NI embedded monitoring products minimise downtime
December 2012
Sensors & Transducers
National Instruments has announced two new products to help engineers monitor machines, heavy equipment and ageing infrastructure. Engineers can integrate the wireless sensor network (WSN) strain node and C Series module with NI CompactRIO for predictive maintenance to predict faults, analyse fatigue, lower operating costs and decrease downtime.
“With NI wireless sensor networks and the new WSN strain node, we can easily monitor critical structures without excessive cables,” said Sharon L. Wood, professor and department chair of civil, architectural and environmental engineering at The University of Texas. “We use WSN nodes that are programmable with LabVIEW for onboard analysis of strain data to achieve an in-depth understanding of structural response.”
The NI WSN-3214 strain/bridge completion node features hardware-timed waveform acquisition and is ideal for wireless structural health monitoring of bridges, buildings and equipment. Features include:
* Four analog input channels that support quarter, half and full-bridge completion.
* Two digital I/O channels for event detection and programmatic control.
* Ability to perform onboard data processing, save data locally, or predict fault conditions with the NI LabVIEW WSN module.
With expanded voltage range, faster sampling rates and higher integrated electronic piezoelectric (IEPE) excitation, the NI 9232 C Series module is a data acquisition card optimised for industrial accelerometers, tachometers and proximity probes in condition monitoring applications. Features include:
* ±30 V input range, 4 mA IEPE current excitation and 41 kHz bandwidth.
* Screw terminals and open/short sensor detection for use in permanent industrial monitoring applications.
Further reading:
Technology and education are critical to advancing safety in the mining sector
Sensors & Transducers
As mining operations across Africa continue to evolve in scale, complexity and automation, the role of advanced safety technologies has become increasingly important in protecting people, equipment and productivity.
Read more...
Image processing cameras
Vepac Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
The intelligent camera series from Vepac is an integrated camera module consisting of a camera and high speed processor. It offers a high-performance image sensing function at the edge device by embedding standard image processing software or the customer’s developed software.
Read more...
OMRON launches non-contact safety door switch
Omron Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
OMRON has unveiled its latest innovation in non-contact safety door switches, designed to enhance workplace safety and streamline machinery operations.
Read more...
Conductivity sensing as a cornerstone of South Africa’s water smart industry
ifm - South Africa
Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
South Africa’s engineers operate at the intersection of resource constraint and industrial ambition. Few parameters illustrate this balancing act as clearly as water quality. Whether in municipal treatment works, food and beverage plants or mining operations, the ability to measure water quality accurately and continuously has become non-negotiable.
Read more...
Futureproofing pharma, one pixel at a time
Omron Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, there’s no room for error. Omron’s FH-AI and FHV7-AI vision systems introduce AI-powered inspection that adapts to real-world variability, something conventional rule-based vision systems cannot easily achieve.
Read more...
Distance sensor for confined spaces
ifm - South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
The O6D100 from ifm has been designed as a powerful all-rounder for typical applications in object detection, distance measurement and positioning.
Read more...
Long-range laser distance measuring sensor
Vepac Electronics
Sensors & Transducers
The MS-100A is a long-range laser distance measuring sensor with a range of 150 to 1000 mm. This sensor excels in applications requiring extended measurement capabilities, such as quality control and logistics.
Read more...
Listening for damage to wind turbines
Sensors & Transducers
The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits, working in concert with the Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems, has developed a solution that can be used to identify cracks and breakage inside wind turbine blades remotely at an early stage.
Read more...
Verification using Heartbeat Technology is a breeze
Endress+Hauser South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Heartbeat Technology reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio.
Read more...
Enhancing efficiency and reliability in the energy sector
VEGA Controls SA
Sensors & Transducers
VEGA offers practical, reliable solutions through specialised measuring instruments and deep industry know-how, all tailored to help energy companies keep costs under control while meeting strict regulatory standards.
Read more...
printer friendly version