Posted to News on 22nd Jan 2008, 21:20
Machine condition monitoring instrument is intrinsically safe
SKF is launching an innovative and intrinsically safe handheld data collection and analysis system for use in all ATEX Zone 1 environments. Called the Marlin S-Pro IS, the new instrument is lightweight, compact and simple to use, yet incorporates a powerful Intel XScale processor for fast and accurate data handling and to support the complex on-screen graphics that are viewed on an integral high-resolution 3.8inch backlit colour display.
The Marlin S-Pro IS enables plant operators and engineers to automate data collection procedures as part of an integrated maintenance strategy. Just as importantly, the new instrument provides the facility to assess data trends while each operator is on-site, and it will instantly provide an alert of potential problems.
Featuring an ergonomic design, with sealing to IP54, the instrument incorporates a proven IEC class-two laser bar code scanner to enable data to be read quickly and simply from a wide variety of industrial and process plant and equipment. Alternatively, data such as vibration and temperature can be gathered using smart studs or via a combination of smart studs and bar code scanning. Information can also be input via a simple keyboard, which makes it easy to navigate the on-screen menus and to add notes or additional data to support subsequent reporting.
Once data has been gathered, the Marlin S-Pro IS provides comprehensive processing and reporting views using conventional Windows-based displays and sophisticated graphics for quick and precise on-the-spot analyses. Data can also be uploaded to higher level process control systems via a compact docking station, using USB or serial connections, or directly via an integrated Bluetooth wireless connection.
In each case, data communications can be managed using the powerful SKF @ptitude Inspector software, which provides extensive analysis and reporting options, with the data plots, notes and images gathered using the Marlin S-Pro IS being embedded directly into reports. This enables documentation to be created quickly and simply and in a format that can be exported to emails, as html or standard Microsoft Office documents.
The Marlin S-Pro IS is available with a wide range of accessories, enabling it to be used in non-hazardous environments, and is backed by SKF's global network of manufacturing, customer support and technical centres.
