Based on the high pressure ranges at which they operate, measuring the position of the hydraulic valve can be challenging. A properly designed linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) sensor can solve this problem. That is exactly what German manufacturer INELTA did.
Mounted inside the existing hydraulic valve assemblies, the LVDT’s electromagnetic coupling measures the core placement inside valve. There are other mounting options. For continuous sensing applications, the sensors can be mounted to the hydraulic valve in the end position behind the magnet or in an intermediate position in between the magnet and the valve block. Another option is coupling the LDVT sensor to the valve anchor with a non-magnetic core extension.
A pressure-sealed design is essential for proper operation in the hydraulic environment. The pressure-sealed design of these LVDT sensors has a IP65 protection level for the housing. Components that contact hydraulic fluid are pressure-resistant up to 400 bar (5,800psi) and can withstand pressure peaks up to 1,200 bar (17,400psi).
For more information about INELTA LVDT available from Hoffmann + Krippner, click here.