What are The Different Types and Pros of Vibration Sensors?

Posted by eliteinternet on March 11th, 2020

In this post, we are going to talk about the importance of measuring vibrations and the technology behind it.

Many plantsstill follow a “run to failure” maintenance strategyand do not take any actions until machinery fails.That results in high maintenance costs and production losses.However, some other companies follow preventive, calendar-based maintenance in which activities are scheduled regardless of the actual condition ofthe machinery. During this process, error-free machines are unnecessarily repaired, leading to higher costs.Some other more fortune companies follow condition-based maintenance, where devices are measured with a vibration sensor. Using a vibration sensor does not require tearing a machine down to find out its condition. When a fault occurs in a machine’s condition, a repair is scheduled when it is necessary.

Continuous monitoringof a machine’s parameters like temperature, speed, vibration, and pressure is quite necessary for the optimum performance of machines.Vibration analysis is the perfect way to monitor stress and diagnose problems in machines. But measurements like displacement, frequency, velocity, and acceleration depend on the function and design of different vibration sensors. Below we’ll review what those different types are.

Accelerometers

Often used when in direct contact with the vibrating object, this is the most common type of vibration sensor.

Piezoelectric Accelerometers

The piezoelectric accelerometer is the most popular type of accelerometer used for industrial applications. Available in variants, they operate wellwhile delivering little noise. They are also able to withstand extreme environments.

Piezoresistive (PR) Accelerometers

When it comes to calculating velocity or displacement, the piezoresistive accelerometer is used most commonly. Since the amplitude and frequency on these devices are high, they are the best option to measure impulse. Since PR accelerometers are quite expensive and more sensitive to temperature variation, they are not theright choice for lower frequency and amplitude measurements.

Capacitive MEMS Accelerometers

Being the lowest-costing and smallest type of accelerometer, capacitive MEMs accelerometers are commonly used in Smartphones. Initially invented to use in personal electronic devices for measuring movement, they are now perfect for many industrial applications.

Strain Gauge

This type of vibration sensor is not only lightweight and accurate, but it is also versatile and attachable to any kind of surface. Although they are relatively inexpensive on their own, they require supplementary amplification devices that are more costly.

Gyroscopes

When it comes to measuring angular rates, these devicesare often used in conjunction with accelerometers. While accelerometers can sometimes become disoriented, a gyroscope can accurately monitor the orientation of the system and create more exact measurements.

There are also types of vibration sensors like gearbox vibration sensors that are cost-effective and easy-to-use.So, choose the best one that suits your conditions, and you will benefit from the most relevant and precise measurements.a

Like it? Share it!


eliteinternet

About the Author

eliteinternet
Joined: February 13th, 2018
Articles Posted: 1,346

More by this author