The launch of ME-7 Series Linear Position Sensors by the Alliance Sensors Group (Moorestown, NJ) facilitates a wide range of multiple applications. These sensors have been designed for embedded use suitable for measuring the ram position in hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, in subsea, mobile or industrial applications. The ME-7 series is designed to be a functional replacement for embedded type magnetostrictive sensors with a drop-in form and fit for use. They can also be used as a replacement for embedded resistive potentiometers. Not only does the ME-7 series provide optimum accuracy, there is no wear-out involved. The design offers a number of unique features.
The ME-7 Series offers measurements ranging from four to 36 inches, which translates as 100 to 900 mm while operating at pressures of 5000 psi as well as at depths of 10,000 feet or 3,000 meters. The sensors are available with aluminum or stainless steel housing, both of which are categorized under IEC IP-67. The operating temperature is typically 85°C, but the series is also being offered with an operational temperature of 105°C as an optional feature. The analog output is in DC volts or current and these inductive sensors have been designed with the requirements of multiple applications in mind.
Although the Alliance Sensors Group has designed the ME-7 series to be highly robust, at the same time they have maintained the cost to a level that makes it affordable to the user. The technology used for ME-7 series is proprietary and known as contactless inductive sensing technology. It uses a 7 mm diameter solid probe requiring only a simple conductive tube target. This can be a simple gun drill ID of the cylinder rod that the operation is utilizing. This is considered better than a magnet or a special target type typically used by other sensors. The ME-7 series can replace an existing magnetostrictive sensor.
These sensors can be embedded at the same location that is configured for accepting magnetostrictive sensors. It is vital to note that the magnet from the magnetostrictive sensor need not be removed from its current place. The performance of ME-7 is not affected due to the presence of the magnet. Additionally, since the ME-7 series sensors are contactless, there is no wear and tear and the output signal is free from any deterioration. With the use of inductive coil in place of wires and the use of “time of flight” technology, the ME-7 series sensors are able to withstand shocks and vibrations in a more sustained manner.
The Alliance Sensors Group can justifiably claim that ME-7 series sensors have a very robust construction, are able to adapt to existing cylinder designs, offer higher resolutions as well as offer options for multiple analog outputs. There is no need for a target rod or magnet and the sensors have an infinite life, as they are free from any contact. It is expected that almost all users will be able to benefit from the ME-7 series in more than one way.
