New sensors from Micro-Epsilon at Drives & Controls 2012

Micro-Epsilon claims that the eddyNCDT 3100 represents a world first in eddy current displacement measurement. With its Smart Sensor Auto Calibration system, the user now simply connects the eddy sensor to the 3100 controller and all calibration data is automatically uploaded from the sensor to the controller, with no need for any lengthy calibration.

In addition, all calibration data required for both ferrous (St37) and non-ferrous (aluminium) target materials is stored in the sensor before it is shipped. User-specific target materials can also be measured accurately using Micro-Epsilon's push-button, 3-point linearisation.

There are many new features in the eddyNCDT 3100 controller, including Ethernet connection for output signal and configuration. The configuration of the controller can be performed from the user's web browser by simply typing in the controller IP address - no additional software needs to be downloaded. All controllers are supplied with a default IP address that the user can amend later to a specific IP address.

The eddyNCDT 3100 controller is designed for industrial use. It is manufactured from aluminium, robust, compact, sealed to IP65, and has analogue outputs 4-20mA, 0-10V, -5+5V and built in hardware trigger. The controller is also equipped with status LEDs that give automatic status updates and fault diagnostics. The controller is designed as either a single or multi-channel system, with Synch-IN and Synch-OUT connections for multiple channels to prevent mutual interference.

Micro-Epsilon is also showcasing its latest thermoIMAGER TIM 400 and 450 inline infrared thermal imagers. These higher resolution cameras not only offer improved image resolutions, but also detect even smaller temperature differences.

TIM 400 and 450 are able to capture and store thermal video and images with very high optical resolution (382 × 288 pixels) at a full frame rate of 80Hz. The cameras are also equipped with new detectors, which provide thermal sensitivities of 80mK and 40mK respectively. This enables the cameras to detect even smaller changes in temperature. The TIM400 is available for less than 5000 and the TIM400 for less than 6000, described as price breakthroughs for infrared video capture cameras of this resolution and performance.

Quick and easy set-up

The new cameras come pre-calibrated with temperature ranges from -20degC to +900degC with an option to extend this to +1500deg C. The fully featured software, TIMConnect, included as standard, provides quick and easy set-up together with a range of software tools that enable the cameras to be used in R&D tasks, automated industrial environments, test cells and for automatic hotspot detection in process and quality control.

Compared with conventional infrared cameras, the TIM 400 and 450 cameras offer more than four times the number of pixels, which means infrared images are clearer and sharper. Very small objects with surface areas down to just 0.8mm2 can be detected reliably. A frame rate of 80Hz also allows infrared images to be captured in real time, making it suitable for dynamic, high-speed, fast-moving processes.

Protected to IP67, the TIM 400/450 is robust enough to be installed in harsh industrial environments. The camera can be equipped with optional accessories such as a water cooling jacket, which enables the camera to operate in ambient temperatures up to 240degC. Other options include a high-temperature USB cable, mounting flange and angled connector.

The TIM 400/450 is easy to integrate with existing plant automation and control systems. The unit is supplied with an integral process interface for input and output of analogue and digital signals (alarms, temperature values, etc.). Open connectivity drivers are also provided for software integration via DLL, ComPort and LabVIEW, simplifying connectivity to fieldbus networks and automation systems.

Visitors to the Micro-Epsilon stand will also be able to see the new thermoMETER CSmicro, one of the smallest infrared temperature sensors currently available. This miniature sensor has a diameter of just 14mm, with the electronics unit now fully integrated in the cable. The sensor now includes an LED for self-diagnostic functions or for displaying the current measured temperature. The sensor can be used in a wide range of OEM applications, particularly where installation space is restricted.

For more information or to arrange a demonstration of Micro-Epsilon sensors at the Drives & Controls and Plant & Asset Management exhibition, please call the sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email [email protected]. To find out more, visit the website at www.micro-epsilon.co.uk.