Why Use Triaxial Accelerometers?

CTC’s triaxial accelerometers are versatile, reliable, and precise instruments capable of measuring vibration in three different directions (X, Y, and Z) simultaneously. When determining whether or not single-axis or triaxial accelerometers are the right choices for your application, there are several things to take into consideration:

  Speed of Data Collection
Triaxial accelerometers allow for three measurements to be taken simultaneously. This can create significant efficiencies for faster data collection. However, it should be noted that in applications where single-axis sensors are preferred, they may be wired into one of CTC’s triaxial junction boxes in such a way that all data may be taken from all three axes simultaneously. To learn more about this method, CTC has specific wiring diagrams posted to all triaxial junction box product pages on how to do this.

  Cost
Triaxial sensors are often significantly more expensive than a single-axis sensor (note, you are getting three sensors in one with a triaxial sensor). However, there are cost savings to be had elsewhere when utilizing a triaxial sensor. For permanently mounted sensors, a triaxial sensor only requires the purchase of one cable and only requires one mounting location. If monitoring three axes of vibration with single-axis accelerometers, three sensors, three cables, and three mounting locations are required. For portable, route-based measurements, the hardware cost of utilizing a single-axis sensor is significantly cheaper. However, it will take longer to collect data, leading to a greater labor cost.

  Frequency Response Range
Single-axis sensors typically have a wider frequency response range and are typically preferred for high-frequency measurements. This is largely attributed to the larger mass of a triaxial sensor compared to a single-axis sensor. However, CTC’s cutting-edge designs have enabled our next-generation TREA series triaxes to achieve a high-end frequency response of 15 kHz (+/- 3 dB), closing the gap between single-axis and triaxial sensor performance.

  Accessibility
For route-based measurements, it may be difficult to safely reach all vibration test points. As a result, a triaxial sensor can help eliminate these concerns because three axes of measurement can be taken from one safe location.

Whether a single-axis or triaxial sensor is the best choice for your application, CTC’s skilled team of sales experts is happy to assist in selecting the right sensor. All CTC sensors are backed by our unconditional lifetime warranty and qualify for free annual recalibration!