Vibration sensor with CANopen interface for mobile machines
September 2026Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Keeping an eye on the mobile machine status
Whether it is an imbalance in the rotating blades of a mowing machine, or cavitation or foreign objects in mobile drainage pumps, these issues impact critical components. If they go unnoticed, they can cause costly damage and extended downtime.
Convenient and informative
The VMB301 3-axis condition monitoring sensor from ifm is designed for use in mobile applications, and can be seamlessly integrated into the vehicle network and ifm’s system portfolio, thanks to its CANopen interface. The integrated 120 ohm bus resistor can optionally be activated or deactivated via CANopen. This reduces costs and increases flexibility.
Comprehensive condition monitoring
Once integrated, the VMB301 transmits a large number of proven condition indicators in real time: Fatigue (v-RMS), mechanical friction (a-RMS), shocks (a-Peak), mechanical stresses (d-Peak2Peak), statistical bearing wear (crest) and surface temperature. The innovative BearingScout for bearing analysis and dynamic unbalance measurement completes the VMB301’s range of features as a standalone condition monitoring solution for mobile machines.
For remote monitoring, the condition and machine data can be transmitted via radio modem to mobile IoT, ifm’s IIoT platform for mobile machines.
Electrostatic spark discharge – when static strikes back Wearcheck
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
WearCheck technical manager, Steven Lumley explains how static electricity accumulates in modern low-conductivity lubricants, why compact system designs and fine filtration make ESD more likely, and how to recognise the degradation it leaves behind.
Read more...High-speed cameras for crash testing Horne Technologies
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Vision Research has expanded its Phantom C-series with two cameras optimised for crash and safety testing, offering 4 and 8 megapixel sensors rated to 170G, up to 1180 frames per second, and Phantom Academy application training planned for South Africa next year.
Read more...SKF extends remanufacturing expertise to bearing clearance modification SKF South Africa
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Using its clearance modification expertise, SKF helped a mining equipment OEM salvage spherical roller bearing inventory that would otherwise have been scrapped, confirming a new capability within its remanufacturing services and avoiding redundant procurement.
Read more...When maintenance-system compliance starts replacing plant reliability Wearcheck
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
WearCheck ARC division manager, Annemie Willer argues that the greatest threat to effective maintenance is no longer a lack of technology, but the gradual replacement of technical judgement by CMMS compliance, leaving no one owning the machine.
Read more...Inductive ring sensors monitor material flow in feeding technology ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
ifm’s inductive ring sensors detect metallic parts such as screws and nuts as they pass through tubes at speeds up to 35 m/s, enabling precise counting, flow control and blockage detection, with sensitivity and output functions configurable via IO-Link.
Read more...Nitration: the acid you didn’t see coming Wearcheck
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Nitration is as destructive as oxidation in many engines but far less understood. WearCheck technical manager, Steven Lumley explains how nitrogen oxide gases degrade lubricants, why the process is difficult to detect, and what oil analysis can reveal before damage occurs.
Read more...KSB makes mechanical seals for its own pumps and other brands
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
KSB Pumps and Valves is expanding its range of mechanical seals to fit its own pumps and competitor brands. The portfolio covers component and cartridge seals, API 682-compliant systems, slurry and high-pressure seals, and ATEX-certified solutions, supported by refurbishment and field service capabilities.
Read more...Omniflex delivers ICCP systems in London Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Omniflex has supplied impressed current cathodic protection systems for landmark London buildings, protecting reinforced concrete from corrosion and extending the service life of commercial, retail and heritage sites.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version