Optical fibre micrometers for harsh environments

These new optoCONTROL CLS-K sensors comprise a transmitter and receiver for either infrared or ultraviolet light with subsequent signal processing. Measurements are made directly on the target object using optical fibre. The correct light guide is selected depending on the measurement task. Here, the decisive factors are distance from the target object to the electronics, as well as the minimum installation space required.

optoCONTROL CLS-K sensors can be used in demanding, harsh industrial applications, as the separate electronics unit can be mounted at a safe distance from the sensor. Amplifiers are provided, with wavelengths from 280nm, enabling measuring frequencies of 4-8kHz at resolutions starting from 0.1mm.

Typical applications include edge detection, counting, glass detection, monitoring and control of mounting procedure, gap detection, and scanning tasks in potentially explosive (hazardous) atmospheres.

In addition to the optoCONTROL CLS-K series, Micro-Epsilon offers four other optical micrometers. With these sensors, a light source emits a laser or LED light curtain in the direction of the receiver. The LED or laser light produced is parallel enlarged using lenses. The light intensity or the shadow received is evaluated on a CCD element. The sensor has no mechanical parts, which ensures a longer service life, while offering faster measurements. These sensors measure diameter, width, gap, position, edge, opacity or segments of a body edge using a light curtain, reaching widths of up to 100mm.

Integrated electronics

The most compact, high-speed sensor in the range is the optoCONTROL 1200. The electronics are integrated within the sensor, which can be used for high-speed processes and where installation space is tight. Tracking of an edge within the measuring beam is just one application for this sensor.

Next in the series, the optoCONTROL 1202 features a 75mm or 100mm-wide laser light strip, so the measuring range is almost twice that of other sensor models. Typical applications include diameter evaluations, detecting the left or right edge of a gap, gap width detection, and the detection of multiple gaps or edges within the measuring range.

A laser-based high-resolution micrometer, the optoCONTROL 2500 can be used for all common measurement tasks starting at a resolution of o1um. The sensor is typically used in dual-sensor measuring lines in order to monitor one or more gaps or edge mass.

Using a red LED laser, the optoCONTROL 2600 micrometer provides high-precision measurements even in strong ambient light conditions. A typical application is in the position detection of copper pipes during production. Resolution starts at 0.1 micrometre, and all measuring parameters can be set up via the controller or integrated to the production process via the sensor's serial interface.

Follow the link for more information about Micro-Epsilon's optoCONTROL optical micrometers.