Hollow shaft position sensor offers reliable angle measurement in harsh environments

Variohm EuroSensor has launched the BEI Duncan 8360 series of high accuracy rotary position sensors.

Featuring non contact potentiometric technology with continuous rotation, electrical angles up to 360 degrees and dual redundant analogue outputs, the units are offered in a compact and robust IP65 sealed package that includes a splined through hole design for direct shaft mounting. The series is designed to suit both harsh environment and safety critical angle measurement applications where high reliability, long life and exceptional durability are important design considerations. According to the company, it is ideal for use in agricultural and construction machinery, medical equipment, industrial automation and process control. Typical uses include steering angle, crane boom angle, throttle range and traction control feedback. The sensor has an input voltage of 5Vdc and includes dual redundant 12bit analogue outputs with a range of 0.25 to 4.75VDC and accuracy to +/- 0.6%. A choice of 24 electrical angle ranges are available in 15 degree increments up to a full 360 degree rotation. With an overall thickness of less than 16mm and a nominal footprint of 85 x 105mm, the 8360 series sensor can be mounted in space restricted areas where the through-hole will directly interface with a 12tooth splined shaft from 16 to 20mm in diameter. For straightforward installation, the sensor has four face mount bush inserts and is supplied complete with a 200mm cable assembly with a 6pin AMP connector. In addition, the sensor has high shock and vibration resilience, overvoltage, short circuit and ESD protection as well as magnetic shielding. The nominal operational temperature range is rated at -30 to 85ºC with a an extended temperature option of -40 to 125°C. Further options include non standard electrical angles, non standard output slope, PWM output, CAN Bus communication, multi turn versions, IP67 sealing and special shaft interfacing.