Instrumentation Monthly Test | Measurement | Control
The demands on sensor performance over the past 20 years have steadily increased as engineers realise applications and installations in progressively harsher and more challenging environments around the globe. The latest solution for valve position feedback from Pepperl+Fuchs is designed to meet not only the current requirements but also those for the next 20 years. The “Puck & Sensor” solution has been substantially reworked to offer a robust evolution of the concept which is now suitable for use anywhere from the deserts of North Africa to the far reaches of Northern Russia, on and off shore.
Extremes of temperature place significant demands on material choices for the construction of robust sensors and with an operating temperature span of over 100°C the design has had to undergo significant testing. At its extremes the new sensor will operate down to -40°C and up to 75°C. Resistance to the elements is also essential and the sensor is constructed to resist UV light, salt water and corrosion, with options for electrostatically conductive plastic, stainless steel and marine grade aluminium. Be it rain, sand, hail or snow this new design is able to weather the storm.
Ease of installation is a must for any device and the new sensor delivers in several ways. It uses namur standard mountings, requiring only two bolts to fit directly to the actuator without the need for mounting adaptors. Connecting electrically to the sensor is simplified by the large terminal chamber wich allows the use of M20 cable glands to accomdate large diameter cables, and a removable terminal block aids wiring in cold or awkward locations where cable flexibilty may be limited.
Indication of valve position is achieved locally either with the standard puck options, which suit a range of shaft diameters from 50mm to 90mm, or alternatively by a new beacon indicator puck offering increased local visibility of valve position.
The sensor is IP69k rated as standard and for applications requiring additional physical robustness a metal cover is also available which is strong enough to withstand 7 joules.
The F31K2 is the latest addition to a family of valve position sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs which encompass a wide range of solutions to suit every application and budget.
For more information, please visit www.pepperl-fuchs.co.uk