Feature

Position transmitter offers simple stroke measuring and feedback up to 160mm

Festo has introduced a range of pneumatic cylinder position transmitters, the programmable SDAT-MHS, which provide accurate position feedback over stroke lengths of up to 160mm.

10/11/2013 11:42:16

There are five transmitters available with 50, 80, 100, 125 and 160mm sensing ranges. They offer good repeatability, measuring absolute values such as lengths, thicknesses and heights, and are therefore suitable for process monitoring and object detection, for example for monitoring components and displacements in applications such as assembly, riveting, ultrasonic welding, pressing or adhesive bonding.

Typically two cylinder switches are used in basic pneumatic ‘end-to-end ‘movement applications, but for multiple positions or intermediate positions multiple switches and PLC inputs are required to detect and interpret the position. Now, with the new SDAT-MHS, engineers and machine builders need only one transmitter, which enables them to save significant installation time.

SDAT-MHS can be set up with analogue current output 4-20mA, a switching output and an IO-Link combined in a single device. As a result, users can benefit from maximum flexibility in their choice of signal processing method with just one device.

A simple interface allows up to four channels to be programmed in IO-Link mode. This means that almost all applications can be controlled without having to program the analogue input of the PLC.

SDAT-MHS is IP65 rated, and feature three LEDs to help with set up and alert the user if they are within or outside the measuring range. The transmitters can be fitted easily to any cylinder with a T-slot and are available with up to 20m of cable.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.