Getting the measure of large-scale structural monitoring tasks

Positek’s PIPS non-contacting sensor technology, based on a simple, single coil design, delivers highly accurate and repeatable position feedback for linear, rotary and tilt displacement measurement, says the company.

“A wide range of product variants and Positek’s extensive custom design capability combine to provide users with novel and cost-efficient measurement verification solutions across all branches of industry and science.”

One such application area the company references is for linear displacement tracking, as part of the structural monitoring systems that maintain safety in the harsh and extreme environments on bridges and other large construction projects. “Whether installed during construction and required for long-term health monitoring or for shorter term structural degradation analysis for maintenance or refurbishment, Positek’s linear displacement solutions can provide compelling solutions when compared to other electro-mechanical displacement measurement technologies such as potentiometers or LVDTs,” it adds.

Consistency in harshest environments

“And, as alternatives to laser, fibre optic and ultrasonic displacement sensors, Positek’s cost-effective and highly durable range offers consistent measurement in the harshest environments – with IP68 and IP69 ratings in durable stainless-steel housings for straightforward installation, without the need for additional protective equipment.”

For displacement monitoring on road and rail bridges and similarly large structures, a typical complement of several individually mounted Positek sensors, such as heavy-duty S115 series push-rod variant, can be used to monitor the real-time displacement between critical structural elements.

These 35 mm body diameter sensors provide continuous positional information via a wide choice of industry-standard electrical outputs with a calibrated proportional and absolute output-to-length ratio. “This allows complete flexibility for the customer’s preferred data-logging or other instrumentation system, and there is no need for additional signal conditioning.”

With environmental sealing to IP68 and 10 bar pressure endurance, the all-stainless steel S115 series benefits from straightforward mounting options that include M8 rod eye bearings and body tube clamps. The sturdy 12.6 mm diameter push-rod can be supplied free moving, captive or spring loaded in either travel direction. With its minimal overall body-to-measurement length, the compact sensor is easily installed.

Customers can select a calibrated measurement range from 5 mm to 800 mm and the push-rod design can be custom adapted to accommodate large installed spans between the fixed and moving elements of the application.

Real-time linear position detection

“The S115 has a typical linearity specification of <±0.25% over a 450 mm measurement range and an effectively infinite resolution that allows real-time linear position detection of the smallest sub-millimetre structural movements.

“With no contact between its moving electrical components, the sensor’s reliability and life is exceptionally highm in comparison to potentiometer alternatives. With potential mounting sites needing to survive high humidity, driving rain and severe temperature extremes, the sealed IP68 rated sensors’ durability is further assured with respective shock and vibration specification values of 10g (IEC 68-2-6) and 40g (IEC 68-2-29). As with all other Positek sensors, a wide choice of electrical connection options is offered.”

The UK-based ISO 9001-2008 qualified manufacturer’s comprehensive range includes linear, rotary and tilt displacement sensors, based on its patented PIPS technology that are extensively used across a wide variety of industrial and scientific position measurement tasks. Along with custom design service, Positek also offers a range of ATEX- and IECEx-qualified sensors for structural monitoring and other measurement tasks for intrinsically safe installation.