The Bently Nevada TK3-2E is an essential field calibration tool designed to verify the performance of Proximitor* sensors and proximity probe systems. In industrial environments, sensor drift or improper installation can lead to false alarms or, worse, missed machinery faults. The TK3-2E solves this by simulating shaft vibration and position, allowing technicians to verify the linearity of the proximity system and calibrate the scale factor ($mV/mil$ or $V/mm$) without removing the sensors from the machine. It is the global gold standard for ensuring the integrity of your machinery protection system.
The TK3-2E is engineered for precision and durability in harsh industrial environments.
| Feature | Specification |
| Input Power | Air or Electric (model dependent) |
| Vibration Range | 50 to 254 $\mu m$ (2 to 10 mils) peak-to-peak |
| Spindle Range | 0 to 25.4 mm (0 to 1000 mils) |
| Target Material | AISI 4140 Steel (Standard) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 54°C (32°F to 130°F) |
| Wobble Plate Accuracy | Correlated to NIST standards |
| Weight | Approximately 5.4 kg (12 lbs) |
Understanding the specific suffixes of the TK-3 series ensures compatibility with your site’s power and measurement standards.
TK3-2: The base designation for the Proximity System Test Kit.
Suffix E (Electric): Indicates the unit is powered by an electric motor to drive the wobble plate. This is preferred for steady-state vibration simulation compared to the manual "TK3-2M" (Mechanical) or air-driven versions.
Voltage Options: Typically specified as 110V or 220V AC to power the internal motor.
Scale Units: Usually supplied with a dual-scale micrometer (Metric and English) to accommodate global calibration requirements.
To ensure accurate calibration cycles, follow these professional alignment practices:
Mount the proximity probe into the TK3-2 micrometer barrel. Connect the probe to the Proximitor and power supply. Rotate the micrometer in 10-mil (or 0.25 mm) increments and record the DC voltage output.
Wiring: Ensure the common (COM) and Signal (OUT) terminals are securely connected to a high-impedance Digital Multimeter (DMM).
Place the probe tip near the wobbling plate. As the motor turns, the probe detects a physical change in gap, simulating mechanical vibration.
Adjustment: Use the wobble plate adjustment screw to increase or decrease the simulated vibration amplitude.
Q: Can the TK3-2E calibrate probes from other manufacturers?
A: While designed for Bently Nevada 3300, 3300 XL, and 7200 series, it can test any eddy current probe as long as the target material (AISI 4140) matches the probe's calibration.
Q: How often should the TK3-2E itself be calibrated?
A: We recommend an annual NIST-traceable calibration for the micrometer spindle and wobble plate to maintain ISO compliance.
Q: Is the electric motor safe for hazardous areas?
A: No, the TK3-2E is a test instrument intended for use in safe zones. If testing must occur in a Class 1 Div 1 area, the TK3-2M (Manual) or air-driven versions are required.
