Posted to News on 3rd Sep 2026, 09:00
Proximity probe sensor provides optimum performance and outstanding flexibility
Machine monitoring applications, especially in harsh environments where systems demand, effective and reliable measuring of shaft vibration, position and speed on rotating plant. Sensonics offers an established range of proximity probes including a configurable universal driver option the Senturion X eddy current proximity probe system (XPR04 Series). With the XED04 driver it is suitable for all standard probe cable length combinations.
This sensor incorporates a calibrated probe, extension cable and driver and performs non-contact distance measurement targeting a rotating machine shaft utilising the eddy current principle. This combination forms a tuned circuit while the target material and variations in probe face to target distance are detected in this circuit by the driver.
This type of measurement system provides a linearised voltage output proportional to target gap with a API670 standard nominal sensitivity of 7.87mV/um for 2.5mm measurement range (or extended range version 3.94mV/m for 4mm measurement range).
The driver unit offers DIP switch selectable system lengths of 5m, 7m or 9m, with a front panel green LED indicating the selected option. This provides flexibility on-site when installing the system, where it can be the case that different system lengths are required for various machine locations, with the additional benefit of minimising the spares holding.
The gap voltage monitoring socket assists with commissioning the probe system; a voltmeter can be connected directly to the driver through the 3.5mm standard audio socket to display the gap voltage at the point of installation, while the probe mechanical gap can then be adjusted to suite the application.
The cable system incorporates snap lock connectors which require no torquing and provide a shake proof solution important for heavy industrial applications. The double screened cable offers robustness in combination with high immunity to interference and optional stainless steel convoluted armour is available for applications or environments where cable protection is paramount.
These proximity probes are designed to excel in demanding environments, full compliance to the API 670 standard ensures compatibility with third-party API670 compliant machine protection systems. Reliability of the system is underlined by Functional Safety certification to IEC 61508 SIL 2 as a single probe system. For applications within hazardous areas where there is potential for explosive gases or dusts, Ex i intrinsically safe versions are available with ATEX/UKEX/IECEx/PESO certification.
The universal driver concept follows on from other universal hardware platforms developed by Sensonics, such as the Sentry G3 monitoring and protection system which offers a single hardware platform for all the necessary turbine and pump vibration and supervisory measurements. Reducing spares holding and field upgradability is a key advantage of adopting this latest generation of equipment.
