Cable-actuated position sensor is compact and reliable

Paul Boughton
ASM is launching a compact, reliable, cable-actuated position sensor, the WS17KT series, which is suitable for position measurement needs from 1.5-15m in harsh industrial environments. This sensor is said to be quick and easy to use.

At the heart of the WS17KT series is a highly flexible stainless steel cable that is attached to the object whose position needs to be measured. This cable is accurately spooled as a single layer on a cable drum, which translates the linear motion into a rotational motion; the drum is coupled to a precise hybrid potentiometer that produces an electrical output signal. An internal spring maintains the cable tension throughout the measurement range. The 0-1kOhm output signal can be translated into either optional 0-10V or 4-20mA (two- or three-wire) signals. The WS17KT series is also available with an absolute, digital SSI (synchronous serial interface) output with up to 16-bit resolution.

The rugged corrosion-resistant metal housing of the WS17KT series is rated to IP64 and can be ordered with optional IP66 protection. Its compact design is well suited to applications such as materials handling equipment, packaging and machine tools.

ASM says that, unlike with other linear measuring technologies, perfect alignment over the entire measurement range is not required with the WS17KT series. The compact housing of the WS17KT series is also claimed to have a smaller footprint than comparable models with the same measurement range, and the WS17KT series can be quickly installed with only four bolts.

For more information, visit www.asm-sensor.com

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