Page 2 of catalogue Non-Contact Pneumatic Sensors of Festo AG & Co. KG

Non-Contact Pneumatic Sensors
Features and Applications Features
s Reliable even where there is a large amount of dirt (self-cleaning due to emitted air jet). s Reliable operation with high ambient temperatures (around foundries and Welding equipment). s Use even in explosive environments (chemical industry, pyrotechnics and paint industries). s As opposed to electrical, optical, and acoustic elements, insensitive to magnetic influences and sound waves. s Reliable even in complete darkness and when sensing transparent objects (Glass, clear plastic, etc.) s Maintenance-free with unlimited life (no moving parts). The high accuracy, high reliability and compact size of Festo non-contact, pneumatic sensors make them particularly suited to close tolerance applications in confined, hard-to-reach spaces, or in tough, dirty or hazardous environments. Sensing accuracy within 0.004", plus fast response and rugged, self-cleaning design provide the superior dependability you need. These sensors are ideal replacements for mechanical limit Valves and electrical switches. Pneumatic/electric converters can be used for interfacing with remote electrical controls in hybrid systems. Operation Non-contact, pneumatically operated sensors detect the presence of an object or its distance by means of an air jet. Object presence is indicated by a variation in the signal pressure output.
Edge control (reflex proximity sensor) Part-in-place or end-position sensing (reflex proximity sensor)

Three functional sensor categories: s Air-barrier Gap/Sensors Interruption of an air jet between the sender nozzle and the receiver by the object being sensed results in a lowering of signal pressure at the receiver. s Reflex Proximity sensors Reflection of an air jet from the object being sensed results in a rise of signal pressure at the output port, depending on a sense-range and supply pressure. s Back Pressure sensors Blocking of the air jet opening with the object being sensed results in a rise of signal pressure at the output port to the level of supply pressure.

The drawings below illustrate the usage of various sensors. For maximum sensing ranges, see page 187.

Typical Applications

Strip monitor (gap sensor)

Cam-type rotational position sensor (gap sensor)

Edge control (air-barrier)

Parts counting/pressure indicates (air-barrier)

184

Subject to change