With the assistance of an Inductive proximity sensor, a metallic object is detected that is available on the active side. The sensor operates on the principle of inductance. In this, with the help of fluctuating current, EMF is induced on the target object.
Thus, proximity sensors help to detect various ferrous targets which include mild steel. It has four major components which include oscillator, coils, Schmitt Trigger, and output amplifier. It has two main versions i.e. Unshielded and Shielded.
- Unshielded Inductive Proximity Sensor
The electromagnetic field that is generated by the coil is perhaps unrestricted and thus you get great sensing and wider distances.
- Shielded Inductive Proximity Sensor
The electromagnetic field that is generated is present on the front where the sensor coil sides are covered up.
Thus, it is recommended that you purchase a sensor from a good Inductive Proximity Sensor manufacturer in India.
Inductive Proximity Sensor – What is the working Principle?
The oscillator makes use of an oscillating and symmetrical magnetic field that radiates from the coil array and ferrite core at the sensing fence. So, when the ferrous target enters into the magnetic field, then independent and small electrical currents are induced into the surface of the metal.
Further, inductive proximity sensor tends to have a frequency range of about 10 to 20 Hz in AC as well as 500 Hz to 5 kHz in DC. Also, due to the limitations in the magnetic fields, it tends to have a narrow sensing range which on average is about 60 mm.
Thus, there are significant load on the sensor, and thus amplitude of the electromagnetic field is significantly decreased. Likewise, if the metal object tends to move near the proximity sensor, then the eddy current would increase accordingly. So, the oscillator load would very well increase while reducing the amplitude of the field.
Inductive Proximity Sensors – What are the advantages?
- It offers contactless detection
- It is resistant to several conditions which include dirt and dust
- Inductive Proximity Sensors are versatile and capable of metal sensing
- It tends to have a high rate of switching
- Moving parts are not available which means you tend to have a long service life
Inductive Proximity Sensors – What are the disadvantages?
- The detection range is not available to a large extent and the range which is maximum allowed is 60mm.
- Only Metal Objects can be detected
- Various external conditions such as cutting fluids, extreme temperatures, and chemicals through which sensor performance can be affected.
Inductive Proximity Sensors – What are the applications?
- Assembly lines, Machine tools, and automotive industry
- Moving parts that are of high-speed
- Metal parts detection in a harsh environment
What is the role of Inductive Proximity Sensors in Industrial automation?
The role of Inductive Proximity Sensors in Industrial automation is perhaps to check out the metal components. For instance, an inductive proximity sensor is used to check that the bottle has been capped properly.
Another important use of the inductive proximity sensor is detecting the right position of the end stop or actuator.
So, we can say that an inductive proximity sensor is used to detect the position and presence of the item. Moreover, the sensor is used such that the products can be counted. Thus, it can have a great impact on efficiency and productivity. Lastly, it also boosts the production process safety.