Miniature sensors take the strain

Maintaining and improving process performance, along with optimising quality control, while meeting the latest safety standards requires reliable data collection from a range of control systems.

“Force measurement sensors are vital components in some applications and, when the challenges are limited space or machinery has small structural dimensions, the latest BAUMER DST20 Miniature Strain Sensors are an ideal solution,” states the company.

Measuring large-scale forces

“DST 20 sensors are a compact and cost-efficient solution for measuring forces above 10,000 N, even in confined spaces. Overall dimensions of 28 x 12 x 10mm ensure outstanding space savings for a screw-on type strain sensor, combined with a robust stainless steel housing and certification for IP 65 degree protection.”

The sensors are designed for demanding production environments and applications, such as mechanical and process automation, and can, adds Baumer, be easily integrated into systems with minimum engineering effort. “The result is a durable and lasting force measurement solution, which can replace cold bonded strain gauges in limited space systems.”

Similar to other strain sensors in the Baumer portfolio, DTS20 sensors are based on the strain gauge technology with a strain gauge and strain body featuring ‘soft’ geometry on the inside, which minimises hardening of the structure to be measured.

Static and dynamic applications

"This makes the sensor suitable for both static and dynamic applications, as well as enabling thin structures to be monitored because of the limited reaction forces on the screws," reports Baumer.

The sensor is typically measured with an output signal of around 1.0mV/V, which usually eliminates the need for calibration with a separate force sensor. "This allows users to benefit from simple and quick commissioning, coupled with high measurement accuracy in the micrometre range, saving valuable time in the case of emergencies."

DST20 sensors are available in two measurement ranges of 500 and 1000 µm/m for different requirements, in terms of expected strains and permitted mechanical tension, depending on the steel quality. This means a single sensor can be used to cover a larger number of applications, reducing costs and space.