The Challenge of High-Temperature Vibration Monitoring in Industrial Automation

Industrial automation and control systems demand robust sensing. Monitoring vibration in extreme conditions is a major challenge. Standard accelerometers often fail in high-temperature services. Industries like power generation and nuclear face these limitations daily. Accurate, long-term data is vital for predictive maintenance and safety. Therefore, engineers need specialized, ultra-reliable sensors.

CA 901's Extreme Temperature Capability and Rugged Design

The CA 901 accelerometer meets these harsh demands head-on. It boasts an astonishing operational temperature range. Specifically, it functions from -196°C up to +700°C intermittently. Its continuous operating range is -54°C to +650°C. This makes it perfect for gas-turbines and high-temperature process equipment. Moreover, the hermetically welded Inconel 600 housing ensures maximum durability. This construction withstands high pressure and corrosive media.

The Power of VC2 Sensing Material for High Stability

A sensor's core determines its performance. The CA 901 utilizes a VC2 single-crystal sensing element. This element operates in compression mode. Consequently, it delivers high stability and measurement accuracy. This is critical for reliable vibration monitoring in harsh environments. The sensitivity is 10 pC/g at 120 Hz, offering precise data. This stability is non-negotiable for critical control systems feedback.

Reliable Charge Output for Long-Term Industrial Monitoring

The CA 901 is a charge-output transducer. This means it lacks internal electronics. Therefore, the design enhances long-term reliability, especially at high temperatures. Internal electronics typically degrade fastest in heat. The integral mineral-insulated (MI) cable also connects directly. Users must pair it with a suitable charge amplifier. This setup is ideal for remote installations within factory automation.

Certified for Safety: Hazardous Areas and Nuclear Standards

Safety and compliance are paramount in heavy industry. This accelerometer holds ATEX Ex ia certification. This rating makes it suitable for explosive/hazardous atmospheres (e.g., Zone 0/1/2 gas). Additionally, it meets crucial standards. These include NRC Guide 1.133 and IEEE 323-1974. This compliance gives plant operators maximum confidence. Such certifications are essential for robust DCS and PLC installations.

Application Spotlight: Loose-Part Detection and Wide Frequency Response

Beyond general vibration, the CA 901 handles specialized tasks. Its sensitivity and ruggedness make it suitable for loose-part detection. This is vital in nuclear reactor internals and power generation turbines. Its frequency response is broad, from 3 Hz to ~2,800 Hz (±5%). This range captures both low-frequency machine imbalance and high-frequency impact events. Therefore, it is a versatile tool for industrial automation.

Author's Commentary: Investing in Reliability for Predictive Maintenance

Investing in a sensor like the CA 901 is a strategic move. While the initial cost may be higher, the return is significant. It reduces downtime and increases safety. Generic sensors simply cannot provide this level of certainty. For critical assets, reliability trumps cost every time. Its ~8 m cable variant (#144-901-000-252) offers installation flexibility. This avoids failure-prone in-line connection junctions.

Solution Scenario: Gas-Turbine Bearing Protection

A major power generation plant needs bearing vibration data. The turbine casing temperature reaches ~600°C. The CA 901 is mounted directly on the hot casing. It connects to a remote charge amplifier via its 8 m MI cable. The amplifier converts the charge signal to voltage. This voltage feeds into the plant's DCS for continuous analysis. This solution ensures asset protection and complies with safety regulations.

Explore the CA 901 and other high-reliability sensors for your industrial needs.

Click here to view Ubest Automation Limited's product portfolio and detailed specifications.