181M6049 | Bently Nevada Dual Output Sensor

What Makes the Bently Nevada 181M6049 a Smart Choice?

When rotating machinery fails unexpectedly, downtime costs can escalate quickly. The 181M6049 from Bently Nevada helps you avoid such surprises by combining two essential measurements in one rugged package. This dual output sensor provides both acceleration and temperature data, giving you a more complete picture of equipment health without the need for multiple sensors.

Designed for harsh environments, the 181M6049 is hermetically sealed and built with 316L stainless steel. It withstands extreme temperatures from -50°C to +120°C and vibration limits up to 500 g peak. With a shock limit of 5,000 g peak, this sensor is built to survive the toughest conditions.

Key Features and Technical Specifications

• Dynamic sensitivity: 100 mV/g (±5% at 25°C)
• Acceleration range: 60 g peak
• Amplitude nonlinearity: 1%
• Frequency response: ±5% from 3 to 5,000 Hz; ±10% from 1 to 7,000 Hz; ±3 dB from 0.5 to 12,000 Hz
• Resonant frequency: 30 kHz
• Transverse sensitivity: ±5% of axial (max)
• Temperature response: -10% at -50°C, +10% at +120°C
• Temperature sensor output: 10 mV/°C
• Temperature sensor range: 2° to 120°C
• Voltage source: 18-28 Vdc
• Current regulating diode: 2-10 mA
• Broadband electrical noise: 700 µg (2.5 Hz to 25 kHz)
• Spectral noise: 10 µg/√Hz at 10 Hz; 5 µg/√Hz at 100 Hz and 1000 Hz
• Output impedance: 100 Ω (max)
• Bias output voltage: 12 Vdc
• Grounding: Case isolated, internally shielded
• Electromagnetic sensitivity: 70 µg/gauss (max)
• Base strain sensitivity: 0.0002 g/μstrain (max)
• Sealing: Hermetic
• Weight: 90 grams
• Case material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Mounting: ¼-28 UNF tapped hole
• Connector: 3-pin, MIL-C-5015 style

The 181M6049 stands out with its dual output capability. You get both vibration and temperature data from a single sensor, reducing installation complexity and cost. The integrated temperature sensor provides a 10 mV/°C output, allowing you to monitor bearing or housing temperatures alongside vibration.

Applications and Use Cases

This sensor is ideal for condition monitoring on pumps, fans, compressors, motors, and other rotating equipment. In petrochemical plants, paper mills, and power generation facilities, the 181M6049 helps detect early signs of bearing wear, imbalance, or misalignment. By capturing both vibration and temperature, you can identify issues before they lead to catastrophic failure.

For example, a sudden rise in temperature combined with increased vibration often indicates a lubrication problem. With the 181M6049, you can monitor both parameters simultaneously, enabling more accurate diagnostics and timely maintenance.

Installation and Setup

Mounting the 181M6049 is straightforward. The ¼-28 UNF tapped hole allows secure attachment to the machine surface. Ensure the mounting surface is clean and flat for optimal frequency response. Use the recommended cabling options: 16925-XX without armor or 16710-XX with armor, depending on your environment.

Connect the 3-pin MIL-C-5015 connector as follows: Shell connects to ground/case, Pin A for accelerometer power/signal, Pin B for accelerometer and temp sensor common, and Pin C for temp sensor signal. Always follow the manufacturer's wiring diagram and verify power supply voltage (18-28 Vdc) before energizing.

Maintenance and Reliability

The hermetically sealed design and 316L stainless steel case make the 181M6049 highly resistant to moisture, dust, and corrosion. Still, periodic inspection is recommended. Check the cable and connector for damage, and verify that the mounting bolt remains tight. Regularly compare sensor readings with known-good values to confirm accuracy.

Because the sensor has no moving parts, it offers excellent long-term reliability. With proper installation and routine checks, the 181M6049 can provide years of dependable service, reducing your total cost of ownership.

Compatibility and Integration

The 181M6049 is designed to work with Bently Nevada monitoring systems and can be integrated into most data acquisition systems that accept IEPE-style sensors. The 2-10 mA current regulating diode ensures stable operation over a wide voltage range. For specific compatibility with your existing system, consult the Bently Nevada documentation or contact Petro Auto Tech.

Common Questions About the 181M6049

Q: What is the frequency response of the 181M6049?

A: The sensor has a frequency response of ±5% from 3 to 5,000 Hz, ±10% from 1 to 7,000 Hz, and ±3 dB from 0.5 to 12,000 Hz.

Q: Can the 181M6049 measure temperature?

A: Yes, it includes a temperature sensor with a range of 2° to 120°C and an output of 10 mV/°C.

Q: What is the maximum vibration level the sensor can withstand?

A: The 181M6049 can handle vibration up to 500 g peak and shock up to 5,000 g peak.

Q: What type of connector does the 181M6049 use?

A: It uses a 3-pin MIL-C-5015 style connector, with pin functions clearly labeled for power, signal, and common.

Q: Is the 181M6049 suitable for hazardous areas?

A: The provided data does not include hazardous area certifications. Please verify with the manufacturer or Petro Auto Tech for your specific application.

Product Support and Availability

The Bently Nevada 181M6049 is available through Petro Auto Tech. Contact our team for current pricing and lead times. We are ready to help you integrate this reliable sensor into your condition monitoring program.