Inductive sensors from ifm

Inductive sensors from ifm for standard applications

At Automation24 we offer inductive sensors from ifm that can be used for a variety of standard applications thanks to temperature ranges as wide as -40-85 °C, high protection ratings of IP65 to IP69K and increased sensing ranges.

Thanks to vibration and shock resistance, inductive sensors from ifm are extremely durable. They are also insensitive to mechanically increasing tolerances and therefore long-lasting.

The universally applicable sensors are ideal for industrial applications without any special requirements. Depending on the location of installation, different lengths are available.

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Kplus sensors from ifm – Correction factor 1 on all metals

If you require the same sensing range for all metals, the inductive Kplus sensors from ifm are the right choice for you! For all material types, the correction factor remains at K=1.

The space-saving compact design allows for installation in tight spaces. These durable sensors are also equipped with electromagnetic field immune technology to prevent incorrect switching. High temperature ranges of up to -40-85 ° C allow for universal use. With protection ratings as high as IP68/IP69K, the inductive sensors from ifm are equipped for continuous contact with coolants and oils.

Thanks to their specialized properties, the Kplus series inductive sensors from ifm are ideal for use in factory automation and the automotive industry.

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Robust ifm all-metal sensors for harsh applications

If you need reliable inductive sensors for demanding industrial environments, then the all-metal sensors from ifm are the right choice for your application.

The shock and vibration-resistant sensors always detect end positions safely and can withstand temperatures of up to 100 °C. Furthermore, the inductive sensors from ifm have a robust and impact-resistant housing made entirely of stainless steel. With the high protection rating up to IP69K they can withstand various media such as coolants, lubricants and aggressive cleaning agents. For even greater sealing protection, the sensors should be used with the appropriate ecoLink connectors found in the connection technology category.

The threaded sensors are available in a short, compact design, making mounting in confined conditions possible.

Thanks to their durability, the all-metal sensors are ideal for the food industry, machine tool and plant construction, machining technology and for use in mobile machines.

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Inductive sensors from ifm in special sizes

Special industrial applications require specific designs. ifm meets these requirements with its inductive sensors in miniature as well as large and rectangular designs which can be flexibly connected via quick disconnect, terminal chamber or pre-wired versions.

The sensing range will increase with the size of the design. For example, the large designs with larger sensing ranges are suitable for the reliable detection of hot metals in the steel industry. The cylindrical miniature designs are used in applications where very precise object detection is important and the mechanical tolerances are more demanding.

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Small or large ifm sensors: the right design for every application

Shock and vibration resistant inductive sensors for reliable end position detection in every situation

ifm all-metal sensors always perform well even when in contact with coolants

Kplus sensors are resistant to cooling lubricants

Kplus sensors monitoring metal levers for holding down workpieces

Design and function of inductive sensors

Inductive sensors are also called proximity switches and are well known among the "metal detectors" in industrial sectors. This is due to the fact that they provide the safe as well as non-contact detection of metal objects.

How exactly does this happen? Behind the sensor head or the active surface is a ferrite core with coil. An electromagnetic alternating field is generated by means of a vibrator or oscillator, which discharges from the active surface. When an electrically conductive metallic object approaches the sensor head, the electromagnetic field, or the oscillator energy, is removed. The oscillator is damped, so to speak. Depending on the object distance, the change in the oscillation amplitudes or the degree of damping leads to the sensor switching. The distance to the object which triggers a circuit is also referred to as the sensing range [Sn] and is an important parameter of inductive sensors. Depending on the material of the object to be damped, a correction factor K must always be taken into account at the sensing range, which again reduces the actual distance.

Inductive sensors are available with flush and non-flush threads. The coil of flush sensors is again covered by an outer metal ring. As a result, it is more shielded from external influences, that can impair the electromagnetic field and promote faulty circuits. Due to the strong shielding, the inductive sensors with flush threads are suitable for installation in metal environments. They may be used flush with the metal surface. Non-flush sensors however, must not be installed flush. Only through an exposed active surface, the functionality of these sensors is obtained.

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