BMF 204K – Miniature sensor with integrated mount

Series BMF binary switching, magnetic field sensitive electronic cylinder switches from Balluff impress with their flexibility. Positions can be detected on virtually any pneumatic cylinder or gripper. With the new BMF 204K the sensor specialists have now completed their line of magnetic field sensors with a special version optimized for C-slots.

Flush mountable with the an unmatched length of just 20 mm, it disappears in the C-slot without protruding. This makes it ideal for use in short stroke cylinders, mini-grippers and other space-critical applications. And as an especially economical solution, the new cylinder switch costs hardly more than a conventional reed sensor.

The holding element is already integrated into the cylinder switch, making installation and adjustment quite simple: Slide the sensor into the slot, position, turn a screw to tighten, and you’re done! This new little giant also stands out in practical use, with high accuracy, short overtravel distances and low hysteresis. The sensor is optimized mechanically for the Festo C-slot, but also fits in slot styles like that of SMC.

Beginning with MOTEK, the sensor will be available in a cable version with IP 67 plastic housing and PNP normally open output. Pigtail versions with M8-connector and cable lengths of 0.3 and 0.5 meters will follow in October.

With the BMF series of minis from Balluff, designers can now implement high-dynamic application concepts in pneumatics requiring components of low weight and a small footprint. BMF sensors detect individual positions, such as end-of-travel on pneumatic cylinders, wear-free and precisely and can “see” the permanent magnets installed on the piston rod through the non-magnetizable cylinder wall. As soon as the piston approaches, the output signal jumps to the other state.