Linear measuring
Hi friends,
Linear encoders are a technology that has been used in industrial automation systems for a long time. They are primarily divided into two main groups:
Analog linear electronic encoders: These devices use a fiber carbon alloy strip and a silver-copper alloy grating to read values. Unlike digital scale-based encoders, which use optical scale technology, magnetic scale technology is used to provide precise linear measurements. However, because of their mechanical structure, they must "touch" the measurement surface. Over time, this may cause wear and deformation, and friction can cause corrosion.
Digital linear encoders: These systems consist of a linear magnetic material and a read head that is fed without contact from a magnetic tape. This measurement principle is permanent, very robust, and can provide the highest resolution of up to 0.2 microns. Digital indicators are not affected by environmental factors or coolant adhesion, and the scale is made of metal, making it highly resistant to oscillations and shocks. The electronic devices integrated into the sensor head convert the sinusoidal signal into an HTL or TTL signal, which can be read by any standard control unit and optionally transferred to third-party indicators.
Digital linear encoders are suitable for controlled tool machines such as milling machines, lathes, and other potential applications in many industries, such as industrial robot systems or precise applications in XY position tables. They are sold with a guide bar with rod end bearings and other screw and clamp accessories for easy assembly.
Not all linear sensors have the same digital readings. Many linear measurement systems are based on optical principles, but carbon-based reading methods are different and may provide either an analog value or change their resistance like classic potentiometers.
In conclusion, the device model that can read each scale model is different. Devices that can read digital linear encoders quickly and countably may read analog encoders with analog inputs. If you have a PLC system, it is useful to check which input types your device has and select a product accordingly.
Linear encoders can also be called linear potentiometers. The biggest advantage of digital encoders is that they are contactless, so their lifespan is very long, but if there is an electrical outage, they cannot store their position information. This only applies to locations that can be moved manually, not to machines such as lathes.
The resolution level of linear potentiometers depends on the reading device (how many bits?). The resolution accuracy of digital encoders is based on the read tape (0.05mm). Reading speeds depend on the reader, not the encoder.
Each model has its own page with detailed descriptions of feed voltages, output types, input types, and operation modes, as well as user manuals.
Note that like all the products on our website, our electronic encoders are designed to be used in machines in the industrial automation sector. They are also produced with galvanic isolation for potential parasitic sources such as frequency drives, power supplies, and induction motors found in the same environment.