When Vibration Data Must Survive Extreme Heat
A gas plant compressor is running hot, and the vibration signal keeps dropping out. The accelerometer is rated for high temperature, but the cable fails first. Engineers need a sensor and cable that survive the same environment. The Vibro Meter CA202 piezoelectric accelerometer solves that problem. This Ex version with 3 m integral cable carries part number 144-202-000-106.
What the CA202 Accelerometer Does
The CA202 is a piezoelectric accelerometer from the vibro-meter product line. It uses a symmetrical shear-mode polycrystalline measuring element with internal case insulation. The sensor sits in an austenitic stainless-steel case. A low-noise integral cable runs through a flexible stainless-steel protection hose, hermetically welded to the sensor. The result is a sealed, leaktight assembly. This design suits heavy-duty industrial vibration monitoring in harsh environments.
Key Specifications That Matter
The 100 pC/g sensitivity gives a strong charge output for reliable signal transmission. The frequency response of 0.5 to 6000 Hz covers most rotating machinery. The dynamic measurement range spans 0.01 to 400 g peak, with overload capacity up to 500 g peak. Linearity stays within ±1% from 0.01 to 20 g and ±2% from 20 to 400 g. The sensor operates continuously from −55 to +260°C. The integral cable handles −55 to +200°C. Temperature sensitivity error is 0.25%/°C below 23°C and 0.1%/°C above. The hermetically welded assembly resists 100% relative humidity, water, steam, oil, and sea-salt atmospheres.
Where the CA202 Fits
This accelerometer targets industrial vibration monitoring in hazardous areas. Ex versions are certified for potentially explosive atmospheres. Standard versions serve non-hazardous areas. Typical uses include compressors, turbines, and pumps in oil and gas facilities. The 144-202-000-106 suits offshore platforms where salt spray and humidity attack unprotected sensors. The stainless-steel protection hose shields the cable from mechanical damage and heat.
Installation and Integration
Mount the sensor with four M6 × 35 Allen screws and four M4 spring-lock washers. Tighten to 15 Nm. The connector terminates with flying leads. The CA202 needs a charge converter, such as the IPC70x signal conditioner, to process the charge output. The 2-pin system is insulated from the case. When wiring into a monitoring network, confirm cables and any gateways with your supplier. For hands-on technical selection help, contact Oil AutoTech.
Maintenance and Reliability
Inspect the sensor and cable periodically for mechanical damage. Check mounting torque and cable routing. The hermetically sealed assembly resists contaminants, but physical abuse can breach the protection hose. Follow the manufacturer’s safety manual for all maintenance. For Ex installations, adhere to local hazardous-area regulations. Oil AutoTech supplies ready-to-ship spares for oil, gas, and industrial automation. Contact Oil AutoTech today for pricing and availability.
Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with Oil AutoTech before ordering.
