Bently Nevada 3500-20 Technical Overview

The Bently 3500-20 is a high-reliability machinery protection module from Bently Nevada’s 3500 series, designed for continuous monitoring and safeguarding of critical rotating equipment in industrial and energy sectors. Below are its key specifications, features, and typical applications.

Technical Specifications

• Module Type: Vibration monitoring and protection module (part of the 3500 rack-based system).
• Input Channels:
  • Accepts signals from eddy-current proximity probes, accelerometers, or velocity sensors.
  • Configurable for radial vibration, axial position, or speed measurement.
• Signal Processing:
  • Dynamic range optimized for low-to-high frequency vibration analysis.
  • Real-time waveform and phase data output.
• Communication Interfaces:
  • Ethernet (TCP/IP) for integration with plant DCS/SCADA systems.
  • Modbus RTU/TCP protocol support for legacy compatibility.
• Power Supply:
  • Integrated with the 3500 rack backplane; redundant power options available.
• Environmental Ratings:
  • Rugged design for operation in high-vibration, high-temperature, and corrosive environments.

Key Features

• Advanced Diagnostics:
  • Continuous monitoring of vibration amplitude, phase, and trends.
  • Programmable alarm thresholds (alert, danger) with relay outputs.
• Flexible Configuration:
  • Customizable parameters via Bently Nevada’s System 1® software.
  • Supports multi-channel synchronization for complex machinery analysis.
• Redundancy & Reliability:
  • Hot-swappable design for minimal downtime during maintenance.
  • Built-in self-test functions for sensor and channel integrity checks.
• Compatibility:
  • Seamless integration with Bently Nevada’s 3500/40M or 3500/42M display modules.

Application Scenarios

1. Power Generation:
   • Turbine (steam, gas, hydro) vibration monitoring and trip protection.
   • Generator shaft eccentricity and bearing health assessment.
2. Oil & Gas:
   • Compressor and pump vibration analysis to prevent catastrophic failures.
   • Pipeline turbo-machinery condition monitoring.
3. Industrial Manufacturing:
   • Rolling mill motor and gearbox protection.
   • Fan, blower, and centrifugal machinery health management.
4. Marine & Offshore:
   • Propulsion engine and auxiliary equipment vibration surveillance.

Compliance & Certifications

• Safety Standards:
  • IEC 61508 (SIL 2/3) for functional safety compliance.
  • ATEX/IECEx certification for hazardous area deployment.
• Industry Certifications:
  • CE, UL, and RoHS compliant.

The Bently 3500-20 is engineered to ensure operational safety and equipment longevity in mission-critical environments. For detailed configuration or troubleshooting, consult Bently Nevada’s technical manuals or authorized service partners.