Description
Bently Nevada 3300 XL 8mm Proximity Probe
Part Number: 330730-040-00-00
1. Product Introduction
The 330730-040-00-00 is a high-reliability, industrial-grade proximity transducer within the Bently Nevada 3300 XL series. This probe is engineered to provide accurate measurements of shaft vibration (radial and axial), shaft position (thrust), and speed (Keyphasor®). Utilizing proprietary TipLoc™ molding technology, this sensor offers superior mechanical integrity, ensuring that the internal coil is precisely positioned. Additionally, the CableLoc™ design secures the electrical connection against harsh industrial environments, making it the industry standard for critical turbomachinery protection.

330730-040-00-00
2. Main Technical Specifications
- Part Number Breakdown:
- 330730: 3300 XL 8mm Proximity Probe.
- 040: Physical length of the probe uncoupled (4.0 inches or approx. 100 mm).
- 00: Total Electrical Length (TEL) mismatch/Universal code (Must be paired with a specific extension cable to form a complete system length).
- 00: Mounting arrangement (Standard 1/2″-18 UNF thread).
- 00: Standard approval/option (No intrinsic safety).
- Physical Dimensions:
- Diameter: 0.315 inches (8 mm).
- Case Material: Stainless steel (Polycarbonate optional on other variants, but this is standard metal).
- Thread Size: 3/8″-24 UNF or 1/2″-18 UNF (Verify based on exact sub-codes, typically 1/2-18 for 330730 series).
- Electrical Interface:
- Connector Type: Miniature coaxial connector (reverse polarity keyed).
- Probe Tip: PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide) plastic, non-conductive.
- Operating Temperature:
- Probe Body: -51°C to +177°C (-60°F to +350°F).
- Probe Tip: -51°C to +204°C (-60°F to +400°F).
- Linear Range: 80 mils (2 mm) gap-to-voltage linear range (typically from -2.0 V to -18.0 V DC across the gap).
3. Typical Applications
The 330730-040-00-00 is ubiquitous in the oil & gas, power generation, and petrochemical sectors for continuous monitoring:
- Radial Vibration Monitoring: Detecting shaft relative vibration on journal bearings.
- Axial Thrust Position: Critical monitoring of rotor axial position to prevent thrust bearing wipe-out.
- Eccentricity & Runout: Measuring shaft average position or bow.
- Active Compressor/Turbine Installations: Used in API 670 compliant machinery protection systems (e.g., GE, Siemens, Solar Turbines).
4. Avoid Technical Pitfalls (Best Practices & Warnings)
- Total Electrical Length (TEL) Calculation: The part number suffix “00” implies the probe itself is not assigned a standalone system length; it relies on the extension cable to define the total system length. You must pair this probe with an extension cable (e.g., 3307xx-xx-xx) and a Proximitor that matches the combined length. If the TEL is incorrect, the voltage/gap curve will be wrong, leading to false alarms.
- Thread Size Confusion: While the probe diameter is 8mm, the mounting thread can vary (M8, 3/8″-24, or 1/2″-18). 330730 often implies a specific housing. Always verify the mechanical thread of the machine housing before ordering.
- Target Material Requirements: This probe is linearized for standard AISI 4140 steel. If you are measuring a shaft made of Inconel, titanium, or other alloys, the scale factor (sensitivity) will change, requiring re-scaling in the monitor software.
- Side View Clearance: Ensure there is sufficient metal around the mounting hole (at least 2x the probe diameter) to support the eddy current field. If mounted too close to the edge of a sleeve or bore, the sensitivity will drop.
- Physical Damage to Tip: The PPS plastic tip is durable but can crack. Never strike the probe against the shaft during installation, as a cracked tip allows oil ingress, which destroys the sensor.
5. Related Product Recommendations
- Matching Extension Cable: Bently Nevada 330730 extension cables or 330709 cables to complete the circuit.
- Proximitor Sensor: 330180 (standard) or 330850 (high temp) series Proximitor heads.
- Monitor Modules: Bently Nevada 3500/40M, 3500/42M, or 3500/53 (overspeed) modules.
- Mounting Hardware: 125680-01 (Hex nut) and 125700-01 (Lock washer) for 1/2″-18 UNF installations.
- Test Set: TK-3 or TK-3E Portable Vibration Calibrator for field loop checks.

