How to Choose the Right NI Monitoring Device for Your Condition-Based Maintenance Program

The two main classifications of NI monitoring devices are continuous and wireless. 

Continuous Monitoring Systems	Wireless NI Monitoring Devices
Continuous Monitoring Systems have sensor-specific modules and onboard processing, so you can tailor the measurement system to your asset and needs.	The 12-channel Wireless Vibration Measurement Device connects wired, analog sensors to the InsightCM condition monitoring software running on your IT network.	The Wireless Vibration Sensor has an integrated triaxial accelerometer as well as a temperature sensor. It wirelessly transmits data back to InsightCM.

Continuous Monitoring Systems are built on a rugged measurement system and feature slots for sensor-specific modules. These devices combine a processing element, sensor measurements, and InsightCM application software to continuously (24x7) acquire and screen data from the connected analog sensors. Their architecture helps you detect alarm limit excursions and operating state changes in near real time.

You may need Continuous Monitoring Systems if you have:

• Difficult-to-reach assets lacking planned startup/shutdown shifts such as peaking plants, backup generators, or auxiliary-only assets in processing or manufacturing plants
• Assets that have more dynamic operating states (run at different rates based on process) or equipment that experiences dynamic loads of diagnostic interest throughout operation such as crushers, shredders, grinders, conveyor belts, and so on
• A requirement for many data sets
• Sensor-related requirements such as many sensors, a large mix of sensor types, or unique sensor technologies that are not traditionally supported
• A requirement for high-speed (Fmax) measurements and faster detection of alarm conditions for earlier diagnostics on more critical equipment that may be difficult to repair if damage goes unnoticed

Wireless NI monitoring devices are designed to wirelessly transmit diagnostic (waveform) data from wired analog sensors to an NI gateway and then to the InsightCM Server that is connected via your enterprise IT network. Wireless monitoring devices, when battery powered, dramatically reduce installation cost by eliminating the need for running cable/conduit for power and Ethernet.

 You may need wireless NI monitoring devices if you have:

• Assets you would like to monitor more often than your existing route schedule but not so critical or dynamic that you need 24x7 data screening
• Assets in remote, difficult, or hazardous-to-reach locations (ladder climbs, elevated catwalks, tight passageways, large vertical pumps)
• Assets that require wireless NI monitoring devices for
  •    Higher Fmax
  •    Use of standard piezo accelerometers
  •    Measurement of multiple accelerometers across a motor/gearbox train
  •    Connection of other sensors (proximity probe, voltage, and so on)

• Assets that require NI Wireless Vibration Sensors for
  • Ultimate ease of installation
  • Price point per accelerometer channel measurement (triaxial sensor)
  • Coverage of larger number of assets in a plant for which you currently have no data