Bently Nevada 3300 XL 8 mm 330104-00-04-10-02-00 – Proximity Probe for Critical Rotating Machinery

The Bently Nevada 3300 XL 8 mm proximity probe (model 330104-00-04-10-02-00) is part of the classic 3300 XL eddy-current measurement chain used worldwide for shaft vibration and position on turbines, compressors, large pumps, and generators. One thing I appreciate is how reliably it pairs with a matching 3300 XL Proximitor Sensor and extension cable to deliver stable, API 670-friendly measurements. In many cases, it’s the straightforward choice for plants standardizing on Bently Nevada monitoring systems like 3500.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

Key Features

• Matched 8 mm probe system – Works as a set with 3300 XL Proximitor Sensor and extension cable for precise, stable calibration.
• Extended linear range – Typically provides a 4 mm (160 mil) linear range when used with the 8 mm Proximitor, ideal for large shaft diameters.
• Industry-standard sensitivity – About 200 mV/mil (≈7.87 mV/µm) output through the Proximitor for easy scaling in most monitors.
• High-temperature capability – Probe assembly is designed to operate in elevated temperature environments commonly found on turbomachinery.
• Rugged, oil-resistant design – Withstands oil splash and typical machine contaminants; you might notice fewer drift issues over time.
• Flexible system lengths – Compatible with common calibrated lengths (5 m/7 m/9 m/14 m) using the proper extension cable.
• Drop-in compatibility – Seamless with Bently Nevada 3500/3701/1900 series monitors and API 670 practice, reducing integration risk.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

From my experience, this probe is most at home on high-value rotating assets: steam and gas turbines, centrifugal compressors, critical process pumps, motors and generators, and expanders. You might notice it’s often specified for radial vibration, axial position (with appropriate mounting), and rotor-to-stator clearance checks, especially where elevated temperatures and oil-laden environments are the norm.

• Power generation (turbines, generators)
• Oil & gas (compressors, pumps, mechanical seals monitoring)
• Petrochemical and refining (API 670-compliant monitoring)
• Pulp & paper, steel mills, and other heavy industry lines

A maintenance lead at a refinery told me their switch to the 8 mm system improved signal stability on large shafts and cut false alarms after turnaround, mainly because the longer linear range gave them more room for thermal growth.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – 3300 XL probes are known for solid long-term stability; in most cases, drift is minimal when installed correctly.
• Compatibility – Drop-in with Bently Nevada monitors and transducers, simplifying spares and reducing training overhead.
• Cost control – Standardized spares (probe + 3300 XL extension cable + Proximitor) typically lower lifecycle cost and downtime risk.
• Technical support – Clear API 670 alignment and well-documented setup steps make commissioning faster for most teams.

Supporting Components & Compatible Models

• 3300 XL Proximitor Sensor (8 mm) – Required driver that provides the calibrated analog output and –24 Vdc electronics.
• 330130 Extension Cable – Common extension cable for 3300 XL systems; choose to achieve 5 m, 7 m, 9 m, or 14 m calibrated length.
• 330103 (5 mm) Probe Alternative – For tighter spaces or where a 2 mm linear range is sufficient.
• Monitoring Systems – Compatible with Bently Nevada 3500, 3701, and 1900 series condition monitoring and protection modules.

Installation & Maintenance

• Panel/Cabinet – Mount Proximitor in a clean, ventilated enclosure per site standards; allow cable bend radius as per datasheet.
• Probe mounting – Threaded mount with locknut; target material should be ferromagnetic (e.g., steel). Typical initial gap is set with a feeler gauge; for 8 mm systems, many teams gap around 1.5–2.0 mm depending on the application.
• Wiring – Keep probe/extension cables away from high-voltage lines; use shielded runs and proper grounding at the Proximitor end.
• Safety – Lockout/tagout rotating equipment; verify hazardous area approvals if installed in classified zones.
• Routine checks – Inspect cable integrity and connectors during shutdowns; clean probe tip if fouled with varnish or oil sludge.
• Calibration – If any component (probe, extension cable, Proximitor) is replaced, treat the chain as a matched set and verify calibration with a micrometer setup.
• Firmware/monitor updates – Keep 3500/online monitor firmware current to ensure alarm logic and scale factors remain consistent.

Quality & Certifications

• Typically compliant with CE and RoHS; manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Hazardous area approvals (e.g., ATEX/IECEx/CSA) may be available depending on the exact ordering options.
• Warranty: 365 days from shipment (standard policy above).

If you’re standardizing spares, this 3300 XL 8 mm configuration seems to be the safe bet for larger shafts and higher temp zones. Let me know your desired calibrated cable length and thread preference, and I’ll match the extension cable and Proximitor accordingly.