WE SHARE OUR PASSION FOR AUTOMATION
Written by: Jeff Himes
An inductive proximity sensor is meant to be a non-contact device. If contact is made with the face of the sensor by its metal target – it will typically fail. What if you want the reliability of an inductive proximity sensor – yet you want physical contact with the device too? Is this really possible? Yes – by using a mechanical device I call a Banking Screw.
Continue reading “Mechanical Probe Eliminates Impact for Inductive Proximity Sensor”
In many cases, the mechanical components of an older machine can basically operate forever. Critical surfaces can be remachined, and bearings and gears can be replaced again and again to restore lost accuracy and repeatability.
But what about the control system? Sometimes older machines are retrofitted with a new controller to enhance its productivity and extend its useful life. Such refits should not stop with the controller alone. Many of the greatest improvements in machine performance can be obtained by upgrading the entire sensor package as well. Sensors are at the heart of today’s automation systems. They provide the critical information and feedback about what the system is doing, and the status and condition of products being handled and produced.
Continue reading “Upgrade Sensors…Upgrade Automation Performance”
Historically the most popular selling housing style for an inductive proximity sensor has been the tubular style. The more popular sizes tend to be M8, M12, M18 and M30. Smaller tubular sizes of 3 mm, 4 mm, M5, and 6.5 mm are also available and have seen increased sales in the most recent years. One issue that may affect a tubular sensor’s application is its length. Most standard models are 50 mm to 65 mm long while some shorter body types may be in the 30mm range. What if your application requires 1.5 to 3 mm of sensing range, but you only have 10mm of depth to allow for the sensor? Try looking at a block or rectangular style inductive proximity sensor.
Continue reading “Save Space with Miniature Rectangular Proximity Sensors”
As I was preparing to write my blog entry, I was browsing my e-mail and came across an article in the October Issue of TIA Newsletter (Totally Integrated Automation) from Automation World, concerning IP Ratings. I found the article , very informative as it broke down the different degrees of IP ratings, as well as some similarity and differences between IP ratings and NEMA ratings. I only wish there was some information involving IP69K.
This article, IP Ratings – What are they and what do they mean, is a great starting point to learn about IP Ratings, I suggest you stop by and read it.
For more information about IP67, check out The Secret of IP67 Protection.
Written by: Jeff Himes
Inductive proximity sensors can be used in a variety of applications. Many special use inductive sensors exist in the market, but you have to be aware these unique models are available.
An overview article addressing this topic was just published in Design World Magazine. Check out this article to learn more about these unique models: Special Application Inductive Proximity Sensors
Written by: Jeff Himes
Discrete (off/on) output inductive proximity sensors are used in a multitude of markets and industries. The number of inductive sensors sold each year is in the millions. With that many pieces being sold each year, one has to ask – how are all of these sensors being used? Their uses break down into 3 common applications.
The 3 most common applications for discrete inductive proximity sensors are:
1.) Machine position verification
2.) Part position verification
3.) Part feature verification
Continue reading “3 Common Applications for Discrete Output Inductive Proximity Sensors”
Written by: Bjoern Schaefer
Capacitive sensors certainly serve a niche within the group of proximity sensors. This niche makes people overlook the most striking feature this technology provides us – remote detection of any liquid through glass or plastic walls. On the first look that does not sound too exciting and I agree, as long as you have not been tasked to specify a sensor to accomplish this very job.
Continue reading “The Killer Application for Capacitive Sensors”
Written by: Jeff Himes
“Downtime” is never a good word in any manufacturing facility. It means something has malfunctioned or broken, parts are not being made, production is reduced, and money is being lost. In some cases this downtime may be caused by a physically damaged inductive proximity sensor. If this failure mode is happening on a regular basis to the same location, it may be time to look at the advantages a prox mount can provide.
Continue reading “Inductive Sensor Protection and Positioning Made Easy – Use a Prox Mount”
There are three general classes of position sensors that – taken together – form a position sensing hierarchy. This hierarchy applies to any underlying sensing technology, for example inductive, capacitive, ultrasonic, or photoelectric. Going from the most basic to the most advanced sensor operation, the hierarchy includes:
Continue reading “The 3-Tiered Position Sensing Hierarchy”
Written by: Jeff Himes
Selecting the correct inductive proximity sensor for an application can be an intimidating process. There are literally thousands of models available from various vendors so having a good starting point to narrow down the field is essential.
At this point is will be assumed that an Inductive Proximity Sensor is the type of sensor being selected. If you are at the beginning of your selection process, please read and earlier blog post pertaining to your initial sensor selection.
Continue reading “8 Selection Criteria to Remember When Choosing an Inductive Sensor”
