Rather than frequently replacing a sensor in an abusive welding environment, a new inductive proximity sensor can provide increased impact protection. Balluff’s BunkerProx M18 sensor has a thick housing for withstanding mechanical impact in welding applications. A frontal-impact deflection ring protects the face from repeated welding impacts. In addition, the sensor’s ceramic face resists weld spatter burn-through up to 2200°F. With these and other improvements, the new sensor has demonstrated 10X increased life compared to a previous design. The M18 sensor has a PNP, normally open output and a sensing range of 4 mm.
For more info on Balluff’s BunkerProx M18 proximity sensor go to http://www.balluff.com/Balluff/us/NewsChannel/News/en/Bunkerprox+Inductive+sensors.htm