Mechanism Of Linear Position Sensors

By Author: Control Products
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Linear position sensors can measure absolute distance along a motion axis. There are a number of different models that have their own advantages and disadvantages. Magnetostrictive and hydraulic cylinder sensors are the more popular types of sensors. You must choose a sensor that is most appropriate for your specific application.

Sensors are required in many different types of industrial processing equipment to provide the information required for process monitoring and control. Sensors are designed for measuring different variables such as pressure, temperature, position, flow and force. The type of measurements and sensor technology required determines the size and specification of the appropriate sensor.

Linear position sensors are created using different technologies, which all have their own pros and cons. Even with the different models the main purpose of all of them is to measiure absolute distance along a motion axis. Magnetostrictive linear position sensors have become popular, thanks to their reliability and accuracy. The sensor measures the distance between a position magnet and the head end of the ...
... sensing rod. Since the position magnet does not come into direct contact with the sensing rod no parts wear become worn from use.

A position magnet is attached to the moving member while the sensing rod is mounted along the motion axis. An electronics module in the head of the rod reports the position information to a controller in a digital format.

Five basic components of magnetostrictive position sensors are the position magnet, electronics module, waveguide, pickup and damp. An electrical connection interface is incorporated in the electronics housing through an integral connector or cable. A sisual diagnostic LED ensures adequate wiring, magnet positioning and power.

Magnetostriction is a property of certain materials including iron, cobalt, nickel and some alloys. Application of a magnetic field causes a strain, which causes a change in the size or shape of the material. This happens due to the alignment of the magnetic domains within the material. You can envision a magnetic domain as tiny magnet particles randomly arranged before the magnetic field is applied.

Hydraulic cylinder sensors use non-contacting Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT) sensor technology with sensors residing completely within the cylinder. No core-drilling of the rod is required for installation of the sensor.

To buy cylinder sensors, magnetostrictive sensors or any other such instruments, settle on a manufacturer who has a strong reputation in the industry. You can rely on them for sourcing high quality products.

The author of the article is associated with Control Products Inc. that deals in equipment like magnetostrictive sensors, cylinder sensors, momentary switches, limit switches, plunger switches, waterproof switch panels and other such products.