Capacitive Sensors with IO-Link

IO-Link simplifies setting in difficult applications and increases plant availability through predictive maintenance

Turck is presenting at the SPS IPC Drives fair its BCT capacitive sensors with an IO-Link interface. IO-Link enables the parameters of switches, such as in level control applications, to be set easily. The internal process value of the sensor can be displayed in different damping states via FDT frameworks such as Pactware or the machine controller. This simplifies the teaching of the sensor in difficult applications and enables the diagnosis of sensor or container contamination. Alternatively, the BCT sensors can be set according to the particular model, also by teach buttons or teach cable. This last feature provides protection against unauthorized manipulation during operation.

The BCT with IO-Link enables the user to carry out predictive maintenance. The sensor reports by IO-Link event if the temperature in the housing exceeds the critical value. The state of the power supply is also monitored and reported. The user can thus detect a possible wire break early on and can rectify the weak point before a fault brings the plant to a standstill.

The BCT meets the requirements of protection type IP67 and is available in four variants: It is available as an M18 variant with a 5 mm standard switching distance and as an M30 variant with a 10 mm switching distance – each for flush mounting. If the sensors are mounted as non-flush devices the switching distance is increased by a further 50 %. Both variants are available with or without teach buttons.