Sensors & Transducers


Inductive ring sensors monitor material flow in feeding technology

October 2026 Sensors & Transducers

Inductive ring sensors are used in feeding technology to detect metallic parts, such as screws or nuts, as they are transported through tubes. Objects are identified at speeds of up to 35 m/s regardless of their size, enabling precise counting and efficient flow control. Blockages, standstills or incorrect conveyance, such as no part or several parts at once, can be reliably detected.


The ring sensors from ifm offer reliable detection of even the smallest metallic objects, a very short response time and a choice of static or dynamic operating principle. Sensitivity, pulse stretching and output function can be adjusted, and an internal piece counter can be queried via IO-Link.

Static and dynamic applications

Ring sensors operate either statically or dynamically. Static sensors detect permanently present metal parts, for example, level monitoring. Dynamic sensors react only to passing parts and are suited to counting tasks or flow control. Both versions ensure a trouble-free production process in assembly systems.

IO-Link functions

The sensitivity can be adjusted using a potentiometer. Extended parameters such as pulse stretching, electrical design (PNP/NPN) and output function (NO/NC) can be configured via IO-Link. The sensor also offers IO-Link specific features, such as piece counting and diagnostic functions, providing greater flexibility for integration into connected production environments.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Hygienic and accurate flow measurement
ifm - South Africa Flow Measurement & Control
ifm’s ultrasonic sensor detects flows of conductive and non-conductive media with high precision.

Read more...
Reliable 1D and 2D code reading made simple
SICK Automation Southern Africa Sensors & Transducers
SICK’s new sensingCam SEC200 image-based code reader brings supermarket-checkout simplicity to logistics and industrial identification, reading 1D and 2D codes reliably with quick browser-based setup, rugged IP65 construction and CRA-compliant cybersecurity.

Read more...
Market opportunity for sensors in humanoid robots
Sensors & Transducers
A new IDTechEx report forecasts the market for sensors in humanoid robots will exceed $6,59 billion by 2037, driven by perception sensors, force/torque sensors, encoders and inertial measurement units across a growing range of commercial robot platforms.

Read more...
The wireless route to safer, more efficient mining operations
Emerson Automation Solutions Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Modern wireless level measurement technologies are helping mining operations improve process control, increase safety and reduce installation costs. Emerson’s Rosemount 3408 wireless non-contacting radar level transmitter uses 80 GHz frequency-modulated continuous wave radar with HART communication to reach remote assets where cabling is impractical.

Read more...
Pressure sensor for robust measurement and clear communication
ifm - South Africa Pressure Measurement & Control
ifm’s G1/2 PF pressure sensor monitors highly viscous or abrasive media directly on the system, with a robust ceramic measuring cell, a rotatable display and a flush design that prevents clogging.

Read more...
Vibration sensor with CANopen interface for mobile machines
ifm - South Africa Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
ifm’s 3-axis VMB301 condition monitoring sensor integrates into the vehicle network via CANopen, delivering real-time bearing, vibration and temperature data to help mobile machines avoid costly damage and downtime.

Read more...
Telco sensors for harsh environments
Sensors & Transducers
Telco sensors are designed to operate where moisture, particulate contamination and surface fouling would disable conventional sensors, with a range including an adjustable five-metre infrared proximity sensor for harsh industrial environments.

Read more...
The data-driven path to sustainable manufacturing
ifm - South Africa Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Smart automation is closing the gap between operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, and the data to do it is already inside the plant. With ifm’s sensing and digitalisation technologies, manufacturers can turn machine intelligence into measurable sustainability gains.

Read more...
Expanding visibility in mining operations
Emerson Automation Solutions Editor's Choice Sensors & Transducers
Advances in wireless communications, condition monitoring and sensing technologies are helping mining operators extend measurement into previously under-monitored areas, improving equipment reliability, process performance and water stewardship.

Read more...
Fiber-optic amplifiers for precise object detection
ifm - South Africa Sensors & Transducers
The OCF fibre-optic amplifier detects even the smallest or most transparent objects in confined spaces, making proven fibre-optic technology easier and more user-friendly than before.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved