S 226.027.

00 en

®
MERLIN-VSI

Vibration Switch
INSTALLATION GUIDE
 Merlin-VSI®
Vibration Switch 1 (4)
S 226.027.00 en 2005-02-22

INSTALLATION GUIDE
VIBRATION SWITCH TYPE 3171 AND 3171/S CE

Contents

Principles of Operation
Application to Machine –Dimensions
Electrical Connections
Adjustment and Calibration Maintenance
Storage
Principles of operation

Vibration Switches operate by balancing the force of attraction of a permanent magnet

against the kinetic energy stored in a seismic mass (Steel Ball) when subject to an applied
acceleration. The switch is mounted in a vertical plane with the ball restrained in a conical
seat.

If the ball has received sufficient energy when subjected to acceleration forces produced by
vibration of the machine, it breaks free from the magnetic restraint falls under the action of
gravity and operates a micro switch.

The micro switch mechanism includes a magnetic latch to ensure positive and continuous
operation even if the ball returns to its conical seat.

The 3171 vibration switch is reset manually or electrically by returning the ball to the
control of the permanent magnet at the same time unlatching the micro switch mechanism.
The operate point of the vibration switch is controlled by the distance between the ball and
magnet: this is adjustable by rotating the Set Screw at the top of the switch.

Application to machine – dimensions

The unit should be firmly mounted on a vertical face with the reset mechanism at the
bottom by M4 bolts. See Fig1 for external dimensions.
The switch will respond to vibrations in any axis (Predominantly In a horizontal plane) and
should be fitted on the structure so that good transmission is ensured from the likely source
of excess vibrations.
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Electrical connections

See Fig 2 for Circuit Connections

Standard Cable Entry tapped to M20 x 1.5, I.S.O.
Max Connector Core size - 2.5 sq mm
Internal earth connection - 2.5 sq mm maximum Core diameter
Ensure cables are correctly fitted into terminal block and earth terminals and complies to
relevant Code of Practice.

Solenoid reset

WARNING: Check Reset Voltage and Duty Rating (stamped on lid)

AC Solenoids: Continuous Rated
DC Solenoids: Intermittent Rated
e.g. 25% = 1 minute ON (Maximum) +3 minutes OFF (Minimum)
6% = 6 Seconds ON (Maximum) +94 seconds OFF (Minimum)
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Manual reset

(Marking on Internal Solenoid Body shows continuous rating only e.g. 2v DC = 24v DC
25%, rated)

Adjustment and calibration

To set switch, rotate set level screw on top of switch fully clockwise, approximately 6
turns from flush (See Fig 4). Reset switch.
Check electrical connections show "Safe Condition" - if vibration switch is used for
machine shut-down, link-out switch separately during next operation.
With machine running normally, rotate set level screw anti-clockwise until switch just
trips. Reset carefully, re-adjust screw until switch no longer trips.
This determines setting for NORMAL or AMBIENT machine vibration level.
Vibrations above this level will now cause Vibration Switch to operate.

Actual AMBIENT level can be determined in 'G' from above by counting rotations of set
screw back to flush setting and referring to Calibration Curve, Actual or Typical (See Fig
3).
Switch is then adjusted by clockwise rotation of set level screw to desired level for
machinery protection. (Starting and stopping of the machine is recommended to check
protection level is adequate to accommodate any normal transient excess vibration periods
or resonances).
After final setting, ensure cavity of SET LEVEL screw is filled with Silicone Grease and
replace Rubber Sealing Cap. If anti-tamper protection is required it is suggested that cavity
be cleaned and filled with soft sealing wax.
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Maintenance
No maintenance is required on switch after installation and setting up. Periodic service
functional check is recommended by reducing set level to effect switch operation during
normal running, returning to previous SET LEVEL for Machinery Protection.

Storage

If switches are fitted to machinery without electrical connections being made, ensure that
the cable entry is sealed to prevent moisture entering the switch.