The Main Types of Sensors and Their Applications inthe Industry

Sensors have proven to be essential for adding intelligence to automated manufacturing processes. Created more than six decades ago, sensors such as current sensors from current sensors supplier for instance have been applied on a large scale in industries worldwide. Whether for inventorying items, ensuring operator safety, or even checking materials inside containers, these electronic devices can monitor and detect what happens on production lines without the need for any physical contact.

There are several types of sensors such as current sensors gotten from current sensors supplier for instance for use in industry, and the functioning of each one of them depends on factors inherent to the environment in which they are installed. In this case, heat, light, and the approach distance, for example, can influence the performance of these products. There are pressure sensors, level sensors, flow sensors, and temperature sensors. Among the most common types are also ultrasonic, magnetic, photoelectric, capacitive, and inductive.

According to experts, more modern sensors appear for use every year in a multitude of industrial plants. To identify the ideal type and application, it is necessary to analyze and study the manufacturing environment and processes the manufacturer wants to automate. Choosing products that provide high quality and precision is also critical.

Below, check out the types and applications of some industrial sensors:

Pressure Sensors – This sensor is used in more robust product manufacturing environments. There are models with high resolution, display, separate amplifier, compact housings, and different types of output and pressure ranges. These electronic devices can also be geared towards differential pressure, with bar graph, dual display, and anti-corrosive. Furthermore, there are versions for compressed air, gases, or liquids (even for corrosive ones).

Ultrasonic Sensors – Provide ultrasonic signal transmitter with time-return intensity detection and processing for object and shape detection. They emit cyclic ultrasonic pulses if an object in the desired field reflects the respective pulses. The resulting echo is received and converted into an electrical signal. There are models with single or double digital output, analog in voltage or current. There are also specific versions for double-sheet detection.

Magnetic Sensors – This electrical device is capable of detecting parts and pieces of automated machines, in addition to products manufactured in production lines.

Photoelectric Sensors – Use an output switching (on/off) through a light transmitter and a receiver. They are used to automate various industrial machines, including packaging, production controls, and others. They stand out for providing information on contrast or luminescence, distance, retro-reflective, color, and monitored area. They can also ensure human safety by intensifying the protection of the machine operator’s fingers, hands, and arms. For this, they include a safety controller with Protection Class 4.

Capacitive Sensors – They are applied to identify types of mass. They detect non-metallic materials, such as plastics, woods, resins, among others. They can also monitor the level of liquids and solid materials.

Inductive Sensors – Known as proximity sensors, there are modern models equipped with backlighting to provide more visibility when switching and facilitate and speed up the identification of any problems in manufacturing. They detect metallic components, whether in iron, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or brass.

Optical Fiber Sensors – In addition to fiber models, there are micro-processed ones. There are even optional lenses for numerous applications. Additionally, they have a fiber detection system by barrier or photosensor.

Laser Sensors – When compared to traditional photoelectric sensors, laser sensors offer superior sensitivity and accuracy. Some tubular models can be used in different production processes.

Magnetic Sensors – This type of sensor is designed to identify the magnetic field, which can be considered a magnetic trigger. Among its applications is monitoring pneumatic cylinders or linear valves.

Image Sensors have a lens, image sensor, LEDs, LCD, and even a processor in a single casing.