Rotary sensor provides high-resolution position feedback for industrial and scientific applications

Positek Limited has expanded its range of rotary sensors with a new cost-competitive model aimed at demanding industrial and scientific applications. Based on the UK designer and manufacturer’s patented PIPS technology, the P530 offers an effectively infinite resolution and linearity of ±0.25 % FSO. Application flexibility is ensured with a wide choice of industry-standard outputs calibrated to a customer-specified angle from ±50° to ±160° in increments of 1 degree. Stake’s non-contacting technology, a major advance in displacement sensor design, is based on simple inductive coils and micro-electronic circuitry that provides an exceptionally long MTBF life of up to 350,000 hrs at 40°C as well as excellent durability against shock, vibration, and temperature extremes.

The new P530 rotary sensor’s 35 mm diameter housing is IP67 sealed and together with its flange mounting and shaft drive is finished in 316 stainless-steel. A machined registration mark identifies the mid-point of rotary travel. The comprehensive selection of supply and instrument-level signal outputs extends to input voltages of ±5V DC or ±24V DC with ratiometric and buffered voltage outputs as well as 4-20 mA current outputs. EMC performance conforms to EN 61000-6-2 and 6-3. A choice of M12 connector or cable gland connection is available with cable length specified by the customer. 

Positek’s PIPS technology (Positek Inductive Position Sensor) scores well when compared to other LVDT technologies. Its simpler coil design is more compact and utilises inexpensive magnetic materials – which makes for easier installation, competitive costs and lowered environmental susceptibility. The well-proven ASIC technology simply decodes the absolute position of embedded inductive coils providing a proportional, high-bandwidth and readily useable high-resolution analogue output that does not require further signal conditioning. In comparison to potentiometer-based displacement sensors, the non-contacting PIPS technology ensures an extremely long working life.