By introducing solid state sensors, an electronics company has solved the problem of fitting sensors to T-slots in pneumatic cylinders, which can be tricky when access is limited.
Fitting sensors to T-slots in pneumatic cylinders can be tricky when access is limited. Being small, cylinder sensors are difficult to seal against wet environments, and while the sensor sits flush in the cylinder, the cable can snag and break the switch. Sensor market leader ifm electronic has addressed these problems and more with their new MK51 series solid-state cylinder sensors.

The unique, patented snap-fit mechanism allows the user to fit the switch with only one hand.

Even in a vertical slot it stays put while you reach for a screwdriver to tighten it.

No special, easily lost tiny Allen key is needed either.

Most cylinder sensors are fixed at the end furthest from the cable, so snagging the cable lifts the switch out of the slot.

Not so with the ifm unit.

Cleverly, ifm have integrated the fixing at the cable end, and moulded the cable into the housing, so the forces applied to the cable can be orders of magnitude greater than anything on the market now.

Moulding the cable in this way means a seal of IP67 or better.

Versions for the food industry with washdown resistant materials are included in the range.

ifm's solid state cylinder sensors are supplied as three-wire PNP or NPN, or even as a two-wire sensor for replacement of Reed switches while offering an infinitely longer service life.

Not all cylinders have a T-slot.

ifm has thought of that with a range of fittings for all common types of cylinder.

ifm is committed to working closely with its customers to develop products which precisely match their needs, and the company provides expert, readily accessible technical support to help users maximise the benefits they gain from ifm products.