Bently Nevada 3500/15-IS Power Supply Module – Reliable, Redundant Power for 3500 Machinery Protection Racks

The Bently Nevada 3500/15-IS is a rack-mounted power supply module designed for the 3500 series machinery protection system. It delivers stable power across the entire rack and, in most cases, is paired with a second supply for full redundancy and automatic failover. The “-IS” designation is typically selected where intrinsically safe channel strategies are used, helping support hazardous-area deployments when matched with the correct I/O and system approvals.

• Rack-wide power distribution – Feeds all installed 3500 modules via the backplane, keeping the protection and condition monitoring channels energized.

• Redundancy-ready design – Two power supplies can be installed; either unit can carry the full rack load with automatic switchover if one fails.

• AC or DC input variants – Typically available in universal AC and DC input options to match plant power; ideal for standard MCCs or telecom/UPS feeds.

• IS-aligned variant – The 3500/15-IS is commonly used alongside intrinsically safe I/O strategies for hazardous areas (confirm final approvals with your BoM).

• Hot-swappable service – In most cases, replacement can be done with the rack powered and the system running, reducing downtime risk.

• Status indication – Front-panel LEDs provide at-a-glance health and power status, which operators usually appreciate during startup checks.

• Drop-in fit – Slides into the dedicated 3500 power-supply slots; no field wiring to the module face—clean and tidy installation.

This module is typically deployed wherever a Bently Nevada 3500 rack is protecting critical rotating assets. From my experience, it suits:

• Oil & Gas – compressors, turbines, pumps on production skids and pipelines.

• Petrochemical & Refining – critical pumps, blowers, and expanders in hazardous areas.

• Power Generation – steam/gas turbines, generators, boiler feedwater pumps.

• Mining & Metals – large fans, mills, and process compressors.

• Pulp & Paper – vacuum pumps and critical rotating lines.

• Reliability – Proven rack architecture with redundant power strategy reduces single points of failure.

• Compatibility – Native to the 3500 ecosystem, so no integration surprises; seems to be the least-risk option for brownfield upgrades.

• Lower lifecycle cost – Hot-swap capability and simple diagnostics can shorten outages and avoid emergency callout costs.

• Spares strategy – A second module on the shelf or installed as redundant keeps the rack protected during maintenance.

• Supportability – Widely installed base; technical documentation and service expertise are straightforward to source.

“We replaced a failing supply during a turnaround in minutes—no rework on field wiring and the rack didn’t drop protection.” — Maintenance Lead, gas compression site

• Cabinet and environment – Mount the 3500 rack in a ventilated enclosure; maintain ambient temperature within the specified range and avoid dust or corrosive atmospheres.

• Power and grounding – Provide stable AC or DC feeds per the selected variant. Use clean, properly grounded power; redundant supplies should be on independent feeds where practical.

• Wiring – The power module interfaces through the rack backplane; verify tight rack fasteners and correct slotting before energizing.

• Safety – De-energize the affected feed before handling, observe ESD precautions, and follow site LOTO procedures. Hot-swap is possible in many cases, but follow plant policy.

• Routine checks – Inspect LEDs during walkdowns, clean dust with dry air periodically, and verify redundancy switchover via a planned test if your site procedures allow.

• Firmware/compatibility – Confirm module revision compatibility with your rack hardware and configuration toolset before procurement.

• CE marking for applicable directives.

• UL/cUL or CSA certification for industrial control equipment (variant-dependent).

• RoHS compliance for materials where applicable.

• When used in hazardous locations, pair with the correct 3500 I/O and rack approvals (e.g., ATEX/IECEx Zone 2 on many 3500 deployments—verify for your specific configuration).

• Manufacturer’s standard warranty (commonly 1 year); extended coverage may be available through service agreements.

If you can share your current rack BOM (power input type, redundancy requirement, and any IS channel needs), I can match the exact 3500/15-IS variant and confirm lead time. One thing I appreciate is how predictable these are in the field—get the variant right, and they usually just work.