Sensing Ferrous Metals: AchieVe Series From AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect's latest products, the AchieVe inductive proximity sensors, have been added to the product lineup, offering an affordable solution for use in metal detection at an industrial scale.
AutomationDirect, a company with a wide range of manufactured and distributed components for nearly every aspect of industrial automation, has recently announced the addition of the AchieVe Series inductive proximity sensors to its product lineup. The new AchieVe value line of sensors, including the AchieVe PAE, PAM, and PAK series, is set to offer great value for use in general industrial applications.
AutomationDirect’s AchieVe series inductive proximity sensor models. Image used courtesy of AutomationDirect
Key Features of the AchieVe Sensor Series
The new AchieVe series inductive proximity sensors from AutomationDirect are designed from stainless steel for reliable and durable performance. The sensors cater to diverse industrial needs, available in 8, 12, and 18 mm barrel sizes. Designed to operate with either DC or AC voltage, the new series of proximity sensors are also available in both PNP and NPN logic models with N.O. outputs, providing a configuration for most control situations.
The sensors are also adaptable when it comes to installation, with models available in flush, semi-flush, and non-flush mount styles with a simple termination style of a quick disconnect of its axial cable. An M8 QD connector is provided for the 8 mm models, and an M12 QD connector for 12 and 18 mm models, and for selected PNP models, the 2-meter pigtail cable style simplifies the wiring installation of the sensors by offering convenient options.
The inductive proximity sensors are also able to withstand high pressures of up to 500 bar (7251 psi) and a high-temperature range of between 140 to 230 °C, making them applicable even in extreme industrial environments. To add to the sensors’ durability, they have a protection rating of up to IP69K, and some of the models in the series come with resistant coating for weld slag and Factor 1 correction.
Challenges With Metal Sensing
For many applications, sensing the presence of an object alone isn’t sufficient. The product must be scanned for the presence of metal, either to indicate a certain product category or the presence of an assembled screw, or to protect equipment, like in the case of lumber milling where nails may be present in the trees. Inductive proximity sensors rely on the change in a projected magnetic field which indicates the presence of an inductive metal object.
Since these field projections are powered by low-voltage signals, the field is relatively weak. The sensing distance and the detection capability of non-ferrous metals are both quite low. The AchieVe series of sensors has a detection range of only up to 8 mm, depending on the model, which is quite standard for inductive sensors. Both flush and non-flush sensing elements ensure that the sensor can be mounted as close to the scanned product as possible to obtain high-quality results.
Budget-Friendly Part Catalog
When it comes to offering affordability, the AchieVe series sensors are a cost-effective sensing solution, with a price point starting at only around $10. This, together with its IP67 rating, comes with a lifetime warranty from AutomationDirect, giving users peace of mind and confidence to use it.
With the technology in metal sensing and detection constantly improving, the emergence of durable and efficient designs of inductive proximity sensors is also becoming significant. AutomationDirect’s AchieVe series inductive proximity sensor brings with it features that will position it as a top choice for customers seeking affordable, durable, and flexible metal sensing solutions for general-purpose industrial applications.
