Description
Key Technical Specifications
- Model Number: 330101-00-18-05-02-05
- Probe Type: Eddy current proximity sensor (non-contact measurement)
- Probe Diameter: 8mm (0.315″) – standard size for general machinery monitoring
- Case Length: 18mm (0.709″) – compact design for limited-space applications
- Unthreaded Length: 0mm (00 option) – probe mounts flush with surface
- Cable Configuration:
- Length: 5ft (1.5m) – ideal for mid-range distance from Proximitor
- Type: 75Ω triaxial, PFA (perfluoroalkoxy) insulation, 100% stainless steel braided shield
- Conductors: 22 AWG stranded copper
- Connector: MIL-C-5015 male (standard for 3300 XL series)
- Mounting Thread: 3/8-24 UNF (external) – standard for 8mm probes
- Linear Measurement Range: 4mm (0.157″) peak-to-peak
- Sensitivity: 200mV/mm (5.08mV/mil) – standard for 8mm probes with ferrous targets
- Frequency Response: 0.5Hz to 10kHz – suitable for both static and dynamic measurements
- Operating Temperature: -51°C to +177°C (-60°F to +351°F) – extreme temperature tolerance
- Storage Temperature: -62°C to +190°C (-80°F to +375°F)
- Isolation: 500V AC (conductor to shield)
- Impedance: 75Ω (matched to 3300 XL Proximitor)
- Certifications: API 670 compliant (4th edition), CE, ATEX, IECEx (hazardous area versions available)
- Warranty: 12 months
Bently 330101-00-18-05-02-05
Field Application & Problem Solved
In industrial environments with critical rotating equipment, the 330101-00-18-05-02-05 solves a common monitoring challenge: measuring shaft vibrations in machinery with limited access space while maintaining signal integrity over moderate distances.
A chemical plant in Texas had recurring bearing failures in their compact heat exchanger pumps because their existing vibration sensors couldn’t fit in the tight housing. The 18mm case length of this probe allowed installation where larger probes failed. The 5ft cable provided enough reach to connect to the Proximitor mounted on the adjacent frame without requiring extension cables that introduce signal degradation.
You’ll typically find this probe in:
- Small to medium-sized turbines (auxiliary power units, generator exciters)
- Centrifugal pumps with close-coupled bearings
- Compressors in packaging machinery
- Any rotating equipment with limited radial clearance where an 8mm probe is optimal
Installation & Maintenance Pitfalls (Expert Tips)
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Gap Setting Critical: For 8mm probes, the ideal operating gap is 2mm (midpoint of 4mm range). Using a precision feeler gauge is essential – a Pennsylvania refinery’s pump monitoring failed because technicians estimated the gap visually, leading to signal saturation.
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Cable Handling:
- Never bend the cable tighter than 50mm radius – the PFA insulation cracks at sharper bends
- Route away from power cables (>20cm separation) to prevent EMI
- Use cable ties at 30cm intervals to reduce vibration-induced fatigue
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Connector Installation:
- Torque to 0.8Nm (7.1 in-lbs) – under-torquing causes intermittent connections; over-torquing damages threads
- Always use the protective boot to prevent moisture ingress
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Environmental Considerations:
- In high-temperature zones (>150°C), request the high-temperature variant
- For corrosive environments, verify the probe uses 316L stainless steel (standard is 303/304)
Bently 330101-00-18-05-02-05
Technical Deep Dive & Overview
The Bently 330101-00-18-05-02-05 is a sophisticated eddy current proximity probe designed for precision machinery monitoring. At its core is a miniature coil inside the 8mm probe tip that generates a high-frequency electromagnetic field. When a conductive target (typically a steel shaft) approaches, eddy currents are induced in the target, altering the coil’s impedance. The 3300 XL Proximitor (sold separately) converts this impedance change into a voltage output (-24V to 0V) proportional to the probe-to-shaft distance.
What makes this probe particularly valuable is its balance of compact size and robust performance:
- The 18mm case length fits into machinery housings where larger probes can’t
- The 5ft integral cable eliminates the need for field splicing, reducing failure points
- The PFA insulation provides superior resistance to chemicals and temperature extremes compared to standard PVC
As part of the 3300 XL system, it offers complete interchangeability with other 3300 XL components, meaning you can swap probes or cables without recalibration – a huge advantage for maintenance teams. The API 670 compliance ensures it meets the stringent reliability standards required for critical machinery protection in industries like oil & gas, power generation, and pharmaceuticals.
For plant engineers, this probe represents more than just a sensor – it’s a vital link in a predictive maintenance strategy that can detect shaft misalignment, bearing wear, or rotor instability long before they cause catastrophic failures. By providing continuous, non-contact measurements of shaft position and vibration, it enables early intervention to prevent costly downtime and equipment damage.
