Inductive Linear Position Sensor Handles Off-Road Challenges

The LR-27 series of linear variable inductive transducers from the Alliance Sensor Group, Moorestown, N.J., was designed to be rugged enough for use in off-road vehicles, snow plows, and salt trucks, as well as other applications that expose them to harsh environments. This also makes the position sensors ideal for factory automation, material handling, and packaging equipment. The sensors are available in five sizes and can measure distances ranging from 2 to 8 in., and each is accurate to 0.15% of its full scale output. They operate in temperatures ranging from -4 to 185°F, and an extended-range version handles temperatures from -40 to 221°F. The anodized aluminum housing and the optional, more durable, steel version are sealed to IP 67 levels. The sensors’ contactless operation prevents wear from dithering or cycling. The sensors can also withstand 1,000 g of shock for 11 msec and 4.2 g of vibrations in the 2 to 2,000 Hz range. The sensor operates on a variety of DC voltages and offers users a choice from four analog outputs. They also include the manufacturer’s SenSet field-calibration feature.