High accuracy position feedback for fluid power cylinders: Positek launch new in-cylinder mounted position sensor with integrated electronics

Positek’s LIPS, along with its equivalent sensor technologies for angle and tilt displacement (RIPS® and TIPS®) are characterised by excellent EMC, vibration, shock and environmental specifications in addition to contactless measurement and resulting long working life properties. This technology provides a compelling alternative to standard LVDT/RVDT and magneto-strictive sensors which have a worse stroke-to-length ratio, more bulky coils and higher shock susceptibility.

Consequently these sensor products are larger and, combined with the need for special magnetic materials and often separate signal conditioning electronics, are more difficult and costly to install. The P116 also boasts an excellent frequency response of 10 KHz for an improved sampling rate over less dynamic LVDTs. When compared to contacting type in-cylinder position sensors such as wear-prone potentiometer based devices, the non-contacting Positek technology offers an almost unlimited working life with equally straightforward interfacing requirements. As with almost all Positek manufactured sensor models, the P116 is particularly suitable for OEM users with competitive volume pricing and customisation options readily available.

The standard output for the P116 is 0.5…4.5V DC ratiometric from a 5V DC input, other output options include 0.5…4.5V, 0.5…9.5V and 4…20 mA – all from a +24V DC supply. With an independent linearity specification of 0.25% FSO at 20⁰C and a -40⁰C to +125⁰C operating temperature range for the standard output option, the P116’s precision and durability suit the most extreme mobile machinery applications in agriculture and transportation as well as plant and construction machinery, harsh-environment factory equipment and more.

The stainless steel body of the P116 and its integral fluoropolymer-sheathed probe assembly is IP67 rated (IP68 option also available by request). Thanks to an industry-leading stroke-to-length ratio, the overall probe length is just 28 mm longer than the required measurement length. These compact dimensions extend to the sensor’s body diameter of just 27 mm and length of 41.5 mm. The ancillary stainless steel target tube is 30 mm longer than the required measurement length and at just under 10 mm diameter requires minimal cylinder installation space.

The standard mechanical interface for the P116 is an 18.0 mm diameter threaded mount but flange-mounted alternatives are available to facilitate the cylinder design or to replace other manufacturers interfacing. Electrical screened cable in 50 cm lengths is specified by the customer and a wide choice of electrical connectors are available on request. Full specifications for the P116 are available on request from sales@positek.com or call +44 (0)1242 820027.

The P116 is part of a comprehensive range of linear, rotary and tilt sensors from the ISO9001:2015 designer and manufacturer which includes ATEX, IECEx and CSA certification across many product lines. Positek’s sensors are widely specified and well proven in challenging environment measurement tasks including intrinsically safe, hazardous area, automotive, aerospace and submersibles as well as general industrial and scientific research applications.