Overview

In all automated processes, sensors are necessary to provide the PLC with information. They supply the necessary signals for positions and limits, or serve as pulse pick-ups for counting tasks or for monitoring rotational speed. They offer ideal characteristics compared to mechanical switches: non-contact operation free from any wear and tear, high switching frequencies and accuracy. In addition, they are insensitive to vibration, dust and moisture. Inductive sensors detect all metals without contact
Full-metal sensors are used wherever an application presents particular challenges to the mechanical design. In the food industry, for example, not only rapid changes of temperature but also aggressive media used for daily cleaning stress the housing material. The same applies to applications in machine tools and plants where the sensors are permanently exposed to coolants and lubricants. In the steel industry or in automotive industry, however, weld spatter is not only a strain on the sensing face but also on the threaded sleeve. In this context the full-metal design with non-stick coating and the robust sensing face are the ideal solution to ensure a safe operation. Moreover, the robust stainless steel design offers optimum protection against abrasive parts in metal-cutting machining. Additionally, the compact and short design permits use even in the smallest of spaces.
ifm offers several sensor series specially designed for extreme requirements:
T series: These full-metal sensors are specially designed for use in hygienic and wet areas. They withstand frequent cleaning operations and are resistant to cleaning agents. Their wide temperature range of up to 100 °C and their insensitivity to fast temperature changes makes the sensors particularly suited for use in the food and beverage industry.
C series: Oils and coolants heavily impact the components installed in machine tools. The O-ring seal made of Viton combined with the corresponding ecolink connector ensures maximum ingress resistance.
C series with K = 0: These sensors only detect ferrous metals. Aluminum chips which build up on the active face during the process and lead to incorrect switching of conventional sensors are ignored due to this principle.
R series: The non-stick coating allows weld spatter to roll off the sensor. The high temperature range of up to 85 °C also enables handling of critical application.


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