Novotechnik’s linear position sensors now available with CANopen interface
Recently announced by the German sensor specialist Novotechnilk, and available from UK distributor Variohm EuroSensor, the long-range TP1 and TH1 absolute linear sensors now have a CANopen interfacing option. Both of these models feature Novotechnik’s magnetostrictive technology which provides touchless and wear-free linear position measurement with up to 1 micron resolution over the entire travel range up to 4250 mm.
ATEX-compliant geared motors boost efficiency in harsh processing applications
WEG, manufacturer of motor and drive technology, has launched ATEX-compliant geared motors to help companies operating in hazardous areas improve reliability while reducing energy consumption and operating costs. Combining robust gear units from WEG’s subsidiary WATT Drive with energy-efficient W22X motors – available in frame sizes from IEC 71 to IEC 800 and energy efficiency classes up to IE4 – the new range is claimed to be ideal for harsh processing applications in nearly all industries worldwide.
Insight into new rotary actuator and sensor that can be ‘installed in seconds’
Festo, supplier of automation equipment, has launched a new semi-rotary vane drive – the DRVS – with a unique new sensor solution which can be fitted in seconds. This enables machine builders and engineers to save valuable installation time and associated costs, and it provides excellent performance at an attractive price.
Rockwell Automation and ACTOM Electrical Machines collaboration results in ‘oil and gas’ hazardous area certification
Rockwell Automation and local electro-mechanical equipment solutions provider ACTOM Electrical Machines have been awarded a hazardous area certification for the oil and gas industry by Explolabs. The Exn certification was awarded subsequent to the testing and assessment of the ACTOM MS4 452-4 non-sparking Ex nA IIA and IIB T3 motor and Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 7000 Medium Voltage AC Drive combination(s) for compliance to ‘Electrical apparatus for explosive gas atmospheres – General Requirements’ (SANS 60079-0: 2012 Ed 5) and ‘Equipment protection by type of protection ‘n’’ (SANS 60079-15: 2010 Ed 4).
Portable high precision sensor measurement tool for test, calibration and fault finding
Now available in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation, Burster’s new TRANS CAL 7281 is a high precision hand-held portable test and calibration tool for sensor components used on equipment such as hydraulic presses, torque tools, high precision measuring devices and pressure-regulating systems on assembly lines. The battery or mains powered instrument supports strain gauge/normalised signal ± 5 V, ± 10 V, and potentiometric sensors; and includes a strain gauge simulator up to 50 mV/V. Combined with a reference sensor the device provides a high-precision reference measurement chain for force or torque etc. The compact instrument can also be used for routine testing to measure and record isolation resistances and input/output resistances, and as a fault-finding tool for service engineers. An optional factory calibration certificate and/or German accredited DAkkS calibration certificate is available when the measurement device needs to be used as a reference.
OptiSIS solution shortens lead times for safety instrumented systems
Rockwell Automation has introduced its new OptiSIS solution, giving industrial operators a pre-engineered safety instrumented system that can help ease deployment and reduce lead times for small and midsized process applications.
Effective leak detection in oil-based fluid systems
The Spectroline OLK-444 Industrial Leak Detection Kit is a powerful kit that pinpoints leaks in any size oil-based fluid system. It quickly and accurately locates leaks in hydraulic systems, compressors, engines, gearboxes and fuel systems, preventing expensive equipment breakdowns and potential environmental problems.
SKF launches mobile app and vibration sensor for collection of expert data by non-experts
SKF has introduced a solution to help non-expert staff gather critical data. SKF Enlight is a platform that combines a mobile app, special sensor and, if appropriate, intrinsically safe hardware to allow fast, simple gathering of data from machinery.
Cost-effective position sensor for dosing systems
The recently announced WAL200 potentiometric sensor from Contelec is available exclusively in the UK from Variohm EuroSensor. The tried and tested conductive plastic technology potentiometer has been developed specifically as a cost-effective solution for valve position feedback in industrial volumetric and gravimetric dosing applications. The durable and compact sensor is just 22mm in diameter and 7mm thick, with a 6 mm diameter keyed through hole and an anti-twist pin for simple installation in syringe type dispensers. Ensuring high accuracy and repeatability of the dosing process, the sensor has a +/- 1 per cent linearity, +/-0.3 degree resolution and a 280 degree electrical angle, which can be extended to a maximum of 340 degrees. With a generous shock and vibration resistance the IP50 protection class sensor is cost-effective and well-suited solution for precise dosing control.
Rexroth PLC integrates I/O for speed and flexibility
Bosch Rexroth’s IndraControl XM21/22 programmable logic controller (PLC) combines the speed of the Sercos automation bus with Rexroth’s IndraControl S20 input/output (I/O) series for one functionally complete and scalable control system.
SKF offers new sensor for lubricant reservoirs
SKF has introduced the SKF Ultrasonic sensor to improve fill-level monitoring on SKF and Lincoln branded pumps and reservoirs with lubricant capacities in excess of five litres (1,321 US gal). Developed for oil and grease applications, the sensor provides both low-level and full-level messages for optimum operation.
Sustainable material handling with the driving force of Stiebel-Getriebebau
The electro-hydraulic Sennebogen 821 electric handler is versatile, energy-saving and environmentally friendly, and is said to be ideal for the sorting of demolition and construction materials. For such recycling tasks the machine stands securely on a stable crawler undercarriage. The handler’s transmission technology is provided by Stiebel-Getriebebau.
Piezo Thin Film sensor products available from Variohm EuroSensor
Variohm EuroSensor is now stocking a selection of Piezo Thin Film Sensor products from Measurement Specialties Inc., the global designer and manufacturer of sensor based components and systems. Piezo films are claimed to offer unique transducer capabilities, producing voltage in proportion to compressive or tensile mechanical stress and strain. They provide a compact and reliable solution as low-cost dynamic strain gauges, vibration sensors, accelerometers or dynamic switch elements. Piezo Film is also suitable for high fidelity transducers operating throughout the high audio (>1kHz) and ultrasonic (up to 100MHz) ranges.
A designer's primer on pneumatic sensors and switches
Leslie Neill, EMEA senior product marketing manager, Honeywell Sensing and Control, outlines what he believes design engineers need to know when specifying pressure switches and sensors in pneumatic actuation and control systems.
Single-/dual-axis inclinometer offers wide choice of options
Variohm EuroSensor’s new SST300 series single or dual axis inclinometers is claimed to offer extremely high precision performance with a combined absolute accuracy to +/- 0.01deg, and linearity of +/- 0.06 per cent F.S., over a +/- 5deg range. The robust and durable sensor is available in six measurement ranges up to +/- 60deg and offers optional temperature drift accuracy to +/- 0.05deg at ambient temperatures between -40 and +85degC. The SST300 series also boasts exceptional precision for other important measurement parameters including cross-axis sensitivity, offset, repeatability and hysteresis.
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