Application Notes

3100 Series Sensor for Low Lube Oil Pressure in Generators

December 13, 2021

Demand has been increasing in the Power Generation sector, particularly in the Generator Set (or Gen Set), to add more feedback as to what is happening with the engine running the generator. The Generator Set manufacturers and customers not only want to monitor liquid levels and temperatures when they are too high or too low, but also receive continuous feedback on actual levels. Traditionally, a pressure switch (on/off) would be used when oil levels got too low. Now, they need to provide a continuous output, such as 4 to 20 mA, 0 to 5 V, 0 to 10V, or 0.5 to 4.5 V, that they can feed into a controller or display.

Challenge

Finding a heavy-duty and reliable continuous pressure sensor that can survive a high-vibration environment of a Generation Set.

As the Gen Set is running, a high amount of vibration can be felt throughout the engine and engine compartment. It is challenging to find a commercially available and reasonably priced pressure sensor that can withstand this type of environment.

Sensor usage in power generation gen-set systems.

Solution

3100 Series Pressure Sensors

The 3100 Pressure Sensors utilize a highly vibration-resistant capacitive pressure-sensing technology. They are tested to 20G Random Sine 0.1G2/Hertz Vibration and 50G @ 11 ms Shock to ensure long life on an engine.

Also, the electrical back end of the 3100 Series Pressure Sensors is sealed and tested to the IP67 standard. With this high sealing rating, if the Gen Set owner needs to power wash it to keep it clean, they will not have to worry about water or soap ingress into the sensor.

Features

Exceptional Long-Term Stability = No need for costly field calibration or replacement
Thermally compensated = Consistent performance under wide temperature conditions
304 Stainless Steel body = Able to withstand harsh chemicals and gases
Sealed to IP67 = heavy water spray, power-washing
Enhanced RFI, EMI, and ESD Protection = Clear uninterrupted signal in harsh electrical environments
Computer Controlled Calibration = High 1:1 Interchangeability from unit to unit
Passes 40G Vibration test and IEC Free Fall test = Rugged design to handle excessive shock and vibration conditions