Linear position sensor uses open housing and two part design for high performance and low cost

Novotechnik has developed a range of potentiometric linear position sensors for precision measurement supplied in open housings. The aim is to reduce the component cost for high accuracy position feedback applications.

The PTP series is a robust two part design including a multi fingered wiper assembly and separate open sided extruded aluminium housing containing a conductive plastic track. This design facilitates straightforward mounting to equipment where sealing against dust or fluid is not necessary. The conductive plastic resistance elements comprise multiple printed layers using Novotechnik's own specialised conductive inks in combination with multi-fingered precious metal wipers featuring a unique elastomer damping mechanism to maintain complete contact even under the most demanding working conditions. The PTP series specification includes a typical life of 50million movements with a vibration rating to 20g at 2000Hz and shock to 50g. With a speed capability to 10m/sec, repeatability to 0.01mm, and linearity to +/- 0.05%, these sensors are aimed at high accuracy and high reliability position measurement in clean environment applications or within customer sealed housings. The PTP series is part of a wide range of Novotechnik contacting and non contacting angular position sensors available exclusively in the UK and Ireland from Variohm EuroSensor. Novotechnik's conductive plastic technology is well proven across large volume industrial and automotive applications for both rotary and linear position measurement in fully sealed and open designs with a numerous mounting styles and grades of precision including dual redundancy versions, and with customisation readily available to suit specialised applications.