Magnetostrictive linear transducers available with long strokes
Balluff is introducing the latest Micropulse BTL7 linear transducers that offer even better technical properties and additional functions. For decades Balluff's rod-style transducers have proven their reliability in demanding applications. Designed for installation in hydraulic cylinders, the magnetostrictive operating principle enables installation in hermetically sealed enclosures; the position information is transmitted via magnetic fields through the housing wall to the interior of the sensor, the waveguide being enclosed in a stainless steel tube rated for pressures up to 600bar.New features of the BTL 7 include LEDs for indicating the operating status and providing visual diagnostic capability with no additional equipment. Among the technical improvements are new stroke lengths up to 7.6m; now one system can be used for all stroke lengths. In addition to the connector version, there is a cable type offering IP68 protection and improved sealing to create new application possibilities. A non-linearity of just 0.01 per cent (up to 5.5m of stroke) means more accurate closed-loop control, and the two-wire remote setup feature adds flexibility in operation.
The new BTL7 is available in a standard and high-end version. The standard version is 100 per cent downward-compatible with the previous BTL generations in installation and function. Users can switch to the new standard type with no design changes. If service should ever be necessary in existing applications, the older generation model can be simply replaced by the BTL7 to improve performance.
Balluff's high-end version, the Micropulse Plus, adds a configurable dual output providing position and velocity information. The latter permits even very slow movements down to 0.0003m/s to be monitored. A second current output allows two separate processor units to be connected. Parameter setting, programming and startup of the system can be carried out via the USB interface.
Balluff transducers are also available in profile housings with floating or captive magnet for installation on machine frames, with the waveguide being protected inside an extruded aluminium housing.
For more information, visit www.balluff.co.uk
