New range of miniature temperature sensors for bearing housings

Citation

(2001), "New range of miniature temperature sensors for bearing housings", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 53 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ilt.2001.01853aad.003

New range of miniature temperature sensors for bearing housings

New range of miniature temperature sensors for bearing housings

Keywords: Sensors, Temperature sensors, Bearings

Raised temperature in bearing housings invariably indicates loss or contamination of the lubricant or bearing wear. Early detection and intervention prevent mechanical failure – enabling planned maintenance with minimal downtime.

Temperature engineering specialist Thermal Detection has announced the introduction of a Miniature Bearing Sensor (MBS) range for monitoring the temperature and condition of white metal bearings on rotating equipment (see Plate 3). Temperature increases are the best indication of lubricant leakage, contamination or bearing wear – and the sensors provide a continuous and accurate measurement of bearing status, diagnosing deterioration and predicting failure. Planned maintenance can then be undertaken when convenient and with minimum downtime.

Plate 3 New Miniature Bearing Sensor (MBS) range from Thermal Detection

Designed for applications in restricted spaces, the MBS range is easily installed, needing only nominal modification to plant. Units can usually be located in prepared slots or recesses in bearing housings and journals, allowing precise monitoring of the temperature of the metal immediately beneath the bearing shoe.

MBS sensors are available in various sizes and types to suit most bearing housings. The standard units are sheathed in 316 stainless steel, copper or brass with diameters from 3.2mm (0.125in.) to 7.0mm (0.275in.) and with lengths of 6.35mm (0.250in.) and 7.6mm (0.299in.). All can be supplied in PTIOO resistance thermometer or thermocouple formats. Oil migration from bearing housings along the sensor leads can also be prevented by the provision of a suitable gland.

Thermal Detection has a dedicated production facility for miniature bearing sensors which enables it to offer short lead times for standard MBS units.

Established in 1982, Thermal Detection is a global supplier of temperature engineering solutions and is accredited to BS EN ISO 9002. Originally serving the pharmaceutical, petrochemical and offshore industries, the company now also designs, manufactures and supplies an extensive range of temperature sensors for most industrial applications.

Thermal Detection offers a wide range of temperature sensor assemblies which includes pharmaceutical autoclave air/drain and chamber/load probes and the "Steriprobe" autoclave chamber/load probe, heavy-, medium- and light-duty industrial temperature sensors, spring-loaded inserts, high- and very high-temperature furnace sensors and many other sensor assembly types that are dedicated to particular industrial applications, including sensor accessories and process instrumentation.

For further information, please contact: Thermal Detection Ltd, Wellington Court, Preston Farm Business Park, Stockton-on-Tees TS18 3TA, UK. Tel +44 (0)1642 602878; Fax: +44 (0)1642 618307; Web site: www.thermal-detection.com