Is the 3500 Product Line Obsolete?
Many customers have inquired whether the Bently Nevada 3500 Machinery Monitoring System is considered “obsolete.” The answer is straightforward: No, it is not. While we encourage new installations to consider the Orbit 60 system, which offers integrated machine condition monitoring and protection with enhanced features, the 3500 remains a reliable, well-established choice for critical machinery protection.
Why the 3500 System Still Matters
The 3500 system has been a staple in the industry for over 24 years and continues to be fully supported. With more than 80,000 installations globally and 5,000 new systems being installed annually, the 3500 is far from obsolete. It remains a trusted and viable machinery protection solution. This long-standing success underscores its reliability and global acceptance in a wide range of industries.
A Legacy Built on Expertise
Bently Nevada has more than 60 years of experience in machinery protection and condition monitoring. The 3500 product line embodies this legacy, incorporating decades of domain knowledge into a robust, scalable, and flexible platform. After over 20 years of continuous development, the system has evolved into a finely tuned tool specifically designed to protect critical machinery reliably.
The 3500 also integrates seamlessly with Bently Nevada’s advanced software, like System 1, which enables in-depth diagnostics for proactive maintenance and condition-based monitoring.
Investing in the Future of 3500
Bently Nevada remains committed to the future of the 3500 system. In 2016 and 2017, significant investments were made to update the electronics and PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly) modules to meet RoHS standards. This not only aligns with environmental regulations but also ensures a longer lifespan and improved product quality. The updated boards, now blue instead of green, feature advanced manufacturing technologies like 3D X-ray inspection and laser profiling to guarantee premium quality.
No Immediate Need to Upgrade
For existing installations, there is no urgent need to upgrade unless your operational requirements demand the advanced capabilities of a system like Orbit 60. The 3500 remains perfectly suitable for ongoing machinery protection and condition monitoring needs. Unless there is a specific need for additional functionalities, upgrading the 3500 system is unnecessary.
Built on a Foundation of Quality
Manufactured and assembled in Minden, Nevada, the 3500 system is a testament to Bently Nevada's heritage of quality and reliability. With state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, including over $10MM invested in the latest PCBA prototyping and assembly lines, the company ensures the highest standards are met in every product.
