What are potentiometers?
Potentiometers are used for measuring linear position or displacement.
Distance measurements can be performed with various sensors and depending on various factors it can be determined which measuring method and implementation is the right one. For linear distance measurements up to 1,5 meters, use can be made of potentiometers of magnetostrictive position sensors. For longer distances, draw-wire sensors offer a better solution.
There are two types of position sensors for measuring short linear displacements:
- Potentiometers
- Magnetostrictive position sensors (for non-contact position measurement)
Potentiometers measure the potential difference between two points. Depending on the distance, the resistance changes, which changes the output signal. The distance can be determined using this output signal.
At magnetostrictive displacement transducers the linear distance is determined using a magnet. The sensor generates a short current signal and sends it over the conductor. When this signal reaches the magnet a short signal is reflected which is again recorded by the sensor. The distance is derived from the time difference between sending and receiving the signals.
Both measurement methods have their own advantages. For example, potentiometers generally a more favorable purchase price. However, these sensors also require maintenance sooner, while magnetostrictive measuring systems have virtually no maintenance costs because the measurement is non-contact.
Long linear distance measurement with draw wire sensors
When measuring a long distance, a pull-wire sensor can be used. With this sensor, a wire is attached to the object to be measured and when it moves, the pull-wire unrolls further. By measuring how far the pull-wire has been unrolled, the distance is determined.
Applications
A position sensor or displacement sensor can be used for many applications where linear displacements need to be measured. In industrial applications this can involve measuring the position of a valve, determining the position of a piston on a cylinder or measuring the thickness of an object when it passes between a roller.
Other applications outside the industry include measuring the position of an adjustable floor at a swimming pool, or measuring the distance at an extendable work platform at an aerial work platform.
Dexman
We at Dexman know better than anyone that the right information is the most important thing. Because if a measurement is not correct, the solution is of no use to you. This applies not only to the solutions we offer, but also to the way in which we communicate. At Dexman, we stand for quality, service and solution orientation. In this, it is important to provide the right information, offer a good solution and be honest with each other.
Dexman is a supplier with a wide range of load cells, weighing platforms, pallet scales, crane scales, force sensors, torque meters, measuring amplifiers, pressure sensors en displacement sensors. You can contact us for standard versions, but also for custom-made components and complete weighing solutions. The choice of the right components usually starts with extensive advice.
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