Sensors & Transducers


Laser beam sensors for harsh environments

August 2003 Sensors & Transducers Surveillance Security Services & Risk Management

Banner Engineering Corp is offering ruggedised PicoDot sensors - Class 2 laser sensors with environmentally sealed housings that enable them to deliver laser power and precision to applications in harsh environments. Available in convergent beam and retroreflective mode models, the sensors make appropriate solutions for a variety of applications. They are suitable for presence sensing of tiny parts at close ranges and small parts at medium ranges, as well as precise long-range and high-speed sensing.

The sensors provide all of the standard PicoDot features and functionality in an environmentally sealed housing that protects the electronics from dust/dirt, gases, rain, snow, sleet, hosedown, heavy splash, and occasional submersion. Both convergent and retroreflective models utilise a 650 nm visible red sensing beam, and both provide a 200 ms response time with 50 ms repeatability.

Convergent beam models, available in 50 mm, 100 mm and 200 mm focal lengths, create a precise high-energy sensing spot measuring 0,25 mm at the focus point. Retroreflective models feature a precise narrow sensing beam that provides accurate long-range sensing at ranges from 0,2 m to 10,6 m.

These tough Class 2 laser sensors are also compact and self-contained. Measuring 42,7 mm high, by 15,2 mm wide, by 49,1 mm deep, they fit and function in smaller spaces than many competitive sensors. They also save on installation and maintenance expenses, compared with opposed mode sensors, because only one sensor has to be wired.

The sensors include green and yellow LED indicators that provide a constant display of operating status. The 10 to 30 V d.c. sensors feature integral circuitry that protects against reverse polarity, overvoltage and transient voltages. The output configuration includes an SPDT (complementary) solid-state switch with a choice of NPN (sinking) or PNP (sourcing) outputs, each capable of switching up to a 150 mA load, and a choice of light operate (N.O.) or dark operate (N.C.).

The sensor housing is constructed of Cycolac KJB heat-resistant ABS (rated UL94-VO) and includes an acrylic lens. Rated IEC IP67 and NEMA 6, the sensors were designed to withstand harsh environments. An operating temperature range, from -10 to +45°C, allows the sensors to perform reliably under most industrial conditions. They are available with integral 2 m, or 9 m unterminated cable, or with a 5-pin Euro-style 150 mm pigtail quick-disconnect fitting.

For more information contact, Rodney Topham, RET Automation Controls, 011 453 2468, [email protected], www.retauto.co.za



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