Sensors & Transducers


Festo makes sense of it all

September 2008 Sensors & Transducers

The Festo sensor range offers many solutions for a variety of applications with maximum process competence, optimal performance and reliability, ensuring smooth and efficient production.

In-house sensor production ensures a broad sensor spectrum and the company portfolio includes specialisation in sensor networking
In-house sensor production ensures a broad sensor spectrum and the company portfolio includes specialisation in sensor networking

There are many Festo sensors that represent the ultimate in technology and are appropriate for various solutions. These include one of the smallest inductive sensors in the world, right through to factor one technology which means that regardless of the type of steel being sensed the sensor will always sense the rated sensing distance, from colour sensors to round-the-clock monitoring.

The SMT/SME-8M proximity sensor is compatible with many different cylinders and fits flush with a lock nut centrally positioned on the sensor for optimal installation. All reed switch versions are equipped with internal protective circuits to extend service life. With maximum application versatility it is freely configurable to cable length, cable quality and termination technology.

In line with this, the SDE3 and SDE5 pressure and vacuum sensors expands the switch range with an intermediate option between the highly functional SDE1 sensor and the price-optimised SDE switch. It offers relative and differential sensing, with a high degree of integration – that is two independent pressure switches and an LCD panel in a single device. This sensor is fast and convenient, easy to read, cost-effective, highly reliable and tamper proof. It also saves space and has alphanumerical pressure display for dynamic processes via bar charts. The coded lock prevents manipulation and permits reading of the settings.

Included in the range is the proximity sensor and position transmitter, which are optimally harmonised with pneumatic drives. Entirely new variants and new functionalities of this sensor were developed on the basis of this platform.

Working side by side with this sensor is the inductive proximity switches and sensors, which forms part of the SIE series. Having an eye for all metals with functions ranging from sensing to distance measurement of metallic objects, this is a cost efficient product suitable for various applications. Furthermore, it has greater switching distance compared to standard sensors, is 250% faster than conventional proximity sensors and can be Teflon coated for use in a welding environment.

Still keeping with the range, is the SIEA sensor, which is ideal for measuring, monitoring and checking functions at 20 mm distance. This product is equipped with an analogue signal, is proportional to distance, offers a voltage and current output and is sturdy due to the all-round enclosed design of the stainless steel housing.

Colour detection and laser distance sensing is the SOE optical sensor range’s specialty. With the ability to sense objects in any format, it is suitable for the replacement of larger devices where space is at a premium. This sensor is scratch resistant to environmental impact and requires no accessories as it has an integrated switch output and direct PLC connection.

Simple diagnosis and condition monitoring processes can be realised by means of monitoring flow rates. Flow sensors measure changing flow values, which are often an indication of problems ahead, thus providing valuable preventative maintenance measures. Aptly suited for applications in the electronics, light assembly and optical industries, the SFE3 flow sensor features an attractive display and control concept and offers flow monitoring to be used in leakage detection and leak tightness testing of end products.

To make work lighter, the new SVE4 signal converter has adjustable switch outputs, which eliminate the need for costly analogue input. In addition, the NEBU modular cable system offer unlimited combination options including connection sockets, plug connectors, different cable lengths and qualities and is cost effective.

For more information contact Joanne Dix, Festo, +27 (0)11 971 5560, [email protected], www.festo.com



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