Description
Bently Nevada 102046-50 Eddy Current Proximity Sensor
The Bently Nevada 102046-50, also cataloged as the 102046 Eddy Current Proximity Sensor, operates as a dedicated hardware component for non-contact shaft displacement and vibration measurement within Bently Nevada 3300 XL and 3500 Machinery Protection System networks. The sensor assembly provides continuous analog position feedback derived from eddy-current interaction between the probe tip and conductive shaft surfaces.
Hardware Specifications
| Parameter |
Specification |
| Model |
102046-50 |
| Brand |
Bently Nevada |
| Origin |
United States |
| Product Type |
Eddy Current Proximity Sensors |
| Sensor Type |
Eddy current proximity probe |
| Probe Tip Diameter |
8 mm |
| Output Signal |
-2 VDC to -18 VDC linear range |
| Supply Voltage |
-24 VDC |
| Frequency Response |
DC to 10 kHz (-3 dB) |
| Cable Length |
5 m or 9 m |
| Operating Temp |
-40 deg C to +177 deg C |
| Weight |
0.60 lbs |
| Calibration |
Factory calibrated with certificate |
| Compliance |
API 670 4th Edition, ISO 20816 |
| Measurement Functions |
Shaft vibration, axial position, displacement |
Eddy-Current Probe Scaling and Gap Voltage Validation
The sensor system operates through high-frequency eddy-current interaction between the probe tip and the monitored metallic target surface. Output voltage varies according to probe gap distance and is processed by compatible Bently Nevada monitoring hardware.
During commissioning, gap voltage verification is typically adjusted toward nominal -10 VDC operating targets to maintain linear shaft displacement measurement range. Probe extension cable length and driver calibration must remain matched to preserve scaling accuracy and frequency response characteristics.
Shield continuity between the probe cable, extension cable, and proximitor assembly is required to minimize electrical cross-talk and transient interference from adjacent rotating equipment wiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 102046-50 compatible with both 3300 XL and 3500 monitoring systems?
A: The sensor is designed for integration with compatible Bently Nevada proximity transducer interfaces used within 3300 XL and 3500 platform architectures.
Q: Can the probe cable length be modified in the field?
A: No. Probe system calibration depends on matched cable and driver characteristics. Unauthorized cable modification alters transducer scaling and gap voltage response.
Q: What occurs if the probe gap exceeds the calibrated linear range?
A: Output voltage moves outside the specified linear operating region, resulting in reduced displacement measurement accuracy and possible monitor alarm conditions.
