Bently Nevada AS3100S2-Z2 IEPE Case Mounted Accelerometer

Bently Nevada AS3100S2-Z2 IEPE Accelerometer – Powered Vibration Sensing

Product Introduction

The AS3100S2-Z2 differs from passive piezoelectric sensors because it includes an internal current regulating diode. This design requires an external voltage source from 18 to 30 Vdc. Many modern vibration monitors directly supply this power through the same coaxial cable. Consequently, installation becomes simpler while signal quality remains high. This model works exceptionally well on gas turbines, large pumps, and high-speed compressors.

Key Dynamic Specifications

The AS3100S2-Z2 delivers a sensitivity of 100 mV/g ±5% at 25°C. Its acceleration range reaches 80 g peak, with amplitude nonlinearity held to just 1%.

Frequency response at ±10% spans 1.0 to 5,000 Hz. For broader applications, the ±3 dB window covers 0.5 to 10,000 Hz. Resonant frequency is 22 kHz, which keeps measurements accurate well below structural resonances.

Transverse sensitivity stays at a maximum of ±5% of axial reading. Temperature response shifts by -20% at -55°C and +10% at +120°C. Therefore, you can deploy this sensor across extreme thermal environments without losing signal integrity.

Electrical Characteristics You Must Know

Unlike passive models, the AS3100S2-Z2 requires power. The voltage source must be between 18 and 30 Vdc. Its current regulating diode operates from 2 to 10 mA.

Broadband electrical noise measures 700 μg from 2.5 Hz to 25 kHz. Spectral noise density drops to 10 μg/√Hz at 10 Hz, and further down to 5 μg/√Hz at both 100 Hz and 1,000 Hz. These low noise floors allow precise measurements on lightly loaded machinery.

Output impedance is a maximum of 100 Ω. Bias output voltage sits at 12 Vdc. The case is electrically isolated and internally shielded, which eliminates ground loop problems in complex control cabinets.

Environmental Ruggedness

This sensor handles a temperature range from -55°C to 120°C. It survives vibration limits of 500 g peak and shock limits of 5,000 g peak. Such high tolerances make the AS3100S2-Z2 suitable for gearbox testing and high-impact punch presses.

Electromagnetic sensitivity is rated at only 70 μg/gauss, which is excellent for installations near variable frequency drives. Furthermore, the sealing is hermetic, preventing moisture ingress. Base strain sensitivity stays at a maximum of 0.002 g/μstrain, so mounting on thin-walled structures will not produce false signals.

Physical Construction and Connector Details

The sensing element uses PZT ceramic in a shear design. This configuration reduces base strain and temperature transient errors. Case material is 316L stainless steel, offering superior corrosion resistance in offshore or chemical environments.

Weight is 145 grams. Mounting uses a standard 1/4-28 UNF tapped hole. The connector is side exit, 2-pin, MIL-C-5015 style, which is rugged and widely available.

Recommended cabling is shielded twisted pair, with a maximum length of 100 feet. Longer runs may introduce signal attenuation or noise pickup.

Pinout and Wiring Guide

• Shell: Ground

• Pin A: Power and signal (18-30 Vdc / IEPE output)

• Pin B: Common (return)

Connect the shell to machine ground for best noise performance. For isolated mounting, leave the shell floating, but note that internal shielding remains active.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use the AS3100S2-Z2 with a standard vibration data collector that does not provide IEPE power?
No. This sensor requires 18-30 Vdc power. Most modern data collectors have an IEPE mode you can enable. If yours does not, you will need an inline signal conditioner.

2. What happens if I exceed the 100 feet cable length recommendation?
Signal attenuation and high-frequency roll-off will increase. Additionally, electrical noise may become noticeable. For longer runs, use a line driver or move the monitor closer.

3. Is the AS3100S2-Z2 a direct replacement for my existing Bently Nevada 330400 series?
Not directly. The mounting thread (1/4-28 UNF) and connector style differ. However, adapters are available. Please check your existing mounting hole size before ordering.

4. How do I know if the sensor is working correctly after installation?
Measure the bias voltage between Pin A and Pin B. A healthy AS3100S2-Z2 shows 10 to 14 Vdc. If you see 0 Vdc or supply voltage, check for wiring shorts or an open circuit.

5. What shipping carriers do you use for international orders?
We use FedEx, UPS, and DHL exclusively. Delivery typically takes 3 to 7 business days. All shipments are fully insured and trackable.