Encoders – Our Top 5

Encoders come in all shapes, sizes and styles, from Programmable and Non-Contact to Draw Wire versions and many more besides. There’s a process relying on an encoder just about everywhere within modern industrial and commercial applications. Typically, encoders generate signals in response to motion, providing data concerning direction, velocity and position from production processes such as the location of specific conveyors, machine tools and products and jigging etc.

Speed, Position, Length, Direction

Encoders are commonplace in processing applications that manufacture a product that is sold in length units, such as a bolt of fabric. Wherever a product or process needs to have its position, speed, direction or length monitored, an encoder will be there. There are two main sensing techniques used for encoders, linear and rotary with differing encoder measurement types such as absolute and incremental. The right encoder choice can be confusing with many in the first instance stumbling over the difference between absolute and incremental encoders.

A selection of encoders

Absolute or Incremental? What is the Difference?

Absolute Encoders

An absolute encoder can maintain positional data when power is removed which is then immediately available again when power is reapplied. The initial set-up point of the encoder and the machinery is established when they assembled together meaning that the encoder doesn’t need to return to a calibration point to maintain accuracy.

Incremental Encoders

An incremental encoder monitors, and will immediately report on changes in the position of a processing device, but, an incremental encoder will not report or keep track of its absolute position and begins its count from zero when power is applied. This means that the system that is being monitored by an incremental encoder may have to be moved back to a reference point to begin accurate position monitoring.

 

The Encoder Countdown

Programmable Incremental Rotary Encoder – DFS60B-S4PA10000

Programmable incremental encoder

This popular programmable incremental encoder can produce 10000 pulses per revolution (PPR), has a high resolution of 16 bits ensuring precise measurements and has excellent concentricity even at high line speeds. With software selectable outputs, TTL(RS422) or HTL(Push-pull), these all add up to making this the perfect universal incremental encoder. Compact installation depth, great temperature resistance, extended bearing life, simple to install and easily programmed on-site, what more do you want?

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Measuring Wheel Encoder – the Long Distance Champ – DBV50E-22ELA1000

length measuring encoder

When measuring the length of material is vital to your production process then this durable and capable measuring wheel encoder is just the ticket. With 1000 pulses per revolution (PPR), a 200 mm diameter measuring wheel and error limits of only +/-4 mm per metre (depending on the wheel used) the DBV50E-22ELA1000 is your perfect length measuring partner. With a practical spring-loaded arm to help maintain the encoders contact with your material of choice and extended service life, length reliable length measuring was never easier.

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Non-contact, Friction-less Linear Encoding – MIL 10-S2.LN.0005P.A

Non-contact linear encoder

When it comes to incremental linear encoders that cannot make physical contact with an object then the MIL10 series of non-contact magnetic sensing encoders from Baumer could just be what you are looking for. The MIL 10-S2.LN.0005P.A is perfect for non-contact linear measurement in processing and production equipment, safety systems and more. With no aspect of the encoder required to make physical contact with any mechanism, its life expectancy is exceptional. Highly resistant to dirty environments and vibrations and featuring HTL-push-pull and TTL-RS442 outputs it’s the perfect non-contact linear encoder choice.

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Cable Pull – Just add an Encoder – ECN30PL-02A1A-X2:NN

Cable pull encoder body

Not really an encoder per se, but you certainly need one to make the most of these Cable pulls, they are ideal for measuring the distance travelled by a piece of equipment that the cable pull is attached to. The ECN30PL-02A1A-X2:NN has an impressive 60 metres of rust and acid-resistant stainless steel measuring cable housed in a robust aluminium housing.  With a standard mounting you can install just about any encoder you require to facilitate accurate and dependable linear measuring operations.

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Tachogenerators – Speed and Power – GTR916L460

Tachogenerator encoder

The GTR916L460 is a bit different to your average encoder, known as a Tachogenerator this variant of an encoder can generate a voltage output that’s proportional to the speed of rotation of its shaft. Utilised in a wide variety of applications, Tachogenerators like this are used to power tachometers and measure the speed of various types of motors and rotary engines and other devices. With a 16 mm hollow shaft, low response time and an open-circuit voltage of 20 to 60 mV per rpm make this Tachogenerator the perfect fit for your next installation.

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Kempston Controls stocks a comprehensive range of encoders of all types to suit a myriad of industrial applications. Call our dedicated sales team on +44 (0) 1933 411411 or email us at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk to discuss your encoder requirements.

Have you read our other top 5 articles?

Top 5 Inductive Proximity Sensors

Top 5 Panel Meters


Kempston Controls is committed to finding you the ideal solution for your application. Call us today on +44 (0) 1933 411 411, email us at sales@kempstoncontrols.co.uk, or alternatively contact us here, we will be happy to help.

Kempston Controls

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