Smart vibration switch updated

For continuous online monitoring of machine condition, the new version, VNB211, measures and displays two vibration characteristics in the time domain RMS acceleration (or peak acceleration) in addition to the average vibration velocity (mm/s or in/s).   

Acceleration is measured over a range of 0 to 25g, and vibration frequency up to 6000Hz, making the VNB211 suitable for small motors, fans and pumps, which are often monitored manually or not at all.

Not only can a system such as the VNB211 help maintain reliable operation, but also monitoring by vibration severity to ISO 10816 can avoid unplanned downtime and costly consequential damage.

The VNB211 has pushbuttons, making it simple to set up, requiring no PC software for parameter setting. ifm’s VES004 software can be used to access additional features.  A setting guide for switch point settings according to ISO 10816A is freely available on the ifm electronic website www.ifm.com/uk.

For data collection and trending over a period of up to three years, an on-board time-stamped history function logs vibration values, as well as the values from an external sensor (if needed) with a resolution of one second.

Further possibilities such as temperature or inclination monitoring are presented by the integrated dual-channel-system, using Y-cable (available as an accessory).

Once installed, the user can clearly see the machine status by the colour of the LED display. The four-digit alphanumeric display shows the real-time vibration value, colour-coded for 'traffic light' function, allowing instant identification of a critical situation regardless of output status. A closer inspection will reveal individual output status as well as other indications from the eight signal LEDs above the alphanumeric display.

Critical machine conditions are signalled using either two switching outputs or alternatively one switch and one analogue (4 to 20mA) output. In addition to the outputs, an input allows for the simultaneous monitoring of a further process value, for example temperature, and these values are recorded together with the vibration data.

In a fixed installation the VNB211 is powered from a standard 24VDC supply via an M12 connector. However, portable operation is also possible, in combination with, say, a tablet or laptop, where the unit can be powered using the integrated USB. The integrated display can even be used to show the ISO and temperature measurements which means not even a PC is required, just a USB battery pack. 

While the VNB is designed to be simple to use, the parameter setting menu also offers many variable settings for the more sophisticated applications, from on and off delays on the main outputs and scaling the analogue to setting hysteresis values, and much more besides. The setting also features an electronic lock to prevent tampering once the required parameters have been chosen.

The VNB211 is built with a rugged die-cast housing and will operate over a temperature range of -30 to +60°C. It has a protection rating of IP67, withstands shock and vibration to EN 60028-2 and conforms to the generic EMC requirements of EN 61000-4.