Recent developments in proximity systems for industrial monitoring are driving significant advances in the control of rotating and reciprocating machines. Since Don Bently created the first linear system in the late 1950s, this technology has undergone constant evolution. His proximity system measured accurately to thousandths of an inch and, over the years, has undergone improvements that have increased accuracy, linearity, and repeatability. However, the current analog design imposes limitations on the material type, probe size and type, and system length. Therefore, to ensure optimal performance, it is essential to use the equipment as specified.
For example, a proximity system designed for 4140 target material with an 8 mm probe tip and a 5-meter length must operate under these conditions. Otherwise, applying it to a 17-4 pH stainless steel rotor will negatively impact performance. Furthermore, even though the Vibration Monitoring System (VMS) allows adjustments, these are limited to the Average Scale Factor (ASF). Therefore, the system does not meet the Incremental Scale Factor (ISF) requirements of API 670.
Importance of recent developments in digital proximity systems
Over the past decade, recent developments in digital proximity systems have transformed the industrial landscape. With technological advancements, they stand out for their flexibility, high accuracy, and ease of configuration.
Why choose digital proximity systems?
Many professionals question the need to convert an analog signal to digital and then return it to analog format. The explanation lies in the limitations of analog systems, which prevent changes in probe material, length, or type without compromising linearity and accuracy. Don Bently predicted that digital technology would solve these problems. Although he patented the first digital system in 1993, the processors at the time lacked the speed to outperform analog ones—a scenario that only changed in 2012.
In 2005, Metrix launched the TXR/TXA digital system, which was not yet suitable for high-speed turbocharged machines. In 2012, the Digital Proximity System (DPS) emerged. Four years later, Metrix introduced a field-configurable DPS, API 670-compliant, and capable of operating across the entire temperature range. Thousands of these systems are currently in operation worldwide, demonstrating the impact of recent developments in digital proximity systems.
Driver and transmitter: essential functions
O MX2033 Driver was designed for vibration monitoring systems, while the MX2034 Transmitter integrates with control systems such as PLCs and SCADA. Both are compatible with probes and cables from different manufacturers. Furthermore, the Driver offers mV/μm output according to API 670, and the transmitter provides static current and dynamic signal output, facilitating integration with ISA 4-20 mA standards.
Proven and flexible technology
Metrix's DPS combines high performance with digital flexibility. Users can configure transducers in the field, adjusting custom curves and pre-configured calibrations for different probes, manufacturers, cables, target materials, and linear ranges.
Practical application cases
Metrix produces equipment that incorporates these advances and delivers concrete results. Customers report savings and efficiency gains.
Methanol Producer
A plant was experiencing frequent shutdowns in a critical machine train. After installing Metrix impact, rod drop, and speed transmitters, the team identified a fault in the compressor valves. The replacement eliminated the interruptions and normalized the signals.
Energy company
During a transition from coal-fired to gas-fired boilers, a company upgraded its systems with Metrix's DPS. Even using legacy equipment, the flexible, linear, and precise solution was installed without interrupting operations, fully meeting the plant's needs.
If you want to ensure the best performance from your equipment, take advantage of the benefits of recent developments in digital proximity systems from MetrixEven if you don't plan to upgrade, it's crucial to understand how this technology has evolved. For more information, contact us today.
Content adapted from an article published in metrixvibration.com
