Magnetic Rotary Encoders for HeavyDuty Applications

Baumer: In the field of drive engineering, measured value acquisition poses increasingly difficult challenges when it comes to dynamics and precision. These two generally conflicting requirements are difficult to unite when using conventional rotary encoders. If, in addition, sensors need to be robust enough to be used in the toughest operating environments, new solutions and approaches are required. For applications like these, Baumer Hübner, a German-based company specializing in rotary encoders, produces robust, specially engineered encoders, that use a magnetic sensing method, combined with complex interpolation and evaluation electronics. These enable position, speed and other variables like acceleration to be measured synchronously, and deliver both high-dynamic and high-resolution readings.

The encoder rotor can be supplied with a diameter of up 800 mm and can be screw-mounted straight onto a drive shaft or attached with a clamping ring or clamping fixture. Encoder rotor and dedicated sensing head are of short axial length and can be adapted easily to existing fittings. Thanks to the interpolation electronics, measured value acquisition can be customized across a wide range in line with individual needs and requirements. Particularly with very large hollow shafts, the magnetic sensing method has distinct advantages over optical sensing: It allows a larger clearance between rotor and sensing head and, thus, greater radial mounting tolerances. Another advantage is that it can accommodate axial tolerances in drive shafts resulting, say, from thermal expansion. Because the encoders do not need own bearings and the sensing head electronics are completely encapsulated, they also afford high IP protection, are exceptionally robust and have the added benefit that they are wear-free.