Balluff Simplifies Position Detection With New BMF T-Slot Magnetic Sensors

Balluff has created a new line of T-slot magnetic sensors designed to take accurate position measurements across applications. The BMF line has all of the advantages of similar magnetic sensors, such as non-contact detection, but also features a versatile design that can fit numerous user needs and perform high-speed position detection. 

Balluff’s BMF sensor pictured inside a gripper housing (black wires and sensors) to determine the gripper’s precise position during motion. Image used courtesy of Balluff

What Is a T-Slot Magnetic Sensor?

In general, T-slot magnetic sensors are designed to determine the position of hydraulic or pneumatic sensors during operation. The sensors are two-part systems; one is a magnet that attaches to the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, and the other is the T-slot sensor that fits around the sensor. As the cylinder changes position, the change in the magnetic field is measured, and thus, the position of the cylinder is calculated.

The primary advantage of the T-slot system is that it is a non-contact positioning mechanism. The small magnet is semi-permanently mounted to the cylinder, and the T-slot does not contact the magnet or the cylinder. This means there are no wear surfaces, friction points, or added drag from the detector system.

The BMF T-Slot magnetic sensor is capable of precise position detection at high speeds. Image used courtesy of Balluff

Balluff’s BMF T-Slot Magnetic Sensor

Balluff's BMF T-slot magnetic sensors have all of the advantages of non-contact sensing, as well as other key features. In particular, they are capable of measuring position, even at high speeds, which can be a challenge for some sensors. The sensor's 3000 Hz switching speed capability means rapid positioning and increased throughput in manufacturing. The sensor requires very little maintenance because it has no wear surfaces and friction points to lubricate.

The BMF line of sensors is designed to be versatile and mount to many styles and sizes of pneumatic cylinders. Unlike some magnetic sensors, the BMF sensors can automatically detect axial and radial magnets. Sensing needs do not have to be determined after the system is built; the BMF sensors can be added to existing systems or installed in several ways during new system design. 

Robotic grippers, for example, may use small pneumatic cylinders, which can make it difficult to measure their position. With the BMF T-slot sensor system, these small cylinders can also be detected. The t-slots allow the sensor to slide into the detection position while maintaining the proper standoff from the magnet itself. Also, this makes assembly and disassembly easy to perform, simplifying troubleshooting applications, prototyping operations, and other such tasks. 

The BMF T-slot magnetic sensor is mounted on a pneumatic cylinder to detect the cylinder’s piston position. Image used courtesy of Balluff

Non-contact Position Detection

Perhaps the most common use of T-slot magnetic sensors is in robotics and robot manufacturing. Precise positioning of pneumatic sensors is required, and the T-slot mechanism works well in these applications. The sensors are placed in a feedback loop so the controller can read the position and adjust valves accordingly. 

Materials handling applications, such as lifts, tilting ramps, precision construction equipment for leveling the ground, dump truck beds, and many other similar devices will also benefit from Balluff’s BMF T-slot magnetic sensors.