CA134 144-134-000-202 Piezoelectric Accelerometer

The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is a premium piezoelectric accelerometer from Parker Meggitt’s distinguished vibro‑meter® product line, specifically engineered for vibration monitoring in the most severe industrial environments. This particular variant is the sensor only version (legacy ordering code), supplied without a permanently attached cable, offering maximum flexibility for users to select the most appropriate cable assembly for their specific application requirements. The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is designed to deliver accurate, repeatable, and stable vibration measurements across an extraordinarily wide temperature range, from cryogenic conditions at –253 °C (20 K) up to a scorching 500 °C, making it indispensable for applications such as gas turbine monitoring, steam turbine protection, compressors, pumps, and cryogenic pump testing.

The sensor utilises a compression‑mode piezoelectric measuring element with internal case insulation and a differential charge output. This design offers excellent common‑mode rejection, immunity to ground loops, and intrinsic safety when used with appropriate signal conditioners. The housing is constructed from a special high‑temperature nickel alloy, hermetically welded to protect the internal sensing element from moisture, corrosive gases, and particulate contamination. Unlike the integral cable version, the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is equipped with a high‑temperature, rugged circular 2‑pin connector (vibro‑meter® 7/16″‑27 UNS‑2A / CG505 type) that mates with a range of removable cable assemblies. This connector‑based design allows users to choose from several cable types with different lengths, insulation materials, and environmental protections, tailoring the measurement chain to the exact needs of the installation.

The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 carries full Ex certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (hazardous areas), complying with rigorous international standards including CE, IECEx, KGS, and TIS. This certification, combined with the sensor’s inherent stability, low transverse sensitivity, and wide frequency response, makes it the preferred choice for safety‑related vibration monitoring systems where both reliability and accuracy are non‑negotiable.

With a nominal sensitivity of 10 pC/g, a dynamic measurement range from 0.001 g to 500 g peak, and a resonant frequency exceeding 14 kHz, the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 captures vibration signatures from low‑frequency machinery dynamics up to high‑frequency gearmesh and blade‑pass frequencies. Its frequency response is flat from 0.5 Hz to 3500 Hz within ±5 %, and extends to 6000 Hz with a tolerance of ±10 %, making it suitable for both slow‑speed rotating equipment and high‑speed turbomachinery.

The sensor‑only configuration is particularly advantageous for installations where the cable must pass through conduits, bulkheads, or extreme temperature gradients, or where the cable may be subject to wear and needs periodic replacement without disturbing the sensor mounting. The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is also the preferred choice for users who already have compatible cable assemblies in stock or who require custom cable lengths that are not available as factory‑assembled integral versions. As a legacy part number, 144‑134‑000‑202 is fully interchangeable with the current sensor‑only variant (144‑134‑000‑203), ensuring continued support for existing systems and long‑term availability.

This product introduction provides a comprehensive description of the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202, covering its key features, applications, detailed specifications (presented in tabular form), ordering information, available cable accessories, and essential installation guidelines. All information is derived from the original legacy data sheet (2022‑002) and reflects Parker Meggitt’s commitment to engineering excellence and customer support.

Key Features and Benefits

Wide Operating Temperature Range – The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 operates continuously from –54 °C to 500 °C, with a cryogenic‑capable option extending the lower limit to –253 °C (20 K), ensuring reliable performance in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquid oxygen/hydrogen pump monitoring.

Sensor‑Only Design for Maximum Flexibility – The absence of a permanently attached cable allows users to select from a range of cable assemblies (EC069, EC112, EC119, EC222, EC390) to match the environmental conditions, mechanical routing, and connector requirements of each specific installation. Cable lengths can be customised, and worn cables can be replaced without removing the sensor.

High‑Temperature Connector Interface – The sensor features a rugged, threaded circular 2‑pin connector (vibro‑meter® 7/16″‑27 UNS‑2A / CG505 type) with keyway, ensuring secure, polarised mating with all recommended cable assemblies. The connector is rated for the full 500 °C operating temperature.

Hermetically Welded Nickel Alloy Case – The sensor housing is fully welded from a special high‑temperature nickel alloy, providing a sealed enclosure that protects the piezoelectric element from moisture, corrosive gases, and particulate ingress, ensuring long‑term stability and reliability.

Ex Certified for Hazardous Areas – The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is approved for installation in potentially explosive atmospheres, bearing multiple international certifications (CE, IECEx, KGS, TIS), making it safe for use in oil and gas, petrochemical, and mining applications where flammable gases or dusts may be present.

Symmetrical Differential Output – The internal case insulation and differential charge output (2‑pin system isolated from ground) enable direct connection to charge converters (e.g., IPC70x series) without ground loop issues, improving signal‑to‑noise ratio in electrically noisy environments.

High Sensitivity and Wide Dynamic Range – With a sensitivity of 10 pC/g ±5 % and a measurement range from 0.001 g to 500 g peak, the sensor captures both subtle bearing wear and severe imbalance conditions. Overload capacity up to 1000 g peak protects against shock events.

Excellent Linearity and Low Transverse Sensitivity – Non‑linearity is less than ±1 % over the full dynamic range, and transverse sensitivity is below 5 %, ensuring accurate vector measurement without cross‑axis interference.

High Resonant Frequency – A nominal resonant frequency above 14 kHz allows the sensor to respond faithfully to high‑frequency content, which is crucial for detecting early‑stage gear and bearing defects.

Robust Physical Construction – Weighing approximately 120 g, the sensor is compact and low‑mass, minimising mass‑loading effects on the vibrating structure. Mounting is achieved via three M4 screws with lock‑washers, providing secure attachment even under high shock and vibration.

Applications

The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is the ideal vibration sensor for a wide spectrum of demanding applications, including:

• Gas and Steam Turbine Monitoring – Continuous vibration measurement on bearings, casings, and shafts in power generation, aviation, and marine propulsion.

• Compressors and Pumps – Monitoring of centrifugal, axial, and reciprocating compressors, as well as cryogenic pumps handling LNG, liquid nitrogen, and other low‑temperature fluids.

• Hazardous Area Installations – Ex‑rated sensors used in oil refineries, chemical plants, gas terminals, and coal‑handling facilities where explosive atmospheres exist.

• Aerospace Test Rigs – Vibration analysis of engine components, gearboxes, and auxiliary power units (APUs) under extreme thermal and mechanical stress.

• Industrial Condition Monitoring – Long‑term trending and predictive maintenance programmes in steel mills, cement plants, paper mills, and mining operations.

• Cryogenic Engineering – Monitoring of rotating machinery in cryogenic test facilities, space propulsion systems, and superconducting magnet cooling systems.

• High‑Temperature Process Equipment – Kilns, dryers, fans, and blowers operating in ambient temperatures beyond the capability of standard accelerometers.

• Retrofit and Replacement – The sensor‑only format allows easy replacement of existing sensors in legacy installations without changing the existing cable infrastructure. The legacy part number 144‑134‑000‑202 ensures compatibility with older system documentation and spare parts inventories.

Detailed Description of the Sensor‑Only Version (144‑134‑000‑202)

The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is supplied without a cable, allowing the user to select the most suitable cable assembly for their particular application. This approach offers several distinct advantages:

• Cable Customisation – Users can choose from a range of cable types (EC069, EC112, EC119, EC222, EC390) that differ in temperature rating, mechanical protection (flexible or sealed), connector types at the far end, and cable length. This ensures that the cable is optimally matched to the installation environment, whether it is a high‑temperature turbine casing, a cryogenic chamber, or a chemically aggressive area.

• Ease of Maintenance – If a cable becomes damaged due to abrasion, chemical attack, or thermal degradation, it can be replaced independently of the sensor. The sensor remains mounted, avoiding the need to disturb the mechanical attachment and recalibrate the measurement chain.

• Simplified Installation – The connector interface allows the sensor to be mounted first, and the cable to be connected afterwards. This is particularly beneficial in confined spaces or when routing cables through conduits, bulkheads, or junction boxes.

• Interchangeability – The same sensor can be used with different cable assemblies for different test setups or temporary measurement campaigns, increasing versatility.

• Cost‑Effectiveness – For users who already have a stock of compatible cables, purchasing the sensor‑only version avoids redundant cable costs. For long cable runs, the ability to order the exact length reduces waste and expense.

The sensor itself is identical in performance and construction to the integral cable version, with the same piezoelectric element, internal case insulation, hermetically welded housing, and Ex certification. The only difference is the presence of a connector instead of a permanently attached cable. The connector is a high‑temperature, circular, threaded type with a 7/16″‑27 UNS‑2A thread and a keyway for polarisation. It is designed to withstand the full 500 °C operating temperature and provides a secure, vibration‑proof connection. The connector mates with the corresponding 7/16″‑27 UNS‑2B or CG505 connectors found on all recommended cable assemblies.

Legacy Note: The part number 144‑134‑000‑202 is the original ordering code for the sensor‑only variant. In current documentation, this has been superseded by 144‑134‑000‑203, but the mechanical, electrical, and environmental specifications are completely unchanged. This legacy number remains fully valid for ordering, and all accessories and support documentation remain applicable. Users with existing systems that reference 144‑134‑000‑202 can confidently order this number for replacement or spares, ensuring drop‑in compatibility.

When ordering the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202, the user must also order a separate cable assembly (see Accessories section) and specify the required length. The cable assembly will have a matching connector on the sensor end and either a second vibro‑meter® high‑temperature connector (for EC069), a LEMO type 0 connector (for EC112), or flying leads (for EC119, EC222, EC390) on the other end, depending on the chosen type.

Recommended Cable Assemblies

The following cable assemblies are specifically recommended for use with the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202. Each offers distinct characteristics to suit different installation requirements:

Note: Cable lengths must be specified when ordering. The "x01" in EC069 and "5x1" in EC112 indicate that the length is variable; consult the factory for ordering codes for specific lengths. All extension cables use connectors that are compatible with the sensor’s 7/16″‑27 UNS‑2A connector.

For applications where the cable must pass through a high‑temperature zone (e.g., inside a turbine casing), the mineral‑insulated cables EC069 and EC112 are strongly recommended due to their superior heat resistance and mechanical ruggedness. For general industrial use where temperatures are moderate, the EC119, EC222, or EC390 flexible cables provide excellent signal‑to‑noise ratio and ease of routing.

Installation and Mounting Guidelines

Proper installation is critical to achieving the specified performance from the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202. The following guidelines are derived from Parker Meggitt’s recommended practices:

• Mounting Surface Preparation – The mounting surface should be flat, smooth, and clean. Any burrs, paint, or corrosion must be removed to ensure full contact between the sensor base and the machine surface. A surface finish of 1.6 µm (63 µin) or better is recommended.

• Screws and Torque – The sensor is secured using three M4×16 Allen screws and three M4 spring‑lock washers. The recommended tightening torque is 4 N·m (3 lb‑ft). This torque ensures consistent preload and avoids over‑stressing the housing. Use of thread‑locking compound (such as Loctite) is optional but may be beneficial in high‑vibration environments.

• Orientation and Alignment – The sensitive axis is marked on the sensor housing. Align the sensor such that its sensitive axis coincides with the direction of the vibration to be measured. For axial, radial, or tangential measurements, refer to the installation manual for detailed orientation diagrams.

• Electrical Grounding – The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 features internal case insulation; therefore, the mounting surface does not need to be electrically insulated. However, the sensor case is not connected to either signal pin, so grounding the housing to the machine structure is acceptable and often beneficial for electromagnetic shielding. The differential output should be connected to a charge amplifier with a differential input to fully exploit the noise‑rejection benefits.

• Connector Mating – When attaching the cable to the sensor, ensure that the connector is clean and free of debris. Tighten the threaded coupling firmly (but not excessively) to achieve a gas‑tight seal and secure mechanical connection. The keyway ensures correct polarisation – do not force the connection.

• Cable Routing – The chosen cable should be routed with a minimum bend radius as specified in its respective product drawing. Typically, for MI cables, a minimum bend radius of 50 mm (2.0 in) applies. The cable should be secured at regular intervals using P‑clips or cable ties, but care must be taken not to over‑tighten and crush the cable. Avoid running the cable adjacent to high‑voltage power cables or sources of strong electromagnetic fields.

• Temperature Considerations – Ensure that the selected cable assembly is rated for the maximum temperature it will encounter along its entire length. If the cable passes through a hot zone, use an MI cable (EC069 or EC112) for that section. If using extension cables, ensure that intermediate junction boxes are appropriately rated.

• Hazardous Area Installation – All installation practices must comply with local regulations and the specific Ex certificate requirements. The sensor and cables are intrinsically safe when used with approved barriers and signal conditioners. Consult the relevant certificate and the installation manual for detailed wiring diagrams and safety parameters.

Commissioning and Verification

After installation, the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 should be verified using a known vibration source (e.g., a portable shaker or a reference accelerometer). The charge amplifier output should be checked for correct scaling and polarity. A simple sensitivity test can be performed by applying a known acceleration and measuring the output charge or voltage. The sensor’s insulation resistance should also be checked at ambient temperature to ensure no degradation has occurred during installation. For connector‑based installations, it is good practice to verify continuity and insulation resistance of the cable assembly before connection.

For safety‑related systems, a proof test or functional check may be required at regular intervals, as specified in the plant’s maintenance procedures. The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is designed for long‑term stability, but periodic calibration (e.g., every 2‑5 years) is recommended to maintain measurement accuracy.

Ordering Information

The CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 is ordered using the following designations:

Note: The part number 144‑134‑000‑202 is the legacy ordering code for the sensor‑only variant. In current documentation, this has been superseded by 144‑134‑000‑203, but the specifications remain identical. When placing an order, specify the exact part number 144‑134‑000‑202 to obtain this sensor‑only variant. Additionally, a separate cable assembly must be ordered (see Accessories) with the required length. For cryogenic versions (minimum –253 °C), please consult your local representative, as special ordering may be required.

Accessories

To complete the measurement chain, the following accessories are available for the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202:

Note: Cable lengths must be specified when ordering. For EC069 and EC112, the part number includes a placeholder for length (x01 or 5x1); contact Parker Meggitt for the full ordering code for your required length. Extension cables are available in standard and custom lengths.

Disposal and Environmental Compliance

At the end of its service life, the CA134 144‑134‑000‑202 should be disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations. The sensor contains nickel alloys, stainless steel, and piezoelectric materials, which should be recycled where possible. In the European Union, the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive applies – please consult your local authority for guidance on proper recycling channels.