Extend prox switch range affordably

-- Control Engineering, 5/1/2001

Florence, Ky.-Need greater sensing distance while keeping proximity switch diameter small? Now it's possible to beat the laws of physics with Prox Actuator. Actually, the same inexpensive small proximity switch can be used with sensing range expanded to 3.8-in. (97 mm). A threaded stainless steel actuator is mounted in the traditional through-hole such that the extended end of its spring-loaded plunger comes I contact with the target. The other end mounts in an anodized aluminum mounting clamp along with a 4 or 8 mm prox sensor. When light contact with the target is made, the plunger is pushed back, and its opposite end is detected by the prox. As the target moves away, the spring returns the plunger to its original position.

Balluff