What Type of Magnet Should I Use?
When it comes to selecting the right magnet for attaching a vibration sensor to a machine, the choice between a flat surface magnet and a curved surface magnet can have a significant impact on the quality and accuracy of the collected data.
Flat Surface Magnet
A flat surface magnet is a magnet with a flat bottom that provides a large contact area between the magnet and the machine surface.
A standard-size CTC top exit accelerometer mounted on an MH103-1A flat surface magnet
Flat surface magnets are easy to use and offer a secure attachment, making them ideal for applications where the machine surface is relatively flat and free of curves or irregularities. When placed correctly, flat surface magnets can provide a stable and consistent attachment, which can help reduce the risk of false readings and errors in vibration data. View all CTC flat surface magnet offerings.
Curved Surface Magnet
In contrast, a curved surface magnet is a magnet with a concave or convex bottom designed to fit the contours of a curved machine surface.
A miniature CTC side-exit triaxial accelerometer mounted on an MH114-3A curved surface magnet
Curved surface magnets are ideal for applications where the machine surface is not flat, such as on a curved shaft or motor housing. By providing a snug fit between the magnet and the machine surface, a curved surface magnet can help to improve the accuracy of vibration data by reducing the risk of sensor movement or slippage. View all CTC curved surface magnet offerings.
Choosing the Right Magnet
When selecting the right magnet for a vibration data collection route, it's essential to consider the shape and contour of the machine surface. In general, a flat surface magnet is the best option for flat and relatively smooth surfaces, while a curved surface magnet is more appropriate for curved or irregular surfaces. In general, a flat magnet will also generally provide a better sensor frequency response than a curved surface magnet.
If a machine's surface has a combination of flat and curved areas, it may be necessary to use both types of magnets to ensure a secure and accurate attachment.
It's also important to consider the strength of the magnet when selecting a vibration sensor mount. A weak magnet may not provide a secure attachment, while a magnet that is too strong may make it difficult to remove the sensor for maintenance or repositioning. In general, a magnet with a pull force of 30 to 100 pounds is suitable for most vibration data collection applications. CTC highly recommends having both styles of magnets in your toolbox for any route.
CTC generated this text in part with GPT-3. Upon generating draft language, the author reviewed, edited, and revised the language to their own liking and takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this publication.
