IQS900 204-900-000-011 A1-B31-C1-H05-I1 Signal Conditioner

The IQS900 Signal Conditioner is a high-performance, modular, core component of the non-contact eddy current displacement measurement system from Parker Meggitt (formerly the vibro-meter® product line). This product works in conjunction with the TQ403 series eddy current sensors and the EA403 extension cable to form a complete displacement/vibration measurement system. It is widely used for real-time measurement of parameters such as relative shaft vibration, axial displacement, eccentricity, and rotational speed in rotating machinery, including steam turbines, compressors, pumps, and generators.

The IQS900 is the upgraded replacement for the IQS450, featuring higher electromagnetic compatibility, enhanced interference immunity, lower output impedance, and supports SIL 2 functional safety design. It is suitable for long-term, stable operation in harsh industrial environments such as automation, petrochemicals, power generation, and metallurgy.

The specific model IQS900 204-900-000-011 A1-B31-C1-H05-I1 is a high-precision, standard industrial version (non-Ex), featuring voltage output (for a 12 mm measurement range), no diagnostic functions, and a specific connector configuration. It is suitable for rotating machinery monitoring applications requiring a larger measurement range, supports DIN-rail mounting, and is widely used in protection systems conforming to API 670 standards.

II. Key Features and Benefits

• Non-contact eddy current measurement principle: Based on high-frequency electromagnetic field induction, suitable for dynamic and static measurements of high-speed rotating machinery, unaffected by media such as oil and water vapor.

• Large measurement range: 12 mm linear measurement range, suitable for large gap or large displacement measurement scenarios.

• High sensitivity: Voltage output sensitivity of 1.33 mV/μm, corresponding to the 12 mm range, output signal -1.6 V ~ -17.6 V.

• Wide frequency response: DC ~ 20 kHz (-3 dB), capable of measuring both static displacement and dynamic vibration simultaneously.

• Low output impedance: < 100 Ω (DC), < 300 Ω (20 kHz), supporting long-distance signal transmission with good compatibility with various monitoring systems.

• SIL 2 functional safety design: Compliant with IEC 61508, suitable for safety-related applications (the C2 diagnostic version has SIL 2 certification; the C1 model has no diagnostics but the hardware design meets SIL 2 capability).

• Temperature-compensated design: Ensures measurement stability across the full temperature range (-40°C ~ +85°C).

• Modular design: Features plug-in screw terminals, simplifying on-site wiring and maintenance.

• DIN-rail mounting: Supports standard TH 35 rails for easy installation.

• Multiple output options: Configurable for voltage or current output to meet different system interface requirements.

• High interference immunity: Improved electromagnetic compatibility design, compliant with EN 61000-6-2/4 standards.

• Overvoltage/Short-circuit protection: Outputs feature overvoltage and short-circuit protection, enhancing system reliability.

  
  

III. Typical Applications

• Steam Turbines, Hydraulic Turbines, Gas Turbines: Shaft vibration, axial position monitoring.

• Compressors, Blowers: Rotor dynamic behavior analysis, axial thrust monitoring.

• Pumps: Eccentricity, rotational speed, vibration monitoring.

• Generators, Electric Motors: Shaft vibration and air gap monitoring.

• Large Rotating Machinery: Such as paper machines, rolling mills, and other equipment requiring large-range displacement monitoring.

• API 670 Standard Protection Systems: Rotating machinery protection systems conforming to international standards.

• Laboratories and Test Stands: For displacement and vibration characteristic research.

  
  

IV. System Composition and Operating Principle

4.1 System Composition

The IQS900 Signal Conditioner, together with the TQ403 sensor and the EA403 extension cable, forms a complete eddy current displacement measurement system. All components are calibrated and interchangeable without the need for recalibration.

• TQ403 Sensor: Contains an 18 mm diameter coil encapsulated in a Torlon® probe tip, a stainless steel body (MAZ 1.4305), an integral coaxial cable with FEP sheath, terminated with a self-locking miniature coaxial connector. The probe is available only with metric thread.

• EA403 Extension Cable: Used to extend the distance between the sensor and the signal conditioner, featuring self-locking miniature coaxial connectors at both ends, available in various lengths.

• IQS900 Signal Conditioner: Contains a high-frequency modulator/demodulator circuit, provides the excitation signal for the sensor, and converts the sensor's impedance change into a voltage or current signal proportional to the gap.

4.2 Operating Principle

1. Sensor Excitation: The internal high-frequency oscillator in the IQS900 generates an excitation signal, driving the sensor coil via the cable and creating a high-frequency electromagnetic field around it.

2. Target Interaction: When a metallic target (e.g., a rotating shaft) approaches the sensor tip, eddy currents are induced on the target surface. These currents react back on the sensor coil, altering its equivalent impedance.

3. Demodulation and Output: The modulation/demodulation circuit inside the IQS900 detects the impedance change and converts it into a voltage or current signal linearly proportional to the target gap.

4. Signal Transmission: The output signal can be directly connected to monitoring systems like VM600, VibroSmart, or for data acquisition and analysis via PLC/DCS.

   
   

V. Model Code Breakdown (IQS900 204-900-000-011 A1-B31-C1-H05-I1)

Note: The exact meaning of model codes may change with product revisions. It is recommended to confirm with the latest data sheet or official information from Parker Meggitt.

VI. Performance Curves (Typical)

(Reference performance curves for TQ403 with IQS900)

• Output Characteristic: With standard target material (VCL 140 steel) at 23°C calibration temperature, output voltage is linear with gap, slope 1.33 mV/μm, linear range 0.75 ~ 12.75 mm.

• Error Curve: Typical linearity error < ±100 μm (relative to ideal straight line) over the entire measurement range.

• Temperature Drift: Maximum temperature drift < 5% over the range -40°C ~ +180°C.

(Specific curves can be found in data sheet DS 265-063a, page 8)

VII. Installation and Mechanical Dimensions

7.1 IQS900 Signal Conditioner Dimensions

• Width: Approx. 100 mm

• Height: Approx. 80 mm

• Depth: Approx. 30 mm (excluding connectors)

7.2 Mounting Methods

• Direct Screw Mounting: Via two M4 screws onto a mounting plate or inside a cabinet.

• DIN-rail Mounting: Using the MA130 rail adapter for quick installation on TH 35 rails (compliant with EN 50022 / IEC 60715).

7.3 Connector Layout

• Sensor Input: Self-locking miniature coaxial connector (labeled "SENSOR").

• Test Interface: 4-pin terminal block, including RAW and TEST signals.

• Power & Output: 4-pin terminal block, including O/P and -24V/COM.

7.4 Installation Notes

• The IQS900 has an IP20 rating and is suitable for indoor use only. For harsh environments, it must be installed in a cabinet with IP54 or higher protection.

• Ensure cable connections are secure; coaxial connectors should be hand-tightened until they lock.

• Terminal blocks are pluggable, facilitating pre-wiring.

  
  

VIII. Accessories and Options

IX. Compatible Monitoring Systems

The output signal from the IQS900 Signal Conditioner can be directly connected to the following monitoring systems:

• VM600 / VM600 Mk2 Series Modules (e.g., IOC4T, IOC16T)

• VibroSmart® Distributed Monitoring System (e.g., VSM100, VSM101)

• GS1127 Galvanic Isolation Unit (for safety barrier isolation)

• Third-party PLC/DCS Analog Input Modules (must meet input impedance requirements: voltage input ≥ 50 kΩ, current input ≤ 350 Ω)

  
  

X. Certifications and Standards

Note: This model with code A1 is the standard industrial version and does not have explosion-proof certification. For use in hazardous areas, the A5 Ex option should be selected.

XI. Total System Length and Cable Combinations

When the IQS900 is used with TQ403 and EA403, the supported Total System Lengths (TSL) are as follows:

Cable Length Trimming: Due to the electrical characteristics of the coaxial cable, the actual cable length requires electrical trimming to ensure system performance. For example:

• Minimum actual length for a 5 m system: 4.4 m

• Minimum actual length for a 10 m system: 8.8 m

(Refer to the data sheet for specific trimming values.)

XII. Ordering Information

Note: Please consult Parker Meggitt or an authorized distributor for specific ordering part numbers.