Miniature inductive sensors from Balluff
07 November 2012
To reduce machinery weight and shipping costs and to cut costly factory floor space requirements, machine manufacturers strive to keep their equipment designs as compact as possible.
These newer, smaller models are not expected to compromise on performance, in fact they are expected to outperform their larger predecessors. Historically M8, M12, M18, and M30 tubular sensors have been the sensors of choice, but these are starting to be replaced with smaller sensors in diameter, length and weight - all of which are important.
Balluff's miniature inductive range comprise of the mini-inductives in 3mm, 4mm and M5 housing and the 6.5mm and M8 SuperShorties with a body length of only 6mm. Both ranges have a nominal 1.5 mm sensing range and can survive in close proximity to industrial processes where shock, vibration, and liquid or particulate contamination would quickly take optical sensors out of action.
Housed in stainless steel they have a protection rating of IP67 and are available in connector or cable versions. Though tiny the entire electronics are integrated into the housing so no need for external amplifiers. Weighing just 0.7g make them ideal for applications involving extremely rapid accelerations such as pick and place.
Inductives are just part of Balluff's new generation of miniature sensors which also include photoelectrics, capacitives, magnetic field, high pressure sensors and magnetic linear encoders.
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