ˆ 1711 Townhurst Dr.

, Houston, TX 77043-2899
Tel: 713-461-2131 or 713-299-4029 (after hours)
e-mail: [email protected] Fax: 713-461-8223

INSTALLATION AND OPERATING MANUAL

MODEL 440/450 ELECTRONIC SWITCH

The 440/450 switch is a versatile excessive vibration protec-

tion instrument. In the standard configuration, the 440/450 is an
economical single setpoint vibration switch in an industrial
grade housing. Fully configured, the model 440/450 provides,
real time remote operator interface via the 4-20 mA outputs
and an external BNC for easy access to the buffered dynamic
vibration signal. Optional CE mark modifications are avail-
able to meet electromagnetic compatibility requirements.

Features
„ Low cost, protection system
„ Weatherproof environments
„ Single or optional dual setpoint
„ Velocity or displacement response
„ Adjustable time delay
„ Alarm or Shutdown “self-test” capability
„ Optional buffered, dynamic vibration signal
output for analysis

Applications
„ Centrifugal Pumps
„ Reciprocating Compressors
„ Centrifuges
Reset push-button
„ Cooling Towers
„ Industrial Fans
„ Electric Motors BNC for signal analysis
„ Natural Gas/Diesel Engines

90018-031 03/05 ERO 9330

 INDEX

Section 1.0 General Description

1.1 Introduction
1.2 Protection of Rotating and Reciprocating Machinery
1.3 Summary of Capabilities
1.4 Panel Controls
1.5 Specifications
1.6 Safety Warning

Section 2.0 Mechanical Installation

2.1 Orientation
2.2 Mounting Surface
2.3 Temperature Considerations
2.4 Cable/Wire
2.5 Sealing Outline Drawings

Section 3.0 Electrical Installation

3.1 Wiring to the Vibration Switch
3.1.1 AC Power
3.1.2 Shutdown Circuit
3.1.3 Remote Reset
3.1.4 Lockout Option
3.1.5 4-20 mA Output

3.2 Functional Description and Installation Considerations

3.2.1 Alarm or Shutdown
3.2.1.1 Units with Triacs
3.2.1.2 Units with Analog Switch
3.2.2 Wiring for N.O. or N.C.
3.2.3 Remote Reset/Latch
3.2.4 Lockout Option
3.2.5 4-20 mA Output

3.3 Special Considerations

3.3.1 Light Loads
3.3.2 DC Applications
3.3.3 170 mA Analog Switch Option Wiring Diagram

Section 4.0 Control Settings

4.1 Setting Trip Points
4.2 Setting of Time Delay
4.3 Test Mode
4.4 Alarm and Shutdown LEDs

Application Notes
Mounting PMC/BETA Electronic Switches

CE Information

Outline & Dimensions

Wiring Diagram

90018-031 Page 2
1.0 General Description

1.1 Introduction

The single setpoint model contains one trip limit for shutdown. The optional dual setpoint model contains two
independent trip limits; one for alarm and one for shutdown. Shutdown trip is set in inches per second (velocity
model) or mils (displacement model). Alarm trip is set as a percentage of shutdown. In addition, a 4-20 mA
output proportional to vibration level is provided.

The 440 and 450 performance, wiring, and specifications are identical except for the enclosure. The 440 meets
NEMA 3, 4 and 12. The 450 meets these and certain explosion proof specifications.

1.2 Protection of Rotating and Reciprocating Machinery

a) A system is required which is responsive to faults which:

1) present themselves as low frequency vibrations such as imbalance, misalignments, defective sleeve bearings,
broken tie down bolts, etc.

2) present themselves as higher frequency vibrations such as defective ball or roller bearings, gear mesh, blade
pass frequencies, and in the case of reciprocating machinery, detonation and broken parts.

Velocity is the optimum parameter for both high and low frequencies, since it is equally sensitive to both.
Acceleration (as with mechanical switches) is over sensitive to the high frequencies and very insensitive to the
low frequencies.

On machines operating at very low RPM (100 - 200 RPM), displacement may also be suitable.

b) Time delay is absolutely essential in any usable vibration monitor. Virtually all machines will exhibit high
vibration for several seconds during startup. If time delay is not provided, the operator must turn up the trip point
to get thru startup. The resultant setting will be too high to provide protection during normal running. This is one
reason there are so many cases where machines with mechanical type vibration switches have not tripped.
Time delay is included in the Solid State Model 440.

1.3 Summary of Capabilities

Refer to section 1.4

a) Trip is based on vibration severity. The internal sensor (unless the external sensor option has been purchased)
is a piezoelectric crystal with built-in microelectronics to reduce noise sensitivity. The output signal is electronically
integrated to measure and trip on velocity or displacement.

b) Calibrated setpoint controls permit adjusting setpoints to known values of vibration level. Shutdown setpoint
range is in velocity. Alarm setpoint is calibrated 10% to 90% of shutdown setpoint.

c) 4-20 mA output provides continuous monitoring capability on a milliammeter or a programmable controller for
data logging or alarm. The 4 mA will be present even when there is no vibration, thus demonstrating the unit is
functioning. The 4-20 mA output is normalized to the shutdown setpoint. Therefore, the output can be directly
calibrated as a percent of setpoint.

d) A solid-state relay (triac) is provided with contacts that are optically isolated from the input power. The
optional dual setpoint has two triacs. Each triac is independently settable for open on alarm or close on alarm.
Optional analog switches or mechanical relays are available.

e) Adjustable (2-15 seconds) time delay is standard. This prevents false tripping on high startup vibrations and
also from non-repetitive transient events.

90018-031 Page 3
 f) Self test and calibration.
A light adjacent to the setpoint control comes on the instant the measured vibration level exceeds the setpoint.
The unit can be periodically calibrated on line, by turning the setpoint control down until the light comes on. This
setting is then compared with the vibration measured with a portable vibration meter, thus providing a calibration
check of the unit. If this setting is maintained, trip will occur after the duration of the time delay.
1.4 PANEL CONTROL

Calibrated setpoint controls Light comes on immediately when vibration

enable operator to set specific exceeds setpoint (alarm or shutdown will trip
velocity trip points. after 3 second time delay).

Adjustable time delay of 2-15 seconds.

Factory set at 3 seconds.

Test position sets in minimum setpoint so that any vibration will cause trip condition. Light will come on imme-
diately, and trip will occur after duration of the time delay, proving that the complete system is operational. If test
position is maintained for less than the duration of the time delay, trip will not occur, thus permitting system test
without shutdown.

VDE approved terminal strip accepts

#12 wire. Screw adjustable clamp-
ing yoke rather than screw terminal
permits easy, vibration proof connec- The triac or analog switch is independently field
tion. All hardware is captive. settable to open on alarm (N.C.) or close on
alarm (N.O.)

90018-031 Page 4
Specifications

Model No. 440S 440S-R 440D 440D-R

One: for alarm or shutdown. Set in in/sec Two: One for alarm and one for shutdown. Shutdown set
No. of Trips
(velocity model) or mils (displacement model) in in/sec (velocity model) or mils (displacement model).
Alarm set as percent of shutdown.

± 10% accuracy over 4-20 mA DC ± 10% accuracy over 4-20 mA DC

range. range.
Dependant: 4mA is 0 vibration; Dependant: 4mA is 0 vibration;
14mA is setpoint; 20mA is 160% of 14mA is setpoint; 20mA is 160% of
Analog Output setpoint. setpoint.
for Remote Absolute: 4mA is 0 vibration; 20mA Absolute: 4mA is 0 vibration; 20mA
Indication N/A is full cale vibration. N/A is full cale vibration.
Termination load resistance, less Termination load resistance, less
than 450 ohms than 450 ohms

Velocity Setpoint 0.1 to 1.5 in/sec or 0.2 to 3 in/sec peak. Metric ranges: 3 to 40 mm/sec or 6 to 80 mm/sec peak (select one)

Displacement Model 1 to 15 mils or 10 to 150 mils peak to peak. Metric ranges: 30um to 400um or 300um to 4 mm peak to peak (Select
one)

Frequency Range 2 to 1000 Hz (120 to 60,000 RPM)

Time Delay Field adjustable 2-15 sec. Factory set for 3 sec unless specified otherwise

*Alarm or Shutdown Solid-state relay (triac). One in 440S, 44OS-R. Two in 440D, 44OD-R.
Output(s) Insulated (dry) contact
Each triac field settable for close on alarm (N.O.) or open an alarm (N.C.)
5 A continuous, 100 A for 10 msec.
Max. off-state leakage current: 1 rnA
Min holding current: 20 to 50 mA typical
Max voltage across SS relay: 140 VAC (280VAC on 230V input units)

Remote Reset Connection between terminals 5 and 6 latches triac output in alarm state after setpoint is exceeded. Opening the
connection will reset the output to non-alarm state. NOTE: Remote reset is disabled if pushbutton reset option is
selected.

Setpoint Accuracy ±10% of setting with repeatability of ±2%. Circuitry utilizes RMS detector

Vibration Sensitive Axis Perpendicular to base. Unit can be mounted in any orientation without affecting setting

Temp. Limits -20 °F to +140 °F (-30 °C to +60 °C) including internal transducer. -65 °F to +190 °F (-55 °C to +88 °C) for optional
external transducer

Humidity 1% to 100% (non-condensing)

Input Power 100 -130 VAC 50/60 Hz standard. 200 - 260 VAC 50/60 Hz optional. DC input power optional. 440S, 3 Watt. 440D,
4 Watt

Enclosure Rugged, water-tight, dust-tight cast aluminum. Meets NEMA 3, 4 and 12 standards. Optional explosion-proof
Model 450 available.

Weight 3.5 lbs (1.6 Kg)

Mounting 1/4" hardware, 3 mounting bosses

Terminals All terminals will accept #12 AWG wire in clamping type yoke without need for termination hardware. All
hardware is captive.

Self Test Test position on setpoint control and light emitting diode provide functional test of trip circuitry, time delay and
triac closure. Also permits on-line calibration of switch.

Circuitry Proprietary hybrid circuitry throughout for minimum size and maximum reliability in vibration environment.

Remote Transducer The standard 440 includes a built-in transducer. When packaged in an optional separate housing, the transducer
Option is designated Model 160A. The 160A is 1.5 inch diameter by 3 inches high. If the remote transducer option is
desired, it should be ordered at the time the 440 is ordered. To add a 160 transducer option at a later time consult
factory. Explosion-proof Model designated 160E.

90018-031 Page 5
Analog switch option:
Recommended in place of triac for DC operation or light loads such as computer or PLCs.
AC/DC Solid-State
Contacts are optically isolated from input power.
Field settable N.O. or N.C.
170 mA continuous
Maximum off state leakage, 10 micro amps
No holding current required
Maximum voltage: 250 V

Mechanical relay option:

SPDT Version: 8 amp at 250 VAC or 24 VDC

DPDT Version: 1. DPDT, 2 amp each half at 250 VAC or 24 VDC

2. SPDT, 8 amp each half at 250 VAC or 24 VDC

The N.O./N.C. slide switch are not available on the mechanical relay versions.

Additional environment specifications:

Operating Altitude: up to 2000 meters

Main voltage fluctuation: up to ±10%
Approvals: CSA General Safety
CSA Class I Hazardous Environments

1.6 Safety Warning

CAUTION - SHOCK HAZARD 230/110 VOLTS

The terminal block inside the 440 is connected to AC power (110 VAC or 230 VAC depending on model) except DC
input power models.

If adjustments to the device are being made with power applied, exercise caution to avoid contact with the terminal
block screws by any part of the body or electrically conductive tool.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION

Note that if the 440 vibration switch is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by
the unit may be impaired.

90018-031 Page 6
2.0 Mechanical Installation

Refer to reference drawings.

2.1 Orientation

The sensitive vibration “measuring” axis is perpendicular to the base of the unit (vibration switch or transducer).
Always mount the unit such that the desired vibration of the equipment being monitored will occur along this
axis.

2.2 Mounting Surface

Choose or fabricate a solid (rigid) surface (on the equipment being monitored) to mount the vibration switch or
transducer. This will ensure transfer of the vibration to the vibration transducer, while not introducing spurious
vibrations.

In addition, the surface presented to the base of the unit should be flat. Fasten using sturdy hardware at all
places provided.

2.3 Temperature considerations

The switch is designed to dissipate internal heat by conduction through its base. Hence, it is important to keep
the mounting surface below the switch max temperature limit of 140°F. If the equipment being monitored is
going to exceed this limit, consideration should be given to either using one of the remote transducers, or
thermally isolating the switch.

To ensure accurate switch performance, a warm-up time of 5 minutes is recommended.

2.4 Cable/Wiring

The method chosen to electrically connect to the switch or transducer should be mechanically flexible, to eliminate
the measurement of vibration of material not of interest (piping, etc.), and provide a moisture barrier as well.

Although sealtight and other flexible conduit have been used successfully, in areas of extreme humidity or
moisture it is recommended that an “SO” type cable together with a suitable rain-tight CGB fitting be used.

No stress should be possible on the wiring to the terminal block. If such protection is not provided by the conduit
system, some form of stress relief must be installed where the wiring exits the 440.

To assure compatibility with EMC standards, any signal level wiring such as transducer, reset, lockout, or 4-20
mA wiring should utilize shielded cable in EMI proof conduit, separate from any power wiring. The signal conduit
and power-wiring conduit can be connected at the 440-cable entry via a “T” fitting.

2.5 Sealing

In 440 installations where temperature and humidity conditions vary around the dew point, it is important that the
cover plate be evenly and firmly fastened down with the four screws provided.

Although the switch enclosures meet NEMA standards for water tightness, it will do no good if proper sealing of
both cover and wiring entrances are not followed. Please remember that a hollow pipe through which wires may
enter a switch may conduct moisture as well.

3.0 Electrical Wiring

3.1 Wiring to the Vibration Switch

The following sectionss refer to the wiring diagrams at the end of section 3.

90018-031 Page 7
 3.1.1 AC Power (Terminals 1 & 2)

Connect a grounding wire to the grounding screw provided in the switch. This is important for safety as well as
noise. Power only with the AC voltage level indicated on the inner cover label. Orientation of AC power to
terminals 1 and 2 is not important.

3.1.2 Shutdown Circuit (Terminals 3 & 4)

The internal single pole solid state switch, between terminals 3 and 4 is designed to be wired in series with the
external shutdown circuit i.e.; motor starter, relay, contactor, etc. Maximum ratings are found in section 3.2.1.
Also see section 3.2.2.

3.1.3 Remote Reset (Terminals 5 & 6)

Shielded wire is required. To avoid creating ground loops, the N.C. remote switch contacts should be electrically
isolated from other circuits or grounds. See section 3.2.3 for further information. NOTE: Remote reset is
disabled if pushbutton reset option is selected.

3.1.4 Lockout (Optional) (Terminals 5 & 7)

Terminal 7 will be labeled “Lockout”. Shielded wire is recommended. To avoid the possibility of ground loops, the
remote N.O. lockout switch contacts should be electrically isolated from other external circuitry or grounds. See
section 3.2.4 for further information.

3.1.5 4-20 mA Analog Output (Terminals 11 & 12)

To avoid the possibility of ground loops, the 4-20 mA remote meter terminals should be electrically isolated from
external grounds. Shielded wire is recommended to protect against damage due to long wire runs and the
possibility of high induced voltage spikes from storms, etc. See section 3.2.5. The 4-20 mA output is self-powered
and therefore requires no external power source.

3.1.6 Alarm Circuits (Terminals 13 & 14)

The internal single pole solid state switch between terminals 13 and 14 is designed to be wired in series with the
external alarm circuit i.e.; annunciator, lamp, relay, etc. Maximum ratings are found in section 3.2.1. Also see
section 3.2.2.

3.2 Functional Description and Installation Considerations

3.2.1. Alarm or Shutdown

3.2.1.1 Units with Triacs (identified by Model No. 440DR-XX01-XXXX-XX)

Maximum ratings for the solid state relays used for alarm and shutdown are as follows:

Continuous current 5A
Surge & Overload (Duty cycle less than 1%)
1 second 25 A
16 Millisecond 50 A
1 Millisecond 125 A
Maximum voltage 140 VAC (115V Model)
280 VAC (230V Model)
Maximum off state leakage 1 mA
Isolation 2500 VAC min
Required holding current 50 mA

As you can see from the above specs, these are medium power rated devices and are quite useful in controlling

90018-031 Page 8
 relays, contactors and most motor starters directly. Maximum noise immunity is obtained when used in the open
on alarm (N.C.) mode.

3.2.1.2 Units with Analog Switch in place of Triac (identified by Model NO. 44OD-R XX22-XXXX-XX)

For light loads such as computers or PLCs, the analog switch is easier to interface since it has virtually no
leakage current. The analog switch does not require the 50 mA holding current and operates equally well with
AC or DC.

Maximum ratings are as follows:

Continuous current 170 mA

Maximum voltage 250V
Maximum off state leakage 10 Micro amp
Required holding current None
Isolation 2500V

3.2.2 Open/Close on Alarm

The alarm and shutdown triacs (or analog switches) are independently field settable for N.O. (close on alarm) or
N.C. (open on alarm). The switches are accessible with a non-conductive screwdriver via the inner side panels.

Open on alarm is recommended in installations where triac lines are likely to be noisy, i.e.: large transient
voltage spikes due to unsuppressed relay, solenoid, or other inductive loads.

3.2.3 Remote Reset/Latch

The following paragraphs refer to the wiring diagrams and also section 3.1.3.

3.2.3.1 Auto Reset Mode

In this mode, alarm and shutdown switches are automatically reset to the non-alarm condition when the vibration
level falls below the setpoint.

3.2.3.2 Latch Mode

In this mode, alarm and shutdown switches remain “latched” in alarm (shutdown) condition when the vibration
level exceeds the setpoint for the duration of the time delay. The unit is in this condition when terminal 6 is
connected to terminal 5.

3.2.3.3 Remote Reset Mode

When wired in this mode, the alarm and shutdown switches latch in “trip”, but can be reset to the “non-alarm”
mode by momentarily interrupting the connection from terminal 6 to 5. This can be accomplished with a normally
closed momentary switch. The switch contacts should be isolated from other circuits, potentials or grounds.
NOTE: Remote reset is disabled if pushbutton reset option is selected.

3.2.4 Lockout (optional)

With this option, the shutdown and/or alarm triacs will not be permitted to actuate so long as terminal 7 (lockout)
is connected to terminal 5.

3.2.5 4-20 mA Output

Terminal 12 is labeled “analog” with return (loop) to terminal 11. This “self-powered” loop provides a 4-20 mA
output current proportional to vibration. For dependant option, 4 mA = 0 vibration, 14 mA occurs at whatever
shutdown setpoint has been set, and 20 mA at 160% of shutdown setpoint. This is shown on the following
graph.

90018-031 Page 9
 20
18
16
14
12
10
8
6 SLOPE = 1 mA/10%
4
2
0
100 160

Vibration in % shutdown setpoint

Thus, vibration in % of shutdown setpoint = 10 (mA output - 4) Therefore, each mA above 4 represents 10%
of shutdown setpoint value. Example: Vibration at 13 mA out=10 (13-4)=90% of setpoint. For absolute
option, 4mA = 0 vibration, 20mA = full scale of the switches vibration range.

3.3 Special Considerations

3.3.1 Light Loads

The solid state triacs used in the standard 440 series are a special high transient immunity, medium power type.
Off state leakage is 1 mA max and should not create any problems, even when interfaced with a load as light as
a programmable controller.

Minimum load required to keep the triac on is 20 mA typical and 50 mA max due to the “holding current”
specifications. If the load is less than this, a resistor may have to be placed in parallel with the load, i.e.; for 115
VAC light load (50 mA or less) a 2K-ohm 10 watt power resistor is recommended.

3.3.2 D.C. Loads with triacs

Although most applications use AC input power and AC on the triac outputs (alarm and shutdown), these triacs
may be used in DC applications providing minimum loading requirements are met. See section 3.3.1. When
DC is used, a triac will automatically latch in the “on” condition after trip, thus only “close on alarm” (N.O.) can be
used. To reset an external reset switch, the rest switch must be wired in series with the load. Reset terminals
6 and 5 are not used.

To avoid large voltage drops during DC operation, the triac should be connected as follows:

Shutdown: Term 4 POS Alarm: Term 14 POS

Term 3 NEG Term 13 NEG

3.3.3 120 mA Analog Switch Option

The special requirements of sections 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 do not apply. However, maximum current is limited to 170
mA. (See section 3.2.1.2).

90018-031 Page 10
4.0 CONTROL SETTINGS

4.1 Setting Trip Points

The Model 440D-R provides two trips: one for alarm and one for shutdown.

The first trip (alarm) is set at a vibration alarm level to provide early warning that the condition of the machine is
deteriorating. If the machine condition continues to deteriorate, the shutdown trip provides protection against
catastrophic failure.

The shutdown is set directly in inches/seconds (velocity models) or mils (displacement models). The alarm is
set as a percent of the shutdown setting.

The following will help assist you in determining the proper setpoint.

1. The Warning Level Guide shown below indicates recommended starting points for vibration warning levels,
defined as levels at which abnormal wear is occurring. Vibration analysis is recommended at this level. Different
warning levels are given for different types of machinery.

2. These ranges are typical. Each machine will have its own personality, depending on how it is loaded, the
particular installation, and the tolerances of the machine itself. Thus, you must make the final judgment for your
equipment.

3. Trend information is frequently as meaningful as absolute levels. Thus, an alternate method is to determine
the existing vibration level (this is easily accomplished using a vibration meter such as the PMC 101 or 201) and
setting the trigger between 25% and 50% above this. The 440 itself can be used to determine the existing
vibration level. See section 4.4.

Determine Vibration Warning Levels

1.0 • PACKAGING
MACHINERY

.8 .8
.7 .6
.5 • MOTOR/ GENERATOR SETS
ELECTRIC DRIVEN
• CONVEYORS .5 .5 • CRUSHERS
• FANS/BLOWERS
• HAMMERMILL .5 • ENGINES
(UNLOADED)
VELOCITY (in/sec)

(UNLOADED)
.4 .4 .3 • PUMPS
RECIPROCATING
.3 .2 .3 .2 .2 • MOTOR/GENERATOR SETS:
ENGINE DRIVEN
.2 .1 • COMPRESSORS
• COMPRESSORS
CENTRIFUGAL
.1 • GEAR BOXES
RECIPROCATING
• PUMPS
GEAR
CENTRIFUGAL WHERE TO SET YOUR VIBRATION MONITOR
• ELECTRICAL MOTORS
.05 Typical vibration trip levels are shown for different types of machinery. These trigger limits are recommended
.05 starting points for setting vibration warning levels-defined as levels at which abnormal wear is occurring (vibration
• MACHINE TOOLS analysis with the METRIX Model 208 is recommended at this level).
(UNLOADED)
•TURBINES
These ranges are typical. Each machine will have its own personality, depending on how it is loaded, the particular
installation, and the tolerances of the machine itself.
0 Application Note 803 available from METRIX gives further details.

90018-031 Page 11
 4.2 Setting of Time Delay

An important feature of PMC/BETA switches is the built-in time delay. This prevents triggering of the alarm or
shutdown functions from transient increases in vibration levels. It also avoids shutdown due to transitory vibrations
occurring during start-up.

The time delay is adjustable. It will have been set at the factory for three (3) seconds unless your order
specified otherwise.

The time a vibration must be above setpoint before trip occurs is individually adjustable for shutdown and alarm
from 2 to 15 seconds.

To readjust the time delay, turn the shutdown setpoint (or alarm setpoint for alarm time delay) knob CCW until
the LED illuminates. The time from this point to relay actuation is the time delay. Change the time delay via a
nylon non-conductive screwdriver. Set CW to increase time delay (one complete turn is approximately 0.5
seconds). Then recheck and readjust until the desired time delay is achieved.

4.3 Test Mode

The test position of both shutdown and alarm knobs is used to test the switch functions without the need for
vibration. When the shutdown knob is turned to test, the shutdown LED should immediately illuminate, the 4-20
mA should exceed 20 mA, followed after the delay time by actuation of the shutdown relay. Alarm is similar, but
has no effect on the 4-20 mA out.

If the shutdown or alarm knob is returned to a normal setting before the duration of the time delay has been
exceeded, the LED will come on without energizing the triac.

4.4 Alarm and Shutdown Light Emitting Diodes

Since the LEDs activate instantaneously (before time delay), they can be used to check the machines actual
vibration level, i.e.; slowly decrease shutdown setpoint by turning the setpoint knob counter-clockwise until the
shutdown LED illuminates. Note this setting and return the knob to a higher setting (before time delay runs out).
This is the actual vibration level present.

5.0 System Block Diagram

An internal transducer module consisting of a crystal assembly and integral charge amplifier senses vibration.
Thus, the electrical output of the transducer is a well buffered (low impedance) signal directly proportional to
acceleration (G) of the switch.

The signal goes to a custom hybrid circuit, where, depending on the model, it may pass through one or more
stages of signal conditioning to yield an A.C. signal now proportional to velocity or displacement. This signal in
turn is routed through an amplifier, the gain of which is controlled by the shutdown setpoint.

Next, the signal is processed through a true RMS to DC stage and compared against a preset internal voltage
reference. If the signal level is higher than reference, the shutdown LED is illuminated.

If the voltage level stays above the reference for the duration of the time delay, an output trip occurs and the
shutdown solid-state relay will trip.

Alarm trip is derived in much the same manner, branching from the output of the RMS to DC stage. Likewise the
DC output is directed to the voltage to current hybrid.

90018-031 Page 12
Application Note

Mounting PMC/BETA Electronic Vibration Switches

Where To Mount The Switch

It is desirable to mount the PMC electronic switch (or transducers for remote monitoring systems) on the bearing
housing, since the forces on the rotating member (unbalance, misalignments, bearing wear, aerodynamics,
etc.) reach the outside world through the bearings.

Most bearing housings are curved so it is necessary to attach a bracket with a flat surface for mounting the
switch. If the machine has bolted end plates on the bearings or horizontally split bearing housings, these bolts
can be used to attach the bracket.

When bolt holes are not available or are not suitable, an alternative way is to weld an angle iron bracket similar
to that in the sketch, but oriented so as to straddle the bearing housing similar to:

The best approach is to mount a gusseted bracket.

For most applications 3/8 Inch material (preferably steel) will be suitable.

Senstive Axis

Please note that the electronic vibration switch can be mounted in any orientation without a change in
sensitivity. It senses vibration in a direction perpendicular to its mounting surface.

90018-031 Page 13
Choosing Mounting Direction

The vibration switch can be mounted in the vertical or horizontal direction (or anything in between).

The best way to choose the mounting direction is to measure the vibration level in both directions with a vibration
meter (such as the Metrix 5500) and choose the direction with the highest level. This will usually be horizontal,
since the machine structure is usually less rigid horizontally than vertically.

How Many Monitor Points Per Machine

Anywhere from one to four switches are used per machine (depending on how critical the machine is to the
process or how expensive it is), one on each end of the motor and one on each end of the compressor, fan,
pump or whatever is being driven. If there is a gear box in between, one may be used here also.

It is quite common to use only one switch. In this case, it is best to mount on or near the driven bearing. For
example, if you have a motor and large fan with a bearing on each end of the fan, the fan bearing on the motor
side would be the driven bearing. It will usually see the highest forces and have the highest vibration level.

Mounting At Other Locations

It is not always possible to mount on the bearing. The unit can then be mounted on the bearing pedestal or on
a structural member nearby. Again, it is desirable to survey the machine with a vibration meter. If the level at the
intended location is about the same (within 25 or 50%), it probably will be satisfactory. Of course, the trip setting
would be reduced if the vibration level at the mounting location is smaller than at the bearing. (See Application
Note 803 for information on recommended trigger levels).

90018-031 Page 14
 CE COMPATIBLE 440 VIBRATION SWITCHES

The following notes are applicable to Model 440 Vibration Switches that are configured to meet the
European requirements to bear the CE mark.

1. Safety Approval Category

Model 440 Vibration Switches that bear the CE mark meet the standards for Category III, Pollution
Degree 2 as defined in EN-61010-1: 1993.

The units are rated for single insulation single fault standards with respect to isolation of external signal
or control circuits from power circuits. None of the signal or control circuit wiring connections should be
accessible to an operator.

2. Units Powered by Less Than 50 volts DC

CE certification for units that are configured to be powered by less than 50 volts DC is applicable only for
installation where the output circuits are powered by less than 50 volts RMS or DC.

3. Units With Triac Output Switches

Model 440 Vibration Switches that are built with Triac Output switches and are used to switch AC power
circuits must be operated in the open on alarm (N.C.) mode in order to comply with EC EMC immunity
standards.

4. Connections for Unit Power

In order to meet EC requirements for protective ground wiring, 12AWG should be used and may be
either bare or have green insulation with a yellow stripe. Basic instructions for connection of protective
ground wiring are contained in the body of the Model 440 manual.

90018-031 Page 15
OUTLINE & DIMENSIONS

440 MODEL

SENSITIVE AXIS

44.5 [1.75] 65.1 [2.56]

3/4-14 NPT
44.5 [1.75]
127 [5.00]

108 [4.25] 88.9 [3.50]

71.1 [2.80] 8.9 [.35] 9.5 [.37]

3X Ø7.9 [.31]
88.9 [3.50] 101.6 [4.00]

450 MODEL

152.4 [6.00]

108 [4.25]

108 [4.25]

152.4 [6.00]

4X Ø7.9 [.312]
SENSITIVE AXIS

139.7 [5.50]

76.2 [3.00]

27.9 [1.10]

76.2 [3.00] 3/4-14 NPT

90018-031 Page 16
WIRING DIAGRAM
(FULLY CONFIGURED)

*OPTIONAL LOCKOUT
Inhibits limits when remote lockout contact is closed. Normally used
during start-up.

90018-031 Page 17