Most machine monitoring products fall into one of two categories. The first type of product is an expensive PC-based software package. The second type is a much cheaper, standalone vibration monitor with limited communication capabilities.
Hardy Instruments seeks to fill the gap between these two product categories with its new HI 3600 Machine Monitor. The product is used on both rotating machinery--including motors, fans, pumps, mills, and gearboxes--and reciprocating machinery, such as reciprocating engines, packaging machines, and reciprocating compressors.
The HI 3600 can monitor up to 16 channels for vibration, impact, and rod drop measurement and analysis. The instrument can monitor, trend, and alarm any of the channels. An external software package also can be used to access a buffered output for additional analysis. One of the key features of the instrument is impact monitoring.
"The predecessor to the HI 3600 introduced impact monitoring to the industry," says product manager Jim Ephraim. "Unlike vibration monitoring, impact monitoring can detect intermittent impacts caused by events such as a broken part in a machine, detonations in a reciprocating engine, or liquid in the fuel of a gas compressor."
Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of the HI 3600 is its ability to communicate with virtually any type of control and communication system. The instrument's embedded web server allows remote monitoring, calibration, and setup via a web browser. The system can also initiate e-mail notifications to any type of Internet-enabled computing device including PCs, personal digital assistants, and cell phones.
The Machine Monitor is supplied with an Ethernet port for networking to other devices including all 3000 series Hardy products. As an option, the Ethernet port can support the Modbus TCP protocol. Other network options are ControlNet and Profibus. An optional OPC Server provides seamless communications with HMI packages.
The system has three relay outputs and up to 16 optional 4-20 mA outputs. A DeviceNet scanner port is also provided for connection to DeviceNet I/O. Up to 16 virtual channels can be added to allow monitoring of supplemental parameters such as pressure, temperature, and motor load. Data from these channels is typically received via the DeviceNet port.
The instrument can be purchased as a standalone unit mounted in an enclosure with a keypad and display, or it can be purchased in a configuration suitable for mounting in a customer's control panel.
For more information call 800/821-5831 or visit www.hardyinstruments.com.
