The Process Behind Inductive Proximity Sensors

Position can be determined via one of two ways—either by determining ‘distance’ (the length of separation between two points) or by ‘rotation’ (angular movement). Sensors that are positional in nature can detect the movement of an object using linear sensors that employ the distance method or through rotational sensors that compute for rotation.

One type of positional sensor is the “Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LDVT), an inductive-type sensor that functions similar to the AC transformer when it comes to measuring movement. A common type of inductive positional sensor is the Eddy current sensor, which is mainly used to detect objects in close proximity. Due to this characteristic, Eddy sensors earned the more popular moniker ‘proximity sensors’.

Current Sensing in the Manufacturing Industry

Electric motors are used extensively in the manufacturing industry. Whether AC- or DC-powered, electric motors are used to drive conveyors, fans, pumps, and a broad range of specialized equipment designed to speed up and automate specific manufacturing tasks. Many types of motors exist for many different applications, but they all have one thing in common: They all require electrical current to generate the magnetic fields necessary for them to function.

The need to monitor electric current

When an electrical motor’s current is monitored, useful information can be obtained regarding the status of the motor and the equipment it runs. Consequently, this information can be used to protect both the motor and the equipment connected to it.

Different Types of Current Transformer

Current transformers are used to protect current measuring devices from dangerous voltages running through transmission lines. They come in a variety of shapes, forms, and sizes to suit various levels of voltage and wire diameters. Here are three major types of current transformer available on the market today.

Solid Core

This is the most common yet least recommended type of current transformer consisting of a secondary coil wound on a round-shaped core and connected to the ammeter. The reason it’s not recommended is that its installation requires cutting the transmission line just to insert the device, which means additional cost and interruption in the service due to the need for opening the circuit.

Stay Safe When Working with Electrical Equipment

When working in dangerous environments, safety should always be the first priority. This is especially true for those who work with electricity. With that in mind, here are a few safety measures you should take before you start working:

Check Electrical Equipment

Malfunctioning electrical equipment is a massive electrocution risk. Inspect your equipment carefully for any faulty or peeling wiring and other forms of damage. If your device has a current transformer, don’t forget to inspect that as well. If you feel a tingling sensation when touching an electrical device, stop working immediately and ask for replacement equipment.

Take Off Your Watch

It is no secret that metals conduct electricity, so remove your watch while you’re working. Rings, piercings, and jewelry should also be removed. It may seem like an obvious thing to do, but this important safety measure easily slips the mind of many people.

Bring a Towel

A small, super absorbent face towel will suffice. This is so that you can wipe off any sweat from areas where your skin is exposed, thereby decreasing the chance of your sweat conducting electricity.

Working with electricity is no laughing matter. All it takes is for one person to be lax in his or her safety procedures for an accident to happen. Always run through the safety measures above before you start working with electricity.