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MTS Sensors Improves Linear-Position Sensor Vibration Tolerance
CARY, N.C. – MTS Systems Corp., Sensors Division has further improved the design of its Temposonics linear-position sensors to increase the sensors’ longevity in high-vibration applications like those in the wood industry. The High Vibration Resistance option (HVR) increases the vibration tolerance from 15g to 30g (10-2000 Hz) in MTS’ R-Series Analog, R-Series SSI, and G-Series sensors, and further increases the longevity of the sensors. These developments, in addition to the rugged durability of their non-contact magnetostrictive technology, make MTS’ Temposonics linear-position sensors ideal for wood industry applications including all types of sawmill machinery, plywood and veneer equipment, portable mills and tree harvesting and processing attachments.
The wood industry requires a wide range of machinery that must operate under harsh conditions while providing accurate performance. Downtime and lost productivity are expensive, and linear-position sensors are critical components in maintaining an efficient operation.
The robustness and reliability of MTS Temposonics R-Series and G-Series linear-position sensors can greatly reduce maintenance costs, and quite often, can be used to extend the life of older machines. R-Series and G-Series linear position sensors provide a cost-effective solution for applications that demand tough, low-maintenance position sensors that ensure accuracy and production efficiency.
MTS’ Temposonics linear-position sensors employ non-contact, magnetostrictive sensing technology, which, by eliminating wear, provide users with much higher durability and output reliability than other technologies such as potentiometers or optical encoders.
The changes made to MTS’ Temposonics R- and G-Series linear-position sensors are designed to increase the longevity of the sensors’ High Vibration Resistance (HVR) option, which doubles the prior vibration resistance of 15g. The improved linear-position sensors can survive impact forces of 100g and continuous vibration of up to 30g (from 10-2000 Hz), which significantly increases their longevity, especially in harsh environments and high-vibration applications.
MTS’ R-Series sensors are rugged, industrial sensors that provide absolute, linear-position measurement with high-performance output protocols. With linearity down to +/- 20 microns or better, resolution of 1 micron, and repeatability within 0.001%, these sensors are ideal for applications that require accuracy, reliability, and consistency.
G-Series sensors are rugged, industrial sensors that provide highly accurate measurements in either analog or digital outputs, offer enhanced diagnostics and programming capabilities, and are designed for backwards compatibility with legacy Temposonics products.
Both series are easy to install and are preset with individual parameters according to order specifications to avoid time-consuming on-site calibration.
MTS Systems Corp
www.mtssensors.com
Laser Sensor Can Measure Displacement 2 Meters From Sensor
Measurement technology company Micro-Epsilon has launched a new laser sensor with a 1m measuring range. The optoNCDT 1710-1000 sensor has a measuring range that starts from a distance of one metre from the sensor, so displacement can be measured at a distance of 2m from the sensor. The sensor comes with an integrated controller in a compact 200mm x 83mm x 48mm housing. The diameter of the light spot is constant across the complete beam path. With a measuring rate of 2.5kHz, the sensor is technically superior to existing alternative sensors on the market, providing 100µm resolution without averaging. 4-20 mA, 0-10V, RS422 or USB outputs are available.
The optoNCDT 1710-1000 is used for measurement objects that have a high degree of freedom or movement. Other potential applications are in harsh ambient conditions, where the sensor has to measure onto the object from a safe distance or if the target is in a vacuum. The sensor also performs very well in high target temperatures or when it is not possible to mount the sensor close to the target. Like all other models in the 1700 series, the optoNCDT 1710-1000 also benefits from a unique RTSC circuit for the real-time compensation of surface influences. This means that a high quality signal is obtained even when changing reflections occur from the target surface.
TURCK Linear position Sensors Replace Magnetostrictive and Potentiometer Devices
Minneapolis, MN — TURCK’s new LI-Q25 series linear position sensors replace magnetostrictive and potentiometer devices to deliver precise, repeatable measurements in metal processing machines, rolling mills or injection molding machines. Unlike magnetostrictive or magnetic inductive position sensors, LI-Q25 sensors do not require a magnetic positioning device; thus, they are unaffected by metal debris. The sensors provide up to 1 µm resolution and can achieve measuring ranges between 100 and 1,000 mm with analog voltage/current, SSI or I/O Link outputs.
The linear position sensors use emitter and receiver coil systems, precisely arranged on a printed circuit board, that are activated with a high frequency AC field and produce an inductive RLC circuit with the positioning element (resonator). As a result, the resonator is inductively coupled with the receiver coils. Different voltages are induced into the coils depending on the position of the resonator, and these voltages serve as a measure for the sensor signal.
To increase the speed and accuracy of measurement, LI-Q25 series linear position sensors have a coarse and a fine measuring coil system that is microprocessor controlled. An integrated processor provides an output signal in different formats: 0 to 10 V, 4 to 20 mA, IO-Link or SSI.
The linear position sensors have extremely short blind zones of only 29 mm on each side, along with a wide temperature range of -25 to 70°C. The sensors may also be programmed for different measuring ranges.
TURCK
www.turck.us
Sensors Detect Metal Targets In Extreme Heat & Cold
For sensing applications exposed to temperatures from -25 degrees C to +180 degrees C, Baumer has introduced the new IFRH Series of Inductive High Temperature Sensors, a family of two-part proximity switches available in M8, M12 and M18 designs with chromium nickel steel housings.
Intended for flush-face installation, the IP67-rated IFRH sensors are designed to detect the presence of metal targets. With an overall length of just 30 mm, the M8 sensor is specifically designed for use in limited-space applications. Depending upon the housing size, nominal switching distance ranges from 1.5 mm to 5 mm.
An FEP jacketed cable connects the sensor’s temperature-sensitive processing electronics to the sensor head, protecting the electronics from damage. The sensors offer an operating voltage range between 10…30 VDC. These sensors are appropriate for use in aerospace, automotive, marine, PCB fabrication, food and beverage processing, oil processing, laboratory automation, rubber and plastics fabrication, chemical processing, packaging, print/graphics, textile production, and water treatment applications.
Linear Sensor Built For Hydraulic Applications
Position feedback devices are commonly implemented in hydraulic applications for monitoring the performance accuracy of actuators and cylinders to improve operational efficiencies. The environment in which the embedded sensor must survive can be problematic. The hydraulic fluid is under high pressures and temperatures and the actuators and cylinders typically live in environments where heavy shock and or vibration are present.
Macro Sensors offers the HSTA and HSTAR Series of LVDT-based linear position sensors that offer both the environmental resistance and short stroke sensor body length ideal to perform in cylinder applications where sensor length and survival in harsh environments are critical.
While linear position sensors were once considered too long for hydraulic applications, the development of new winding techniques, such as computerized layer winding and improved microprocessing, has considerably reduced the length of the linear position sensor body compared to its measurable stroke length. In fact, for short stroke actuators and cylinders (less than 6”), Macro Sensors linear position sensors can be much shorter than a magnetostrictive sensor.
Hermetically sealed, these ¾ inch (19 mm) diameter, AC-operated linear position sensors can survive and thrive in high temperatures of 200 degrees C and withstand high shocks and vibration. Coil windings are sealed against hostile environments to IEC standard IP-68. Other significant features:
- Offered with either an axial (HSTA) or radial (HSTAR) connector, units can have a through bore for the fluid to pass or can seal the fluid in the RAM. The radial connector makes the installed length of the HSTAR LVDTs at least 2” shorter than comparable units with an axially mounted connector for easier installation in tight spaces.
- Accessible from both ends, , the linear position sensors can be easily cleaned of grit, dirt, dust or other contaminants for greater reliability and longer life.
- Available in ranges of ±0.050 inch (±1.25 mm) to ±10.0 inches (±250 mm), the HSTA and HSTAR Series sensors feature the high resolution, excellent repeatability, and low hysteresis associated with LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) technology, as well as the highest sensitivity consistent with good linearity. The maximum linearity error for any of these sensors is ±0.25% of full range output using a statistically best-fit straight line derived by the least squares method.
Macro Sensors also offers custom designs for higher temperatures and pressure resistance, smaller diameters and connector options.
HSTA and HSTAR Series LVDTs operate properly with any conventional differential input LVDT signal conditioner. Ranges of 1.00 inches or greater will also work with ratiometric LVDT signal conditioning. Macro Sensors offers a full line of LVDT signal conditioners that will deliver optimum performance from any HSTA and HSTAR Series linear position sensor.
Sensor Detects Ozone In Air, Water & Explosive Gases
In Freiburg, Germany, scientists have developed a highly sensitive, miniaturized mobile Ozone sensor. This sensor can be used not only in air, but also in water and in the vicinity of explosive gases.
Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent and can cause a wide range of symptoms in humans, including lacrimation, irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and bronchial tubes, headaches, coughing and even deterioration in lung function.
The main sources of ozone pollution are industrial and transport emissions. Particularly in warmer weather, these react with intensive UV radiation to form ground-level ozone.
But laser printers and copiers, machines so prevalent in modern-day offices, can also emit ozone.
The European Commission has announced its intention to cut the guideline value for ozone in the air from the current level of 90 parts per billion to 60 parts per billion by 2010, and when this new regulation comes into force, there will be an increased demand for inexpensive ozone sensors.
But, according to project manager Dr. Volker Cimalla of the IAF, “Since ozone is, at the same time, an agent with high application potential, novel sensors are required, which have to be compact and affordable.”
Sensors are essential equipment in industrial settings such as wastewater treatment facilities and water sterilization units, where they are used to monitor the ozone concentration – firstly to ensure the required concentration for the relevant application is maintained, and secondly to guard against exceeding hazardous thresholds for humans.
According to Project manager Cimalla, “The ozone sensors currently available on the market employ extremely laborious and complex measuring procedures such as UV absorption and are therefore very expensive.”
“By contrast, the more affordable ozone sensors have to be heated up to 300 degrees Celsius and produce inaccurate readings or only work in limited areas of application,” he said.
“We’ve done away with the need for heating by instead applying blue/violet light radiation to trigger the chemical process necessary for regeneration on the sensor surface. This allows the sensors to operate at room temperature,” he added.
The scientists built on the existing knowledge that molecules absorbed on the surface of a sensing layer alter its electrical resistance – and can also be removed again by light irradiation.
The result is a highly-sensitive, miniaturized sensor capable of measuring the low ozone levels that occur in environmental and ambient air monitoring just as accurately as the high levels associated with industrial process control.
Since the sensor is extremely small, it can even be integrated into mobile equipment.
Position Sensors Ensure Accuracy of Down Hole Drilling Equipment
US-based manufacturer of LVDT Linear Position Sensors and Rotary Position Sensors and Transducers, Macro Sensors, is now serving the petroleum industry with LVDT-based linear position sensors that are used for position feedback control of down hole drilling equipment such as bore scopes that measure the ID of the drilled hole.
SQ 1250 Series Heavy Duty LVDT Position Sensors
The LVDT linear position sensors for down hole applications are custom built to survive high temperatures and high pressure. Units are rated for pressures to 20,000 psi, in electrically non-conductive, chemically benign media, at continuous temperatures as high as 400 degrees F. The high temperature ratings are achieved by using special construction materials for the linear position sensors that include special high melting point soldering. To accommodate high pressures, the sensor case is vented to equalize pressure inside and outside of the LVDT linear position sensor.
Offering a compact 3/8” diameter design, these AC-operated LVDT linear position sensors serve well as an integral part of devices with tight space restrictions. A lightweight low mass core also makes the small, contactless linear position sensors ideal for applications having high dynamic response requirements. Units operate with any conventional differential input LVDT signal conditioners to provide position feedback back to operators at the surface.
For more information on LVDT linear position sensors built for down hole and other refinery applications, contact Macro Sensors at postionsensors@macrosensors.com.
TURCK Expands Line of Low-profile Dual Cylinder Position Sensors
Minneapolis, MN — TURCK announces its BIM-UNT line of compact cylinder position sensors has been expanded to include a new dual sensor for detecting long and short stroke cylinders in stamping, sorting, conveying and other material handling applications. This unique device combines two high-accuracy cylinder position sensors through a single cable connection, reducing wire costs and connection points to expedite installation.
The dual sensor delivers excellent sensitivity and is especially useful for detecting both the home and end positions of a piston during longer stroke cycles. The sensor’s low profile makes it suitable for applications where there is minimal clearance around cylinders, and its single-cable design proves convenient in applications where multiple cylinders are installed.
The BIM-UNT is one of the most compact cylinder position sensors on the market, and it may be mounted in T-groove cylinders without requiring additional tools or accessories. Its active sensing area is located directly at the end of the sensor’s housing, providing accurate piston end detection—even on short stroke cylinders.
Like all TURCK BIM-UNT sensors, the dual sensor may be used with a variety of mounting brackets and cable connections for further installation flexibility. In addition, TURCK provides an extensive line of mounting accessories for tie rod, round and dovetail cylinders.
TURCK
www.turck.us
Mini-Photoelectric Sensor Has Many Installation Options
The new W15 from SICK is a special kind of miniature photoelectric sensor. The latest sensor and evaluation technologies from SICK meet a highly installation-friendly housing design that is common in the US market. Small wonder that the “transatlantic sensor concept” goes down well in Europe, too.
Due to its “USA design,” the series is interesting both for machine constructors active on the American market and for end customers that operate facilities “made in the USA” and are, if required, able to switch quickly to the W15, which is compatible with respect to mounting and connecting. However, for “European-oriented” clients, too, the W15 is very interesting, considering the elegant mounting options that offer benefits specifically in warehousing and handling systems.
The BGS photoelectric proximity sensor is the star of the series
The W15 is a complete production series. All of the devices share an IP67 enclosure rating. The remarkable thing is that besides the usual complementary output configuration, a bipolar output configuration, i.e. PNP and NPN function in one device, is possible as well. The WSE15 through-beam photoelectric sensor and the WL15 photoelectric reflex sensor alike offer ranges of up to 5 m. Both devices generate a sharp light spot that facilitates alignment of the sensor considerably. The energetic photoelectric proximity sensor convinces with a scanning distance of 350 mm.
The highlight of the series, however, is the WTB15 BGS photoelectric proximity sensor. The sensor combines PinPoint technology with innovative chip technology that involves more than a dozen receiving elements, allowing not only precise and stable background suppression and suppression of extraneous light but also electronic and drift-free adjustment of the scanning range. Object detection occurs independent of color and surface properties, which means that no sensor readjustments are necessary.
Maximum possibilities for installation
Featuring three different installation options, the W15 series leaves hardly anything to be desired. On the one hand, the sensors can be mounted by means of side mounting using the lateral through holes in the housing. In addition, the sensors’ M18 threads offer the possibility of front mounting by means of plastic nut or – particularly elegant – by means of snap-ring. The latter option permits the sensor to be installed flush and blind zone-free, for example, on the lateral guide rail of a roller conveyor, thus allowing object detection at close range without the sensor impeding the material flow on the conveyor system.
Unobstructed view of the sensor status
Independent of the respective installation situation, the W15 sensors provide an unobstructed view of the power and status display: on the one hand, from above directly on to the indicator LEDs; on the other hand, from behind through the transparent back cover of the device.
New SmartPAC2 Now Has Capability to Learn On Its Own
Wintriss Controls introduced a new version of its SmartPAC 2 Servo Press Automation Control. The new SmartPAC 2 Servo uses an advanced linear sensor to monitor the slide position, and features the ability to “learn” and automatically save the upper and lower limits for up to ten stages of slide movement per cycle.
To take advantage of the versatility of the servo press, the SmartPAC 2 Servo allows the user to select one of three slide motion tracking curves for each job:
The SmartPAC 2 Servo allows the user to set individual limit switches to activate only during specific stages, as well as the ability to monitor die protection sensors only during the stages where they will actuate. These features are invaluable when controlling and monitoring jobs that require multiple stages to make a part.
Options include an 8 or 15 output ProCamPAC programmable limit switch, an 8, 16, or 32 input DiProPAC die protection system, and a 2 or 4 input AutoSetPAC tonnage monitor. The SmartPAC 2 Servo is also compatible with the Wintriss LETS Line Efficiency Tracking Software.
Standard features include a large 10.4″ color display, on-board memory to store settings for up to 200 jobs, built-in onscreen help, and standard SmartPAC 2 connectivity features such as text messaging, online memory backup, and the SmartView web interface.
