Ametek Releases Linear Position Sensor Series With IO-Link

The position of a hydraulic cylinder is used to determine an end effector's location in space. Control systems will often use this information to drive sequences, processes, or faults depending on the scenario. Hydraulic applications typically take place in harsh conditions, so traditional sensing options will not work.

Recently, Ametek announced an addition to its existing 953 product line, the 953I, an IO-Link version of the non-contact rod-style linear position sensor specifically designed for hydraulic cylinders.

Ametek’s new 953I series linear position sensor is equipped with IO-Link. Image courtesy of Ametek

GEMCO 953I Series Linear Position Sensor With IO-Link

Specifically designed for use with hydraulic cylinders, the GEMCO 953 series is a non-contact magnetostrictive sensor that uses a current pulse and sliding magnet to determine position. The sensor is installed inside position sensor-ready cylinders and can withstand the harsh conditions that hydraulic cylinders are typically used in.

All of the 953 versions feature a measurement resolution of 0.00006”, a power supply range of 7-30 VDC, and an IP68 rating. These features make the 953 capable of operating in mobile or factory applications. The new 953I version has all the same features, plus IO-Link communication capability.

A diagram illustrating Ametek’s linear transducer mounted in a hydraulic cylinder. Image courtesy of Ametek

953I IO-Link Communication

The IO-Link protocol allows for more data to be transmitted to a control system. The protocol allows for not only process monitoring but also parameterization and diagnostics. By integrating IO-Link into an existing platform, Ametek will be able to service more industries and applications.

IO-Link in mobile applications means faster diagnostics and better monitoring of positional data. When technicians are in the field, it is important to ensure they have the data they need to resolve issues quickly. With IO-Link, the position sensor can be diagnosed or have parameters altered via an HMI, without special cables or interfaces.

A hydraulic cylinder used in a mobile application. Image courtesy of Unsplash

Hydraulic Positioning

A simple hydraulic cylinder uses high-pressure fluid to move an end effector. It could be a clamp, a bucket, or mold cavities. Hydraulics are often used because they can apply a lot of force in a compact package. Knowing where the cylinder is within its stroke can tell a control system a lot about what is happening in the physical space. 

Some applications require the cylinder to reach specific positions before continuing a sequence, such as pressing. A hydraulic press can apply thousands of pounds of pressure to join parts together, but if pressure builds before or after a specific point along the stroke, you could have a defective part. 

Integrating a magnetostrictive sensor into a position-sensor-ready cylinder provides continuous, high-precision position feedback for hydraulic tooling. By using a linear position sensor such as Ametek’s 953I, the control system can easily reject parts, set warnings, or trigger faults with only one sensor. With IO-Link connectivity, minimal wiring is required, so installation is quick and simple.