It is not unusual in industry for high temperatures to occur, but the automated systems have to cope. For this reason ifm electronic is launching a range of self-contained inductive proximity sensors capable of working up to 180degC.
Six variants in four sizes are available - M12, M18, M30 and M50. The single notable difference being that the M12 units will operate up to a slightly lower 150degC, which in itself is still roughly double the maximum of a standard sensor.
The solder used in normal electronics melts at temperatures above 100degC, and electronic components need to be carefully selected. Other materials, such as the cable, must also withstand higher temperatures. For this reason the high-temperature units are manufactured with stainless steel housings fitted with a silicone cable. The cable in each case is 5m in length to enable connections to be made where the temperature is lower.
For applications in steel and glass industries, or any others using kilns, furnaces and ovens, the new high-temperature inductive sensors from ifm electronic are a good choice. For further information email [email protected], or visit www.ifm-electronic.co.uk.