Proximity Probes
Proximity probes (also called eddy current probes) are non-contact vibration sensors used to measure the relative movement between a rotating shaft and its bearing housing. They are critical for monitoring rotating machinery health such as turbines, compressors, pumps, and motors.
Unlike accelerometers or velocity sensors mounted on the bearing, proximity probes measure direct shaft vibration and displacement, giving a very accurate picture of what’s happening inside the machine.
THE PRO LINE DIFFERENCE
Proximity Probe Solutions for Unmatched Performance
PRO Proximity Probe sets are the industry’s highest quality solutions for the measurement of your critical machinery’s shaft vibration, displacement, speed, and the overall vibration of rotating machines in the most demanding industrial environments.
As a hardware-focused predictive maintenance solutions manufacturer, we’re dedicated to engineering products that feature the best specifications at the best price point on the market.
at a glance
How does Proximity Probes work?
A probe tip generates an electromagnetic field.
When placed close to a conductive shaft, changes in the gap alter the signal.
These changes are converted into a voltage proportional to shaft movement (displacement).
Results: engineers can monitor shaft vibration, axial position, and even shaft speed.
solution
Why Are They Important in Reliability?
Proximity probes are often used in API 670-compliant systems (the global standard for machinery protection). They:
Detect shaft rubs, misalignment, and unbalance before catastrophic failure.
Provide early warning of bearing or lubrication issues.
Enable condition monitoring and protection systems to automatically trigger alarms or trips when vibration exceeds safe limits.
In critical industries — oil & gas, power plants, petrochemicals — they are often mandatory for large, high-speed rotating equipment.
Industries and Applications
Power Generation
Used in steam and gas turbines, generators, hydro units, critical pumps
Desalination
Used in intake and transfer pumps, brine recirculation / circulating pumps, turbines, generators, high-pressure multi-stage pumps
Oil & Gas
Used in centrifugal compressors, booster pumps, injection pumps, power turbines, pumping stations, pipeline compressor stations, critical process pumps, steam turbines, large cooling water and circulating pumps
Mining and Minerals
Used in slurry/recirculation pumps, process air compressors, turbo-blowers, generator sets
District Cooling
Used in centrifugal chillers and cooling-water pumps (journal bearings → shaft X/Y, axial)
Chemical Processing
Used in process compressors, synthesis gas/air machines, turbine drivers; API 670 protection common
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Related Services
Combine our sealing solutions with condition monitoring and vibration analysis to maximize equipment uptime.
