor, base configuration |
| PR6424/020-000 | 25 mm large-gap sensor for heavy-duty shafts |
| PR6424/022-100 | High-frequency response model |
Popular Epro Models (Same Brand)
| Model Number | Description |
|---|---|
| MMS6210 | Advanced machine monitoring system for turbines and compressors |
| PR6423/005-010 | Compact eddy current probe for tight installation spaces |
| PR6425/010-140 | High-temperature displacement sensor |
| MMS6312 | Multi-channel condition monitoring module |
| CON021 | Universal driver module for Epro eddy current sensors |
| MMS6110 | Vibration monitoring and diagnostics unit |
Excellent PLC
