Proximity probes are commonly used in rotating equipment for vibration and position monitoring. Proper installation is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable measurements. Here are some tips for proximity probe installation in rotating equipment:
- Establish Correct Air Gap: Set the correct air gap between the probe tip and the target surface. Follow manufacturer specifications for the recommended gap distance. Use shims or spacers if necessary to achieve the correct spacing.
- Secure Mounting: Ensure the probe is securely mounted to minimize any movement during operation. Use appropriate mounting hardware and ensure that it is tightened to the specified torque.
- Check Target Surface Condition: Ensure the surface where the probe tip contacts is clean and free from contaminants. Remove any rust, debris, or coatings that might affect the probe's performance.
- Use Non-Magnetic Materials: Avoid using magnetic materials near the probe, as they can interfere with the probe's magnetic field and accuracy. Select non-magnetic mounting brackets and hardware.
- Verify Electrical Connections: Ensure proper electrical connections to the proximity probe and associated monitoring system. Check for secure connections and verify cable integrity.
- Calibration and Testing: Perform a calibration check after installation to verify the accuracy of the proximity probe. Conduct functional tests to ensure the probe is providing reliable measurements.
- Consider Redundancy: In critical applications, consider installing redundant proximity probes for additional reliability. Redundancy can provide a backup in case of probe failure.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for probe installation. Consult the equipment manual for specific instructions and requirements.
- Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Periodically inspect the proximity probe installation for any signs of wear, misalignment, or damage. Perform routine maintenance to ensure continued accuracy.
- Environmental Considerations: Consider the environmental conditions of the installation site. Provide protection, such as housing or covers, to shield the probe from harsh weather or other environmental factors.
By following these tips, you can help ensure the accurate and reliable operation of proximity probes in rotating equipment, contributing to effective condition monitoring and maintenance practices
SME - Machinery Reliabilty. Asset Integrity. NGL Operations
1 年Welcome back mohd. Good one shared
Leading research teams in 3D metal printing technology.
1 年Thank you sir for this data
Deputy General Manager (Maintenance) ISO CAT IV vibration analyst, Asset Reliability Practitioner Cat I at Vizag Steel
1 年MOHAMED IBRAHIM, VA CAT IV, CLS , MLE, MLAIII, MLTII, VIM, VPR, ARP-E, CRL, CMRP nice post. Did you find anywhere spacers and shims to adjust the air gap between proximity probe and target?
Electric motor SME
1 年Keep your probes on the center of the axis of the shaft. Reading a chord will result in an exponential curve and erroneous readings.
Slates Consulting LLC
1 年Great list though I would recommend against both magnetic and nonmagnetic metals near the probe tip. While the loading characteristics are slightly different to a probe, both classes of metal will load the tip and cause problems. I know this is counterintuitive given how steel reacts to a simple magnet but here's what's happening... A magnetic steel can have a significant affect on field shape from DC to very low carrier frequencies but most probes run somewhere in the 200KHz to 1.5MHz range. An effect called eddy current shielding will overwhelm the target magnetic characteristics trying to affect field shape and limit the EC probe penetration depth to just the outer skin of the nearby metal for any typical steel regardless of permeability.