Sensors/Test & Measurement

April 2010

MEMS Inclinometer
ASM Sensors (Elmhurst, IL) has introduced the PTAM20 Series POSITILT® MEMS inclinometer available in single- and dual-axis versions.

It is available in a compact, flat housing and features a measurement range for the singleaxis version of ±15° to ±180° in increments of 15°.

For the dual-axis version, measurement range is available from ±15° to ±60° in increments of 15°.

The device measures 1⁄4" high and less than 2" in diameter, and features an enclosure rated IP60. Analog output types of 0.5-4.5V, 0.5-10V, and 4-20 mA are available.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/28052-306

October 2009

Rotary Position Sensor
The RS 1500-200 rotary position sensor from Macro Sensors, Pennsauken, NJ, measures the angular displacement of rotating elements such as quarter-turn ball and butterfly valves, air flow dampers, and diverter gates used in packaging and postal sorting machine.

It is available with a 24Vdc input and 0 to 10Vdc output (RSE 1500-120), or with a two-wire, 4 to 20mA loop-powered transmitter I/0 (RSI 1500-120). The sensor utilizes contactless inductive technology to measure shaft angle position over a 120° nominal range, with linear error of less than 0.10% of full range output. It operates at temperatures of 0 to 185°F and meets IEC IP-66 standards. Other features include a servomount groove and pilot in the sensor body, splash-proof shaft seals, and mounting flanges.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22928-302

Cylinder Position Sensor
A magnetically actuated linear displacement sensor from Turck, Minneapolis, MN, the Q25L, detects piston position on pneumatic cylinders. Suited for applications requiring precise signal transmission over long measuring distances, it is available with measuring ranges of 100, 125, 160, and 200mm.

By utilizing an external magnet as a position indicator, the sensor can be used in additional applications such as moving platforms, point line measurement, or other specially designed equipment where a cylinder is not present. Based on a Hall element, the sensor works with a repeatable accuracy of less than 0.1% of the measuring range and a linear deviation of less than 1% full scale. The sensor’s small blind zone — 2.5 mm on each end — makes it easy to use in space-restricted areas.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22928-306

August 2009

Fluid Sensor
Optek Technology, Carrollton, TX, has expanded its family of fluid sensors to include automatic calibration and a preset trip level feature.

Designated the OCB350 Series, the fluid sensor requires only an optical device and power supply for operation. It uses an LED/phototransistor to sense the change in refractive properties between full and empty tubing as it passes through the sensor housing, creating multiple output states.

The sensor’s LED and phototransistor are packaged in an opaque plastic housing that enhances ambient light rejection. The housing accommodates clear tubing with ODs of 0.0625, 0.125, or 0.1875in. The sensor is designed to maintain the calibrated setting even if power is lost. The LED has a forward current of 50mA with a peak current of 1.0A. The output phototransistor features a maximum collector-to-emitter voltage of 24 or 30 V, with collector DC current of 50mA and power dissipation of 100 mW.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22922-304

June 2009

Linear Displacement Sensor
The KD-2306 non-contact linear displacement sensor from Kaman, Middletown, CT uses balanced bridge eddy current technology to sense both ferrous and non-ferrous metal targets.

The RoHS-compliant, CE-marked sensing system includes the electronics, sensor, and interconnecting cable. Standard sensing ranges are from 0.02 to 2.4in., with 0.01%FS resolution or better, and non-linearity as little as 0.25%FS. Terminal I/O connections are provided to connect 15-30VDC input power, optional 0-5VDC, 0-10VDC, ±5VDC, 4-20 mA output, and synchronization cables for multiple channel operation.

Over 30 sensor models are available, including single and dual coil, shielded and unshielded designs. Options include extended length sensor cables, non-standard range/target calibration, temperature compensated calibration, and in-line cable splice.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/22918-300

February 2009

Accelerometer
The KXTE9 accelerometer from Kionix (Ithaca, NY) has embedded algorithms for orientation and activity monitoring. The algorithms simplify the adoption of motionbased functionality in consumer electronics, while reducing operating power consumption.

The sensor’s orientation-detection feature reports changes in landscape, portrait, faceup, and face-down conditions. The embedded algorithm eliminates the need for continuous data collection and complex microprocessor calculations. It enables the implementation of screen rotation. An activity-monitoring function reports changes in a device’s motion state, active or inactive. By providing this information to a device, the accelerometer enables power management.

For more info, contact http://info.hotims.com/22908-300

Position Sensor
The TRACKER TRK-1TO2 position sensor from New Scale Technologies (Victor, NY) measures 8.5 × 11.5 × 1.61 mm and provides 2-micrometer resolution.

It can be used as a linear encoder or off-axis rotary encoder and unlike optical encoders, does not require a light source and is suited for optical imaging. Specifications include a repeatability of 2 micrometers, a supply voltage of 3 to 6 Vdc, and current of 21 mA. The sensor provides a direct digital output using a standard I2C protocol. It is insensitive to shock, vibration, and particulates.

For more info, contact http://info.hotims.com/22908-307

Oxygen Flow Meter
The Oxyview™ polycarbonate oxygen flow meter from Qosina provides in-line monitoring of oxygen levels from 1 to 6 liters/minute. The flow meter can connect close to the patient in any orientation, providing an advantage over gravity-fed components mounted at the oxygen source.

The meter is available with a range of tubing, cannula, oxygen bushings, connectors, clamps and face masks and other components.

For more info, contact http://info.hotims.com/22908-316

Bearing Monitoring Module
The 750-645 2-channel vibration and roller bearing monitoring module from WAGO Corp. (Germantown, WI) tracks machine vibration conditions. Based on ISO’s 10816-3 mechanical vibration standard, it monitors and analyzes vibration severity and shock pulse feedback using WAGO’s 750-925 Tandem-Piezo(R) acceleration sensor.

Mechanical shock pulse process data is transmitted to superior control systems via field bus. The resulting analysis provides the basis for an anticipatory maintenance schedule. This ensures component replacement only when necessary, avoiding unforeseen downtime. In the event of excessive vibration, the module can enact a shutdown, preventing further damage.

The module eliminates time-consuming collection of machine health data by handheld devices. Programming is also efficient. It allows configuration of good, warning, and fault limits via WAGO-I/O-CHECK software. The 750-645 module and 750-925 sensor can be combined with any of the 300+ digital, analog and specialty modules in the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM to create comprehensive monitoring systems.

For more info, contact http://info.hotims.com/22908-320.

October 2008

Linear Position Sensor
The A40-HR 20P linear position and velocity sensor from Visi-Trak (Charlottesville, VA) provides control resolution exceeding 0.001 in. at 200 inches per second. The auto-calibrating sensor can sense any stroke length, suiting it for hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders or any linear actuator requiring high speed and precision.

The sensor comprises a transducer paired with an encoded rod, housed in a cylindrical enclosure measuring 0.656 in. diameter × 1.75 in. long. An antialiasing encoder interface allows precise sampling at high speeds without contact between the rod and the transducer.

For free info visit http://info.hotims.com/15140-303

August 2008

Infrared camera
FLIR Systems Inc. (Boston, MA) has introduced the ThermoVision A320G infrared camera for machine vision applications. The A320G is reportedly the only infrared camera designed to be compatible with GigE Vision and supports the GenICam protocol for easy integration with digital cameras. With its universal plug and play (uPnP) and GigE Vision Control protocols, the A320G allows for easy system integration.

The camera’s GenICam protocol provides a generic programming interface for various cameras, regardless of interface technology, and is compatible with thirdparty software including IMAQ Vision and Common Vision Blox. Other features include image flow control that allows an external signal to control the image streaming, digital I/O for triggering and synchronization with external equipment, infrared monitoring software to run up to 9 cameras simultaneously, a built-in 25 degree lens with both motorized and auto focus, and high sensitivity (<70mK) for sharp images and excellent image quality (320×240 pixels).

For free info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15136-305

June 2008

Pressure Sensor
The Model GT100 from Stellar Technology (Amherst, NY) is a heavy-duty pressure transducer for severe applications like rocket engine testing that can ruin a typical pressure sensor. It features a cleanable pressure cavity and a field-replaceable, stainless steel diaphragm.

The GT100 has a standard output of 3 mV/V and delivers linearity and hysteresis of 0.25% over pressures of 150 to 20,000 psig. Exceptional thermal isolation ensures reliable performance over an operating temperature of -100°F to +300°F. This stainless steel sensor has built-in overpressure protection and low sensitivity to shock, vibration, and thermal influence. Wiring is through a heavy-duty, six-pin stainless steel connector, and four pressure fittings are available.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15132-302

Torque Sensor
A rotating torque sensor from Sensor Development (Lake Orion, MI) feature a bearing system that allows the structure to be exposed to very high radial loads without damage. Most standard torque sensors require their housings to float to minimize any extraneous loading other than the torque applied to the shaft.

The sensor handles extraneous loads up to 9000 lbs/40 kN. It allows the operator to eliminate pillow block bearings and reduce overall torsion inertia, thereby increasing the overall stiffness of the driveline. The sensor is suited for measuring components subjected to loads such as steering columns, pulleys, and universal joints. All sensors include an ISO-17025 accredited calibration certificate.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15132-306

Radio Touch Probe
The RMP600 touch probe from Renishaw (Hoffman Estates, IL) combines high-accuracy strain-gage sensing and frequency-hopping spread-spectrum (FHSS) radio transmission. The probe allows high part checking precision on five-axis machining, contours, deep cavities, and undercuts, where obstacles or part features can block transmission by optical line-of-sight probes.

The versatile probe enables rapid, automated part set-up and changeover, in-process control of critical dimensions, and even final inspection on certain parts to speed throughput. It combines a patented sensing mechanism and advanced electronics to allow sub-micron 3D probe performance on contoured surfaces. The probe delivers repeatability of 0.25 μm (0.000010 in.) with a 50-mm long stylus, 0.35 μm with a 100-mm stylus, and is recommended for styli up to 200 mm. By using strain gages, the probe can trigger at much lower and highly consistent contact forces, resulting in less bending of the stylus, negligible pre-travel and superior metrology performance.

Compatible with a wide range of machine controllers, the RMP600 can be used with high-speed, single-touch or double-touch probing routines. The RMP600 uses the company’s frequency-hopping spread-spectrum (FHSS) transmission, which does not use a dedicated radio channel. Instead, the probe and receiver ‘hop’ together through a sequence of channels. FHSS enables multiple machining centers with the probe system to coexist with confidence in “noisy” industrial environments, particularly as wireless Wi-Fi proliferates on plant floors.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15132-313

April 2008

Load Cells
(Amherst, NY) includes 20 models covering ranges from 5 lb to 1,000,000 lb. These cells are available in pancake, rod end, miniature, through-hole, load pin, beam, and canister designs. The cells incorporate welded stainless steel or highstrength alloy construction. All have strain gage technology and resist shock and vibration. The cells are available with approvals for hazardous environments, including intrinsically safe and explosion-proof, including ATEX, CSA, CE, DNV, EX, and ABS. They are available as standard products or engineered to customer specs.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-302

Linear Actuated Sensor
BI Technologies’ (Fullerton, CA) 400 Series linear actuated sensor is offered with and without end bearings to suit the different grades of various applications. Redundant output is available, and stroke size ranges from 0.5 to 6.0 in.

The sensor has been specified for use by a business jet manufacturer and has received FAA approval. It is available with various options in order to meet requirements for a range of sensing applications.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-310

Accelerometer
Dytran Instruments’ 3234A series IEPE accelerometer is available in three versions with varying sensitivities and range. Model 3234A1 is rated 10mV/g, Model 3234A2 is 100mV/g, and Model 3234A3 is 500mV/g. Suited for modal analysis, NVH, squeak & rattle and general purpose vibration applications, the accelerometer has ultra-low noise electronics, wide bandwidth and all titanium construction. It is also ground isolated.

This accelerometer features a 10-32 mounting hole and its cubic design allows for adhesive mounting on multiple mounting faces. The accelerometer features low impedance voltage mode (IEPE) operation. The self-generating seismic element, utilizing piezoceramic crystals in planar shear mode, converts acceleration to an analogous electrostatic charge mode signal. This very high impedance signal is fed to the input of a miniature on-board IC JFET charge amplifier that drops the output impedance level ten orders of magnitude, allowing this instrument to drive long cables without harming sensitivity and frequency response.

For Free Info Visit http://info.hotims.com/15128-325

February 2006

Vibration Analyzer
Datastick Systems (Campbell, CA) offers the VSA-1212 vibration spectrum analyzer, a PDA-based vibration analyzer that uses off-the-shelf ICP®-type piezoelectric accelerometers for machine condition monitoring and maintenance. The system includes the Datastick® analyzer module that attaches to PDAs running Palm OS, the Datastick Spectrum handheld software that collects and displays vibration measurements, and Datastick Reporting System™ software that receives the data from the handheld into a Microsoft® Excel® workbook on the PC.

Measurement data is collected, viewed, analyzed, and stored on the PDA and then exported to a PC for further analysis and publishing to the Web. Cursor-position readouts on the main display show specific values when the user touches a point with the stylus. Up to 22 MB of recorded waveform and spectrum data can be stored. Six selectable windowing options are available, as well as 12 selectable frequency bandwidth options. Industry-standard BNC connectors connect with industrial-grade accelerometers.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5655-337

December 2005

Motor and Drive Test Kit
Fluke Corp. (Everett, WA) offers the 1587/MDT Advanced Motor & Drive Troubleshooting Kit that provides technicians with the tools necessary to troubleshoot motor and variable-frequency-drive electrical problems. It combines in a rugged case a Fluke 1587 insulation multimeter, a Fluke i400 current clamp, and a Fluke 9040 rotary field indicator. The insulation multimeter provides insulation resistance testing to 2 GW, with five output voltages from 50 to 1000 V for use with motors, motor drives, cables, and switchgears. The current clamp measures current without breaking the circuit, and the rotary field indicator lets users check the rotation of three-phase motors.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-326

Linear Position Transducer
Balluff (Florence, KY) has introduced the Micropulse TA12, a non-contact linear position sensor with explosion-proof housing. The TA12 is designed for continuous feedback on hydraulically and pneumatically actuated valves for oil and gas refining, storage, transport, and handling. Control signal interface options include analog voltage and current, start/stop pulse digital, synchronous serial digital, digital quadrature, and digital field buses such as Profibus and CANbus.

The sensor incorporates its electronics and sensing hardware in a Rapid Replacement Module that allows field repairs by the user. On all analog voltage and current versions, the linear stroke range and the location of the zero and span points can be user-adjusted in the field using a two-button, removable programming tool.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-302

Torque Transducers
PCB Piezotronics, Force/Torque Division (Depew, NY), has released rotating torque transducers that utilize non-contact, rotary transformers for sending excitation voltage to, and receiving measurement signals from, the strain gage instrumented rotating sensor element. The rotary transformer design eliminates the need for replacing worn brushes. An optional pickup provides an output proportional to speed and an optional K type thermal couple to monitor internal bearing temperature.

The units are suitable for use in torque studies on cantilevered aerospace hydraulic motors and pumps, dynamometers for combustion engines, drive shafts, transmissions, fans, and electric motors. For

Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-306

Flow Monitor
weber Sensors (Woodstock, GA) has introduced flowGuard, a calorimetric relativereading flow monitor with a built-in learn function. When the flow is turned on, the monitor automatically scales itself to display it as 100% of full flow. The process set-point is then automatically set at 50%. No calibration or adjustment is necessary. Settings may be changed via pushbutton. The monitor has no moving parts, is made of stainless steel, and features 1P67 protection and epoxy encapsulated electronics to protect against shock and vibration.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-323

Triaxial Accelerometer
Dytran Instruments (Chatsworth, CA) offers the model 3023AH high-temperature triaxial accelerometer with integral electronics that operates over the temperature range of -60 to 325°F. It has a frequency range of 2 Hz to 10,000 Hz, with a sensitivity of 10 mV/g. The welded- hermetic sensor weighs 3 grams with a footprint of 0.36" × 0.36". The accelerometer is suitable for flight test applications, and for automotive NVH applications on engines and HASS/HAST chambers when higher than usual temperatures are encountered.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-307

Electric Motor Testing System
SAKOR Technologies (Okemos, MI) offers DynoLAB LT, a turnkey system for electric motor testing that provides test control and data acquisition capabilities for basic testing, as well as the benefits of an AC motoring dynamometer. The system has provisions for measuring speed and torque, and optional voltage and current supply to the motor under test. From the data, the system can calculate values such as input and output power and efficiency. The system software offers basic functionality required for most performance, durability, and quality control testing.

For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5294-318

June

Accelerometer
With non-linearity better than 0.05% and low vibration rectification, the LCA-100 30g Series accelerometer from Jewell Instruments (Manchester, NH) offers ±5.0 V full range output, 200-Hz bandwidth, and <1° transverse axis misalignment. Operating temperature range is -55° to 71°C. Survival temperature range is -65° to 105°C. The seal meets MIL-STD-202, Method 112 standards, and the unit withstands shock to 300G, 0.011 second, 1/2 sine. The accelerometer is suitable for industrial, commercial, and aerospace sensing applications.
For Free Info Visit http://info.ims.ca/5081-314