Precision sensor manufacturer Micro-Epsilon has introduced a range of inductive displacement sensors that monitor the clamping position in machine tools. The sensors are extremely compact and robust (IP67), while providing high temperature stability and high repeatability, even in harsh machine tool environments.
Image Credit: Micro-Epsilon
When developing new machine tools, key requirements include faster machining speeds, higher precision and higher productivity. However, if the cutting tool is incorrectly positioned in these high performance machines, this can lead to machining errors, damage to the machine or personal injury.
The new induSENSOR LVP-25-Z20 and induSENSOR LDR-14-Z20 from Micro-Epsilon are available with measuring ranges of 25 mm and 14 mm, respectively. The cylindrical sensors are integrated into the release device to detect the clamping stroke of the drawbar (i.e. shaft, spindle), which passes through the centre of the sensor. The measuring object is a target ring which is attached to the drawbar. This ‘through-bore’ sensor design requires the minimum amount of installation space compared to more traditional clamping position sensors.
Due to their extremely compact design – the LDR-14-Z20 has a diameter of just 13 mm and a length of 26 mm – the sensors can be integrated to a wide variety of different tools. The sensors provide an analogue output based on the target ring position that corresponds to the stroke movement of the drawbar when clamping the tool. The sensor provides continuous monitoring of the drawbar position and therefore removes the need to mechanically set the switching point and eliminates complex, time-consuming adjustments when changing the tool.
The miniature sensor controller can either be accommodated at the point of measurement or mounted in a control cabinet. Due to their high resolution (6-7 µm), thermal stability and operating temperature range, up to 125 °C as standard (higher on request), the sensors contribute significantly to meeting the ever-increasing requirements for high precision and availability of machine tools.
Glenn Wedgbrow, Business Development Manager at Micro-Epsilon comments: “The induSENSOR LVP and LDR sensors measure on a continuous, non-contact basis and are therefore wear-free. The sensors also offer large measuring ranges [25 mm and 14 mm] relative to their short design, which simplifies their integration into release devices on clamping systems where space can be limited. Also, compared to alternative methods of measuring the clamping stroke – which often comprise of multiple proximity sensors and complex mechanical control disks of various shapes and sizes – our solution is a much more elegant one that consists of an individual measurement sensor, which simplifies integration and significantly reduces the rotating mass on the drawbar. The sensors also offer higher temperature stability and higher resolution, linearity and repeatability than competing clamping stroke measurement systems.”
For more information on the induSENSOR LVP/LDR range, please visit: www.micro-epsilon.co.uk or call the Micro-Epsilon sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email [email protected]