Festo introduces the SDBT-MSX – the first programmable proximity switch with automatic switching point setting. With an initial detection range of 20 mm, the SDBT-MSX is easy and reliable to install and commission, especially in applications where mounting is difficult. The switch is ideal for all standard applications, including factory automation and the electronics industry/small […]
Positioning sensors
Pneumatic cylinders that talk back
Air cylinders and actuators are renowned for simplicity, economy and long-time durability in countless motion-control applications. The devices typically provide basic linear motion and perform faultlessly and unnoticed for years. Increasingly, however, many newer equipment designs and automation systems demand a lot of data — even from components like air cylinders — to operate precisely […]
Novotechnik U.S. introduces new compact hydraulic/pneumatic position sensors
Novotechnik U.S. introduces the TM1 Series of magnetostrictive linear hydraulic and pneumatic position sensors with compact housing. A magnetic ring-shaped marker is affixed to your application’s moving cylinder and moves up and down the TM1 rod without contact. TM1 Series stroke lengths are from 50 to 2,000 mm in 25 mm steps. Operating pressure is […]
Pneumatic actuator control options
Pneumatic actuators are essential workhorses for machine and equipment motion. Here are some pointers about different styles for control and monitoring. Contributed by Pat Phillips, Product Manager, Fluid Power and Mechanical Product Division, AutomationDirect Pneumatic actuators are commonly used in countless types of equipment and machinery because they provide a simple, cost-effective and durable way […]
Balluff BMPs combine IO-Link, analog in single device
The latest additions to the Balluff BMP family of magnetic position sensors combine IO-Link, analog voltage and analog current in a singular device to overcome the limitations of discrete pneumatic cylinder switches. The newly released sensors provide continuous linear feedback — detecting and measuring the position of pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder rods and actuators through […]
How continuous position sensing will tie together the factory of the future
Contributed by Tim Faillo, Global Program Manager – Factory Automation, Parker Hannifin Modern factories have come to rely on industrial networks to make their sensors and actuators “smarter.” The use of smart sensors, such as Continuous Position Sensors (CPSs), offers a route toward realizing smart motion control in pneumatic systems. These intelligent devices offer more advanced, […]
Series 6PF cylinder from Camozzi delivers precise position control with integral linear potentiometer
Camozzi Pneumatics designed the series 6PF Positioning Feedback Cylinder to increase both precision and control in its pneumatic actuators. In compliance with ISO 15552 standards, the series 6PF is equipped with a potentiometric transducer of a linear position integrated inside the rod. This type of cylinder, when used with the LRXA4 proportional servo valve, makes […]
Digital positioners for fluid-power actuators
Pneumatic and hydraulic actuators routinely operate damper drives, flow valves, vacuum controls and other devices in countless process applications. However, there can be a sizeable performance gap between conventional open-loop positioners and closed-loop digital positioners used in such tasks. The problem, explained Ed Steutermann, president of KyTronics, Prospect, Ky., is that open-loop controllers apply a […]
LVIT inductive linear sensor for cylinder position feedback requires no magnet
Alliance Sensors Group is pleased to announce the MR Series of Linear Position Sensors for use in measuring the ram position of hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders. The MR Series is designed to be a drop-in form, fit, and function replacement for magnetostrictive sensors but with much more robust construction and a lower cost of ownership, […]
The new Festo semi-rotary drive is designed for fast installation, long life
Festo introduces a new pneumatic semi-rotary vane drive and matched contactless position sensor that transforms a relatively simple and low cost drive into a solution that lowers engineering and inventory overhead, is fast and easy to install, and delivers long service life due to its sealed housing. Standard swivel angles for the DRVS semi-rotary drive […]
