Cylinder sensors.

The latest technological advances in solid-state cylinder technology enable maintenance or service engineers to solve multiple pneumatic or electric drive issues with a single device, according to Festo.

“Solid-state switches are today's default technology option,” says Steve Sands, Head of Product Management at Festo GB. “Their absence of moving, mechanical components gives them a long lifespan, with mean time between failure (MTBF) of more than 4000 years. This means solid-state switches are the technology of choice over traditional reed switches in around 90% of pneumatic and electric drive applications.”
 

Modern automation machinery uses positional feedback to trigger sequential movements. In pneumatic applications, this takes the form of cylinder sensors that detect the position of the piston within the actuator. Similarly, the sensors act as movement reference points in electric axes and prevent clashes or over-runs.

Solid-state sensors are typically constructed with four magneto resistive sensors connected in a Wheatstone Bridge. When the cylinder piston magnet reaches the solid-state switch, the individual sensors' resistance changes, altering the bridge voltage. After amplification and processing, this creates an output signal from the solid-state sensor. As a result, solid-state sensors are protected against overload, reverse polarity and short circuits. They are also immune to wear and tear and insensitive to inductive and capacitive loads. Typically, the maximum current is 100 mA, and the maximum cable length is 30 m.

The latest solid-state sensors from Festo have moved the technology on another step. The Festo SDBT-MSX incorporates Hall Effect sensors and a micro-controller that enable approximate setting of the sensor, with the actual switching point being 'self-taught' by cycling the actuator a few times. This means that the actuator is driven to its end positions and the sensor learns the required switching point. Adopting this technology saves set-up and commissioning times and means a person doesn't have to enter inside the machinery whilst the power is on, reducing risk.

Incorporating a micro-controller also means that the sensor’s functions – NPN or PNP switching, Normally Open or Normally Closed switching, or output signal duration – can be modified easily: meaning maintenance or service engineers can solve multiple issues with a single device.

@FestoGB @festo_global @Publitek #PAuto

Speed and proximity.

Following Variohm Holding’s recent acquisition of Phoenix America, several new component lines have been added to Variohm EuroSensor’s product range. This product expansion includes magnetically actuated speed and proximity measurement sensors comprising separate solid-state sensor housings and high density magnetic target components. 

The speed sensors provide a digital on/off output derived from a tight magnetic tolerance around a zero Gauss level that provides a 50% ‘duty cycle’ that can be used to determine rotational speed on motors or other rotating equipment. Proximity sensors also utilize Phoenix America’s well proven magnetic technology as solid-state or passive reed-switch devices for positional sensing for datum (home) or limit (end of travel) sensing.

For both speed and proximity sensor types, a wide variety of competitively-priced housing designs provide complete installation flexibility between the sensing and target elements with a choice of linear or angular orientation. Sensor housings range from thermoplastic moulded flat disc designs complete with mounting holes, integral wiring and connectors to threaded barrel types with integrated connectors in thermoplastic or nickel plated brass, complete with locking nuts. The magnetic target components for speed sensing are available in a variety of designs as solid thermoplastic encapsulated magnet discs with radial or face mounted magnets. Various diameters are available, typically with a central through hole for motor mounting. Target magnets for proximity sensing can be mounted for head-on or slide-by actuation.

Typical electrical operational range for the sensor electronics is 4 to 24 VDC with a 20 mA current sinking output determined by supply voltage and resistance values. With their non-contacting design and typical working temperature range from -40°C to 125°C, extremely long working life and exceptional durability is assured and with a large air-gap tolerance, installation is straightforward.

Phoenix America’s design and manufacturing capability extends to a wide range of other magnetic based sensing technologies that include magnetic encoders, gear tooth sensors, hall commutators for motors and other magnet based assemblies. A custom design service is available for specialised magnetic sensor applications. Variohm EuroSensor also fully support these other Phoenix America product lines across all of its sales channels and distribution outlets.

@Variohm @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Inductive Safety Sensor.

The new family of safety sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs includes four cylindrical and rectangular series with cable and plug connection.

The sensors are TÜV-certified in accordance with the Machinery Directive (EN 13849) Performance Level PLd, Category 2, and SIL 2. They are used to safeguard machines and plant components as well as for reliable position detection within this environment. Inductive sensors with an increased temperature range, as well as increased EMC resistance and E1 approval for the use of mobile machinery and vehicles in safety-critical areas, round off this new portfolio.

These safety proximity sensors do not require a special coded target and can therefore be used with standard metal actuators. The sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs have no blind zone and can therefore be mounted easily and without any additional adjustment.

The sensors are equipped with standardized OSSD outputs (Output Signal Switching Device) for signals and diagnostics that can be connected to a safety module or a corresponding control panel.

The inductive safety sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs have very high characteristic safety values due to the electronics used. As a result, the regular functional inspections are required significantly less often, and integration into the safety loop is notably more straightforward.

 @PepperlFuchs #PAuto

Proximity sensor shaft calibration.

Metrix’s newly announced 9060-SCTS shaft calibration system pairs with the industrial condition monitoring system manufacturer’s Digital Proximity System (DPS) and associated Metrix hardware to enable custom shaft calibration in the field even when shaft material is not known. Available with full support in Britain from Ixthus Instrumentation, the 9060-SCTS (Shaft Calibrator Touch Select) is used to adjust the gap in pre-set micron level increments for calibrating proximity probe systems and thanks to the powerful DPS software, allows the user to change the configuration.

The Metrix DPS combines the performance of a fully API 670 compliant eddy-current proximity measurement system with the flexibility of digital configurability. The field-configurable measurement system for position, radial vibration and speed is well proven where critical plant equipment such as motors, compressors, pumps and other rotating machines or piston based machines need to be closely monitored for optimal reliability. Typical systems for use with the DPS comprise a digital proximity transducer, interfacing cable and a choice of signal conditioner - available as a driver for a machinery protection system or as a transmitter with a 4-20 mA signal to a PLC/DCS or SCADA system.

Together with the latest free-of-charge software version of the Metrix DPS, the 9060-SCTS is used to determine the actual proximity probe system output in mV/mil or mV/μm of a machine shaft or piston rod. Comprising a self-aligning cradle and a precision ‘micrometer head’ that positions the inserted proximity sensor under test in fixed 200 micron or 0.010” increments, the system measures output at these fixed increments and is capable of ‘straight-line’ re-calibration where material properties are not known. In this way the complete DPS system is capable of supporting a multitude of older probe systems, cable lengths, and target materials with just a single device.

The 9060-SCTS is compatible with 5 to 22 mm probe tip diameters and with a special adapter plate works with reverse mount probes. For ease of use, the displacement is adjusted by twisting a gap adjustment ring and feeling for set ‘clicks’ that correspond to the required probe calibration increments. After each increment is completed the DPS software, which has probe characteristics and part number recognition built-in, is manually commanded to record the output value. An adjusting strap allows the mounting adapter to fit on shafts from 25 mm up to 300 mm diameter. The shaft calibrator is manufactured in composite plastic material that does not affect probe sensitivity.

@IxthusInst  #TandM #Metrix

Proximity detection warning.

Nanotron Technologies GmbH, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sensera Limited, and industrial safety solutions provider Selectronic have announced their first joint product: the PDS2400 Collision Avoidance Solution (CAS) for open-pit mine safety

The PDS2400 is an RF-based proximity detection solution that supports collision awareness and proximity warning between fast moving vehicles, as well as between vehicles and people. Unlike competitor solutions, it provides a turnkey, ready-to-go system, which requires zero calibration before use.

The new solution helps mine operators ensure that they comply with all relevant safety legislation, such as Mine Safety & Health Administration (MSHA) regulations in the USA. The PDS2400 CAS solution includes state-of-the-art vehicle systems with Controller Area Network (CAN) bus-based displays and personnel tags with wireless Qi chargers, and operates for up to 50 hours between charges.

The PDS2400 provides proximity alerts with two viewing options: quad sectors or hex sectors. The standard system provides an accuracy of 1m over long ranges of 100m or more, while an optional dual-mode tag can provide even higher accuracy down to 10cm at short ranges of 10m.

For high reliability, the system provides robust resistance against electromagnetic disturbances, whilst the personnel tag utilises a 'body pervasive' antenna design. There are three adjustable warning zones, and the vehicle system provides 'nuisance alarm suppression' for the driver.

Dr Jens Albers, CEO of nanotron, said: "Selectronic is very well known for its innovative mining safety solutions, and the PDS2400 proximity solution leverages nanotron’s strength in location awareness to bring an entirely new level of accuracy and simplicity to the industry."

Jens Richter, Managing Director of Selectronic, said: "Nanotron’s market-leading expertise in location awareness has enabled us to quickly and economically develop a powerful, robust, industry-grade collision avoidance system."

The PDS2400 uses nanotron’s tag-ready swarm bee products, a family of smart RF modules with ready-made anchors. Swarm bee enables Selectronic to provide a modular solution, with a common pin-out and API, which simplifies development and hardware integration, and thereby greatly reduces time-to-market.

With a coverage range of up to 500m, swarm bee modules can track objects with an accuracy down to 10cm. They provide a power-efficient approach that extends battery life of mobile devices and smoothly scales up and down to meet specific customer requirements.

@nanotron_Berlin #selectronic-funk #Mining

Capacitive proximity switches.

With its new range of capacitive products, Leuze electronic is introducing contactless, wear-free switches which are resistant to electromagnetic influences, interference and contaminants in the air such as dust.

The capacitive switches are available in cylindrical or cubic designs with flush and non-flush mounting options to suit the widest range of applications. Due to their semiconductor technology they have an extremely long life expectancy, regardless of the detection and switching frequency. Whether solid, liquid or granular - capacitive sensors are capable of detecting various objects independently of their material and shape, without contact and without reaction.

They are particularly suitable for detecting objects in harsh and dirty environments due to their IP67 housing. Because of their ability to "see through" certain materials they are particularly suited for use in the packaging industry, detecting products in outer packaging and behind container walls, checking and monitoring fill levels for completeness.

@TheSensorPeople #PAuto

Adding sensing intelligence to your product!

LeddarTech has  released its Leddar™One Sensing Module, a more compact and low-cost alternative that brings valuable sensing intelligence to a whole new range of finished products.

This single-element sensing module is particularly suitable for applications such as level sensing, security and surveillance and proximity detection, just to name a few. The Leddar™One’s focused, yet conic beam offers excellent overall range and performance.

Moreover, the module’s small form factor, adaptability, easy integration, low power consumption and high accuracy give developers and integrators great flexibility to enhance their own branded products, bringing a new dimension to their innovations.
As with all Leddar™ sensing modules, the Leddar™One comes with dedicated configuration software (Leddar™Configurator) and a development kit (Leddar™ Enabler SDK) containing libraries and examples. The code can be easily ported to any system, resulting in fast integration of the sensor in the final application.

“The Leddar™One simplifies sensing and integration, thereby facilitating our customers’ innovation process, regardless of their final application,” mentioned Sonia Bélanger, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at LeddarTech. “And with its low price point, it’s a great way to add a lucrative feature to OEM products.” 

Investigating aero-engine technologies!

Monitran supports the Oxford Turbine Research Facility in its investigations into future aero-engine technologies

Monitran is providing specialist engineering services to the Oxford Turbine Research Facility (OTRF), part of the Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford (GB).

Monitran has designed and is supplying high-accuracy signal conditioning units for interfacing with hundreds of thin film heat transfer gauges; which the OTRF has fitted to a full working section of a turbine in order to investigate a variety of turbine blade cooling techniques.

Kam Chana, Commercial & Technical Director of the OTRF, comments: “While we could have outsourced to a traditional CEM we selected Monitran because of their engineering professionalism when it comes to taking on specialist projects and their considerable experience in conditioning small signals.”

Working from schematics provided by the OTRF, and using appropriate CAD software, Monitran designed a double-sided, eight channel analogue circuit board. Each channel is isolated and particular attention was paid to the use of ground planes to screen signal paths into high gain amplifiers. The boards, which are housed in a 19-inch rack system, have been tested at sample rates of 1MHz, as the rationale behind the OTRF’s use of thin film heat transfer gauge sensors is that they have response times in the order of 1μs.

Andy Anthony, Managing Director of Monitran, comments: “This was and continues to be a very interesting project for us and we’re pleased to be supporting the Oxford Turbine Research Facility and the University of Oxford in their investigations into future aero-engine technologies. Also, the service we’re providing gives further testimony of our ability to undertake bespoke projects and deliver professionally engineered ‘turnkey’ solutions.”

To date, Monitran has manufactured 20 signal conditioning units for the OTRF and is on hand to produce more if required; and another reason for the company’s selection by the OTRF was its ability to deliver consistent quality.

Safe, non-contact monitoring

Pilz has now added the safe proximity switch PSENini to its safe sensor technology portfolio. PSENini detects the approach of metallic objects without using contacts. Safe detection is provided even on multiple position applications – with long cams or rotational movements. The non-wearing technology is particularly suitable for high switching frequencies and guarantees high productivity and a long service life.

PSENini are available in an IP67 design and so are suitable for use under difficult industrial conditions such as heavy soiling, shock or vibration.

The safe proximity switches supply signals relating to positions and end limits and detect metal objects with high repetition accuracy. As a result, the positions of machine components such as turntables or robots’ rotational movements can be monitored safely, so that the production process is not compromised.

The safe proximity switches provide short reaction times and user-friendly diagnostics via LED. This means that error sources can be identified as quickly as possible when a machine suffers from a safety-related shutdown.

Safe proximity switches PSENini can be connected in series – even in conjunction with Pilz safety switches PSENcode and safety gate systems PSENslock.

Series connection saves on inputs and therefore reduces the wiring effort. So less work is involved in project configuration and installation, plus there are fewer costs. What's more, existing plant and machinery can easily be retrofitted via safe semiconductor outputs.

Whether used individually or connected in series, the safe proximity switches meet the safety requirements for applications up to PL e of EN/ISO 13849-1 or Cat. 4 of
EN 954-1 and SIL CL 3 of EN 62061.

Proximity switches

Versatile new proximity switches

Gems Sensors and Controls has announced the launch of a new range of magnetically actuated proximity switches for a wide range of customer applications. Versatile, low cost and compact, these new switches are hermetically sealed for long lasting performance and easy installation.

The PRX-100 Series of high performance, moisture resistant proximity switches is designed for use as a safety switch. Made from tough Noryl® material, the PRX-100 Series is UL 508 Listed, corrosion resistant, and has no standby power requirements or moving parts delivering a truly high performance switch. The PRX-100 is designed for long life and easy installation in a variety of applications including: industrial washers, equipment automation, medical instruments, and safety interlocks.

The Gems PRX-300 Series offers cost effective, high performance, reed switch stress relief technology for use as safety switches. Made with a robust glass filled Nylon® housing, the proximity switches are naturally corrosion resistant and are UL pending with no standby power requirements or moving parts. The PRX-300 switches are designed for long lasting performance and are easy to install for a variety of applications including: security systems, door interlocks, safety interlocks, position indication, and equipment automation.

The PRX-XX Series of versatile, low-cost proximity switches is designed for dry applications. Constructed with robust housings made from ABS material, the PRX-XX Series has no standby power requirements and no moving parts. The switches are designed for long lasting performance and are easy to install for a variety of general purpose applications including: security systems, household appliances, and door interlocks.

“The innovative new range of proximity switches from Gems Sensors offers customers a wide variety of affordable choices that can be used across any type of customer application. Gems is proud to continue to expand our product line with new solutions for our customers” says Kevin Castonguay, Product Marketing Manager for Gems Sensors & Controls.

"No matter the application, Gems Sensors & Controls has a proximity switch solution to meet any customer price or performance target."