Sensor manufacturer Micro-Epsilon has added a new, slimline version to its mainSENSOR series of magneto-inductive displacement measurement sensors.
The new MDS-45-M18-SA features an M18 stainless steel housing and provides a longer measuring range, from 20mm up to 55mm, depending on the size of the magnet. This new design also allows increased frontal pressures of up to 400 bar. An additional groove around the housing enables the measuring system to be sealed with an O-ring, protecting the sensor from oil, seawater and other aggressive substances. Typical applications for the MDS-45-M18-SA include hydraulic valves, attenuators and subsea hydraulics.
The mainSENSOR range operates on the magneto-inductive measuring principle. The sensor coil is supplied with alternating current, resulting in a primary magnetic field. This magnetic field induces eddy currents in the electrically conductive material arranged opposite the coil. In the field of the eddy current sensor is a special film which attenuates the eddy current sensor depending on the strength of the magnetic field. Using this method, a linear relationship between the distance to the magnet and the output signal can be established. As printed coils can be used inside the sensor, manufacturing does not rely on any semiconductor processes.
Although the mainSENSOR uses a permanent magnet as the target, unlike Hall Effect sensors, it does not suffer from relatively low sensor accuracy or high temperature drift. mainSENSORs use Micro-Epsilon’s measuring method, which is based on a linear relationship between the position of the permanent magnet and the output signal.
The MDS-45-M30-SA has a 55mm measuring range and an M30 cylindrical, barrel type stainless steel housing. The sensor weighs 15g and can operate in temperatures up to 80°C. The signal output provides 4-20mA or 2-10V DC.
The alternative to this is the OEM version, the MDS-45-K-SA, a miniature flat rectangular PCB version of the sensor with a plastic housing, countersunk M4 screw connection and a 55mm measuring range. Signal output is 4-20mA or 2-10V DC.
Micro-Epsilon
T: 0151 355 6070
