Introduction
Industrial vibration monitoring has evolved from simple periodic checks to continuous, high-fidelity measurement in the most demanding environments. The 144-280-000-015 Vibro Meter CA280 piezoelectric accelerometer represents that evolution. Built on Parker Meggitt’s vibro-meter® platform, it delivers the sensitivity and ruggedness needed for low-amplitude analytical work and hazardous-area installations.
Product Overview
The CA280 is a symmetrical shear-mode piezoelectric accelerometer housed in a hermetically welded AISI 316L stainless-steel case. It provides a charge output of 100 pC/g ±5% and requires no input power. The sensor is available as a sensor-only unit or with an integral low-noise cable protected by a flexible stainless-steel hose. All versions are Ex certified for potentially explosive atmospheres.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | 100 pC/g ±5% |
| Dynamic measurement range | 0.01 to 500 g peak |
| Frequency response | 0.5 to 6000 Hz ±5% |
| Resonant frequency | >20 kHz nominal |
| Operating temperature | −60 to +260 °C continuous |
| Short-term survival | −70 to +290 °C (15 min max) |
| Case material | AISI 316L stainless steel |
| Mounting | Three M4 × 16 Allen screws, 4 Nm |
| Weight (sensor head) | 75 g approx. |
| Input power | None |
These parameters mean the CA280 captures very small vibrations across a wide frequency band while withstanding extreme temperatures. The 100 pC/g charge output pairs with a charge converter such as the IPC70x signal conditioner.
Applications and Integration
In oil and gas facilities, the CA280 monitors critical machinery in hazardous areas where standard sensors cannot operate. Its Ex certification and stainless-steel construction suit harsh industrial environments. For analytical vibration work, the high sensitivity and low base-strain sensitivity (0.8 x 10−3 g/με) enable detection of low-amplitude signals.
The sensor-only version uses a 2-pin connector (vibro-meter® 7/16″-27UNS-2A / CG505) and allows different cable assemblies to match environmental needs. Integral cable versions terminate with flying leads. When integrating into a monitoring system, confirm signal conditioner compatibility and cable requirements with your supplier.
Installation and Maintenance
Mount the CA280 using the three M4 × 16 Allen screws and spring lock washers at 4 Nm torque. Electrical insulation of the mounting surface is not required. For sensor-only versions, mate the connector with a compatible cable assembly. Periodic inspection of mounting torque and cable condition helps maintain measurement accuracy. Follow the manufacturer’s installation manual for vibration measurement chains using CAxxx accelerometers.
Selection Guide
Before ordering, verify whether you need the sensor-only version or an integral cable version, and confirm the required cable length. The CA280 works with vibro-meter® charge converters. For hands-on technical selection help, contact Oil AutoTech. We offer fast-dispatch spares for oil, gas, and industrial automation applications with quick worldwide delivery.
Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with Oil AutoTech before ordering.
