Motion Control & Drives


Position sensor detection for ­hydraulic cylinders

July 2018 Motion Control & Drives

Siko’s SGH wire-actuated encoders measure cylinder stroke as well as speed in hydraulic cylinders with impressive efficiency, flexibility and robustness.

The technology

SGH sensors use a wire draw mechanism that is integrated directly into the cylinder to measure the stroke. The wire is secured to the piston head. When the cylinder extends, the wire wound on a wire drum is pulled out. The resulting rotation of the drum is detected by the contactless sensor system and converted into a linear position. This means that precise and absolute position or speed tracking of the cylinder is possible at any time. The magnets used to measure the rotation are scanned by the contactless sensor system through the pressure resistant base plate of the SGH sensors. The electronic components are fully encapsulated and located on the non-pressurised side of the system. The entire measuring system is therefore incorporated into the cylinder and optimally protected against external environmental influences. The advantage is that in contrast to measuring systems mounted externally on the cylinder, the sensor system cannot be damaged, negatively affected or even destroyed by environmental conditions.

Developed for tough conditions in mobile hydraulic applications

The SGH sensors were designed and developed in line with the strict specifications of renowned hydraulic cylinder manufacturers. Market demands ensured that Siko met its requirements regarding robustness, durability and functionality. Siko worked closely with cylinder manufacturers to define and satisfy the specifications regarding service life, shock and vibration resistance, EMC and compatibility with various hydraulic media. All specifications were tested and confirmed in endurance tests at the facilities of cylinder manufacturers, or in external accredited laboratories.

Intelligent sensors for smart cylinders

The SGH technology transforms hydraulic and telescopic cylinders as well as piston accumulators into smart cylinders and hydraulic systems. A suitable sensor is available for all applications. With measuring lengths of up to 5000 mm, a wide selection of interfaces as well as high flexibility for integration of the sensors, the SGH family offers a wide range of possibilities. Redundant options and sensors for performance levels of up to PLd are available for safety critical applications.

Reliable position tracking

Smart sensors take mobile hydraulics to a new level of safety and efficiency. Functional safety is a term that is being widely discussed. Safety concepts for mobile machinery has been a topic of interest since the implementation of the new Machinery Directive EN 13849. Sensors in the Siko SGH range help implement intelligent safety concepts for mobile machinery and meet the requirements of the specific safety standards for different utility vehicles.

The safety versions of the SGH25 and SGH50 sensors meet the requirements for use in applications up to Performance Level d (PLd). Safe and redundant design in compliance with CAT3 as well as a safe mechanical design means Siko products are pre-destined for use in safety-critical applications, also under unusual conditions.

In addition, the sensors supply process data which not only serve to satisfy safety requirements, but also offer an added value for the machine. The process data can, therefore, provide insight into an impending seal maintenance interval. Flexible support tracking in crane and lifting applications extend the working ranges of the machine. Memory functions in industrial trucks save time and make work safer. All these are examples of how SGH sensors not only make machinery safer, but also more efficient.

Advantages of the SGH encoder include:

• Absolute detection of the cylinder position.

• Direct integration into the cylinder.

• Measuring range up to 5000 mm.

• Can be used in safety applications up to PLd.

• No drilling of the piston required.

• Can also be used in telescopic cylinders.

• Perfectly protected due to protection category IP69K.

• Durable and robust. – developed in line with mobile hydraulic requirements.

• High EMC.

For more information contact Instrotech, +27 (0)10 595 1831, [email protected], www.instrotech.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

New precision planetary gearboxes
Motion Control & Drives
Teknic offers precision planetary gearboxes with a wide selection of frame sizes, gear ratios, output flanges and body configurations to accommodate a range of motion control requirements.

Read more...
Septentrio starts mass production of mosaic-G5 positioning modules
Motion Control & Drives
Septentrio has started volume shipments of mosaic-G5 modules that enable reliable positioning without performance compromise for size and power-constrained industrial applications.

Read more...
SKF and Sieb & Meyer announce strategic partnership for magnetic bearings
SKF South Africa Motion Control & Drives
SKF has announced a strategic partnership with Sieb & Meyer, a renowned expert in variable frequency drives and control electronics.

Read more...
Advanced tensioning solutions for industrial applications
Motion Control & Drives
OST-Africa has developed an advanced range of tensioning elements, designed to meet the demands of mechanical power transmission

Read more...
Siemens sets new standards in drive technology
Motion Control & Drives
Siemens is setting new standards in industrial drive technology with the launch of its new high-performance drive system, Sinamics S220.

Read more...
Bearings International enters South Africa’s pump market
Bearings International Motion Control & Drives
Bearings International has entered into the local pumps market through an exclusive distribution agreement with leading Italian pump manufacturer, SAER.

Read more...
Next-generation multisensor sets new standards in condition monitoring
Motion Control & Drives
The next-generation Sitrans MS200 multisensor from Siemens enables improved predictive maintenance that makes industrial operations smarter, safer and more efficient.

Read more...
MEPS rules create opportunity but smart moves are critical
Motion Control & Drives
SEW-EURODRIVE says that South African regulations on premium efficiency IE3 motors open a door of opportunity for geared motor users, but forward planning and the considered advice of established and trusted experts is vital.

Read more...
Strain wave gearheads for precision and compact design
Motion Control & Drives
Strain wave gearheads from maxon are a specialised type of gearhead where precision and compact design are crucial.

Read more...
Open-source humanoid robot redefining human-machine interaction
Motion Control & Drives
Pollen Robotics is working on an ambitious mission: to imagine and advance useful robotics for humans. Their flagship creation, Reachy combines accessibility, innovation and open-source collaboration.

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