ifm efector Compact PQ Series pressure sensors for pneumatic applications

The compact ifm PQ Series pressure and vacuum sensors are designed for pneumatic applications often found in robotics and material handling applications.

February 17, 2010

ifm PQ Pressure Sensor for pneumatic applications

ifm’s compact PQ Series pressure sensors are designed for pneumatic applications typically found in robotics and material handling applications. The sensors precisely measure the full range of pressure and vacuum typical in these applications. The cube-shaped pneumatic pressure sensor easily retrofits traditional pressure switches at a fraction of the price, the company says. Measuring 32 mm x 30 mm x 42 mm, the compact sensor can be installed in areas with limited mounting space.

Application parameters are established using two pushbuttons. The bright, four-digit display indicates system pressure and can be clearly seen from long distances. The sensor features two programmable switching outputs or one switching and one diagnostic output. In addition, the values can be programmed to change color depending on the switching output status (such as red if output 1 is switched; green if output 1 is not switched).

The technology is based on a piezo-resistive measuring element. The silicon measuring cell is insensitive to liquids (such as condensed water) and deposits that might occur in the system. The cell changes resistance when pressure is applied. The stress induced in the cell is transformed into an electric signal that is proportional to the pressure. The silicon measuring cell guarantees a high overload resistance as well as an accuracy of

For mounting purposes, the PQ pressure sensor can be fixed to flat surfaces and profiles using the sensor’s two M4 drill holes located in the front of the sensor. The PQ can be mounted to a DIN rail or connected to plates or manifolds using ifm’s robust DIN rail bracket. The sensor can be connected to air lines through the G-1/8 port using a 6 mm or 8 mm tubing adapter or a 1/8-in. NPT adapter. Two models are available. PQ7809 has a measuring range of -14.5 psi to 14.5 psi and the PQ7834 has a measuring range of -14.5 psi to 145 psi. Electrical connection is made through an M8 Pico dc connector. ifm efector inc. products include inductive and capacitive proximity switches, photoelectric sensors, fiber optics, vision sensors, vibration sensors, condition monitors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, level sensors, valve position sensors, mobile control solutions, ID systems, AS-i networking and Safety at Work products. www.ifm.com/us

Also see:
– ifm 3D image sensor ;
– ifm flowmeter for critical volumetric dosing applications ;
– Photoelectric sensors take high temperatures, chemical sprays in Elopak filling machines ; and
– ifm optical fork and angle sensors .

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor in chief, Control Engineering , www.controleng.com. See also the Control Engineering Sensor Channel .