In his post, When Do You Specify An Inductive Sensor?, Shawn Day (Market Manager, Inductive Sensors) discusses selection criteria and application for inductive proximity sensors. In that article, Shawn focuses on what are sometimes referred to as discrete sensors – sensors that detect the presence of a metal target, and then turn on (or turn off). As Shawn points out, there are many, many applications for this type of discrete sensing.
But what if just indicating the presence or absence of a part is not enough? What if you need to know not only if a part is in a particular position or not, but rather you need to know exactly where the part is at any given point along its entire range of travel? That’s where analog, or continuous, inductive position sensors come into play.
Analog inductive sensors employ basically the same technology as discrete proximity sensors. That is, they use inductive coils to generate eddy currents that respond to a metal target. But, unlike discrete sensors, analog inductive sensors provide a continuously variable output, not just an on/off change of state.
Analog inductive sensors are available in numerous form factors. For example, tubular analog inductive sensors, which look just like their discrete cousins, and which typically use a single inductive coil, are used primarily for very short-range (short stroke) applications.
Block-style, or bar-style analog inductive sensors employ an array of coils, usually situated side-by-side, and are useful where longer linear ranges are needed.
Some applications for analog inductive include:
- Distance measurement
- Part thickness measurement
- Machine tool spindle position
- Position monitoring on grippers and clamps
- Material handling and automated assembly
For more information on analog inductive sensors, visit www.balluff.us
Thank for the comment and question.
A typical analog Inductive sensor will perform in the -10°C range moving upwards to about 70°C. The reason for this is that the electronics simply cannot operate at the extremely low temperatures providing an analog output. We do offer other Inductive sensor that have a discrete output that will manage -40°C however if indeed your application calls for a voltage or current output this is going to be a very challenging application. I would suggest contacting our applications group to discuss your application in detail to determine possibilities and alternatives to other sensor options.
Thanks for your interest in Balluff product.
Shawn
Hi Shawn
Yes I realise it is a bit low. I can find analogue proximity devices to -40 and switches to -60.
The quantities will be 1000-5000 pa & I will also need IP67 rating.
As the sensor is only operating for 5-10 secs , 100 times over a 12 hour period I am thinking of local heating.
Any other ideas for a proximity sensor with analogue output at -60?
I am using it as a low cost absolute position device.
Ian
Hi Ian,
Please contact our technical support team, they can answer all your questions and help you find what you need! You can email them at technical.support@balluff.com or by calling 1-800-543-8390.
I would like an analogue inductive sensor that works down to -60 deg C
Do you have any ideas?