Position Measurement & Control - April 2003 (S050M)

NEW PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT

The Inner Workings of the Series C Displacement Sensor for OEM and Industrial Control Uses

Part II - Product Details

Editor's Note: This is the second part of a three-part coverage on the Series C displacement sensors. Part I (Introduction) was covered previously. Part III (Applications) will be covered in a future issue of Position Measurement & Control.

Firstmark Controls has focused on small-size, moderate-range, rugged-environment displacement measurement requirements for nearly 35 years. Over those years, we have been repeatedly requested to create products that go beyond the 42.5-inch range Series 162 units. With the introduction of the Series C displacement transducer, this extended range is now available.

The Series C displacement sensor family provides:

• high accuracy: the best repeatability due to its threaded drum
• durability: precision-machined aluminum and steel components survive extreme environments
• flexibilty: a choice for mounting, cable positioning, and electrical outputs
• extended range: up to 85 inches (2159 mm)
• protection: NEMA 4X / IP 66 (standard), NEMA 6 / IP 67 (optional)
• affordability: the industrial displacement sensor with the lowest cost of ownership

How does the Series C family do all that? See below for details.

A Detailed Look a the Series C Displacement Sensor

1 - 85-inch (2159-mm) displacement range	2 - analog (voltage divider) or digital (quadrature) outputs	3 - NEMA4 / IP66 environmental protection
4 - AccuTrakTM threaded drum increases repeatability	5 - FastInstallTM mounting is secure, fast, and low-profile	6 - UniIdlerTM cable exit allows 270° displacement cable flexibility
7 - DirectConnectTM technology eliminates backlash that results with clutched and geared designs	8 - flexible mounting: cam locks, flat base, saddle base	9 - MIL-SPEC sealed electrical connector
10 - affordable for OEM and industrial control applications	11 - precision-machined, anodized aluminum components give long life, high accuracy	12 - small size
13 - customer-changeable displacement cable	14 - unibody construction survives severe shock and vibration	15 - mountable from either end

For more information on the Series C displacement sensors:

• News Release
• Data Sheet for full technical information
• Evaluation Position Transducer Program to test the Series C position transducer with no obligation
• Request a Quote for price and delivery

APPLICATION CORNER

Accessories for Easy Installation

A substantial benefit of Firstmark Controls cable-type position transducers is fast and easy installation. To make installation even easier, you may want to consider accessories now described on our Mounting Bases and Accessories page located at s021r.htm.

Sensor Total Cost of Ownership White Paper and Calculator

The selection of the proper sensor or transducer for a given application includes an evaluation of the costs of the sensor or transducer. Initial purchase costs can be less than 20% of the product's lifetime costs. Only by considering the lifetime costs can you ensure you are specifying an optimum solution.

Tools for understanding and evaluating sensor cost of ownership are now complete. To review the Sensor Total Cost of Ownership White or Calculator, visit:

• White Paper: s054a.htm
• Calculator: calctco.htm

IN ACTION

Hot News: Position Transducers At 900° F (482° C)

Many Firstmark Controls position transducers are rated for use up to 257° F (125° C). But what if your application exceeds that temperature level? One possibility is to isolate the position transducer in an area that is exposed to an acceptable temperature and route the displacement cable to the hot area of the application. Most Firstmark Controls displacement cable is constructed of 304 stainless steel cable that has a melting point of 2590° F (1421° C).

Example applications where the stainless steel displacement cable can be put in harm's way while the position transducer housing stays protected include foundries and forges, jet engines, and industrial heating systems.

If your application calls for exposure of the stainless steel cable in environments with extreme heat or cold, you may want to consult the Thermal Effect Calculator (calctemp.htm).

Firstmark Controls products can be purchased from an extensive network of representatives. These firms are fully-qualified to answer technical and commercial questions on Firstmark Controls products and services. To find a firm in your region, visit reps.htm.

ISSN 1527-5108