Sensor mounting fastener improvements

Balluff is finding new ways to improve mounting fasteners for sensors to adapt to a variety of new situations for OEMs and system integrators.

August 27, 2011

All too often, the location and installation of industrial sensors is an oversight by many machine builders and OEMs. Understandably, the fit of these small components in the overall complexities of the engineers’ design seem like the most basic of tasks.

However, the decision of where and how to locate a sensor is many times not made until the machine or equipment is actually being constructed. In-house fabricated fastening systems can be expensive and time consuming. Balluff seeks to help by developing a modular mounting system for users. In just a few steps, these mechanically rugged standard mounting accessories can easily handle complex positioning tasks. 

The fasteners are available in plastic or V4A stainless steel, making the mounting system ideal for use in challenging industrial environments and in automotive areas. The high quality stainless steel versions provide resistance to industrial cleaning agents common in wash-down environments. This means they can be used in the pharmaceutical and food industries or in breweries having strict hygienic requirements.

The aluminum base holder fits nearly any manufacturer-specific mounting extrusion and fully covers the slot. Also featured are knurled support rods, which provide a secure hold even for large, heavy sensors.

The sensor fixturing system includes every conceivable accessory, including clamping cylinders, cross-connectors as well as sensor holders for block style and tubular sensors, many designed so that in their fastening function they also provide mechanical protection for the sensor. Completing the offering are components such as reflector holders and adapter plates.

To ensure that no user requirements go unfulfilled, Balluff said it is continuing to develop new components for the mounting system.

www.balluff.com 

Balluff

– Edited by Chris Vavra, Control Engineering, www.controleng.com

Learn more about industrial sensors at

https://www.controleng.com/new-products/sensors.html