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What is an inducitive proximity sensor?  

An inductive proximity sensor is a sensing device that detects metal targets using electromagnetic energy and without contact. The sensing range of an inductive proximity sensor changes based on the type of metal being detected. Since non-metallic substances such as dirt and liquid do not interfere with detection, an inductive proximity sensor operates in wet or dirty conditions.

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How does an inductive proximity sensor work?

An inductive proximity sensor creates an electromagnetic field (depicted as the yellow circles in the drawings below) in the vicinity of the face of the sensor to create a detection zone.  A detection occurs and the sensor switches on when a metal target in the vicinity of the sensor disturbs that field and reaches the Operate Point.  The sensor switches off when the target moves away from the sensor and reaches the Release Point. 

Since non-metallic substances such as dirt and liquid do not interfere with detection, an inductive proximity sensor operates in wet or dirty conditions.  As a result, an inductive proximity sensor does not need to come into physical contact with the target itself.  

How a capacitive proximity sensor works

How to select an inductive proximity sensor?

 

Deciding which sensor to purchase and selecting the right one for your application can be a confusing task. However, the decision is important and the successful application of the sensors depends on the selection of the appropriate technology for the application. 

Visit our page to learn how to select the right sensor.

Inductive proximity sensor components

  • Connection interface: A sensor may be equipped with a factory installed cable, cordset, or built-in pin connector.
  • Sensing face: The electromagnetic field created by the sensor emanates from here
  • Mounting nuts: Supplied with each sensor
  • Sensor endbell: Indicator LEDs typically appear in this área of the sensor
  • Sensor housing: This portion of the sensor provides the means for mounting and protects sensor internals
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Features and limitations of inductive proximity sensors

Features:

  • Immune to dirty, greasy adverse environmental conditions.
  • Can detect lightweight or small objects that cannot be detected by mechanical limit switches
  • High switching rate for rapid response to object counting application
  • Can detect metallic targets through non-metallic barriers (i.e. glass, plastic, etc.)
  • Long operational life with virtually unlimited operating cycles
  • Solid state output provides a “bounce free” contact input signal to solid state logic devices

Limitations:

  • Limited sensing range – up to 4’’ maximum
  • Detects only metal objects

What specialty inductive proximity sensor types and features are important to understand?

Analog sensors – specialty switches that provide an electrical output signal that varies in proportion to the position of the target within its sensing range. These sensors typically have current (4-20mA) and/or voltage (0-10V) output circuits to interface with standard analog logic input circuits.

 

Ferrous-only sensors – specialty switches that detect only ferrous metals such as steel, iron, nickel, and cobalt. A typical application for this sensor type is a work cell where cutting tools, tool pallets, and fixtures must be detected for proper workpiece manipulation. These sensors detect ferrous tools while ignoring aluminum.

Programmable sensors – specialty switches that can be programmed to solve a wide variety of applications. In these devices, sensor characteristics such as sensing range, output type, timing delays, shielding, and detection zone characteristics can be customized to the needs of each specific application location on a machine.

 

High current output sensors – specialty switches that are rated for switching high DC output current loads.

Discover Eaton’s most powerful inductive proximity sensors

E57P/PS/G Series

For demanding sensing applications in areas too small for standard length units, the E57PS Performance Short Body series is an ideal solution delivering unmatched high noise immunity and short-circuit protection.

Unique features and benefits

  • Shorter body for smaller install areas
  • Unmatched high noise immunity
  • Stainless steel body
  • Short-circuit protection
  • 360-degree LED indicator
  • Laser-engraved label
  • Operating temperature range –25 to 70 °C
 
 

E52Q Cube Series

The E52Q Cube sensor is a rugged, robust, long-range inductive sensor, featuring convenient auto-configuring outputs that automatically detect an NPN or PNP output configurations.

Unique features and benefits

  • Long inductive proximity ranges available (up to 40 mm sensing distance)
  • Four-wire DC models have complementary outputs (1NO-1NC)
  • Robust design featuring vibration and impact absorbing potting compound
  • Ideal for extreme temperatures or high pressure washdown environments
  • Four-wire DC models use auto-configure technology, which allows the sensor to automatically adapt for NPN or PNP

E59 Accuprox Analog Series

Eaton's AccuProx sensors are built with robust stainless-steel barrels, shock-resistant front caps, polycarbonate end bells and impact-absorbing potting compound to survive the most hostile industrial environments.

Unique features and benefits

  • High output resolution and repeatability for applications requiring precision sensing performance
  • Robust design ideal for extreme temperature or environments with high-pressure washdown
  • High noise immunity of 20 V per meter prevents many problems associated with electrical noise
  • The 360-degree, dual-color output LED indicator provides easy viewing and simplified machine troubleshooting

Capacitive proximity sensor FAQs

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What is the difference between a capacity and inductive proximity?

Inductive proximity sensors are used for non-contact detection of metallic objects. Capacitive proximity sensors are used for non-contact detection of both metallic and nonmetallic objects such as liquid, plastic, paper and more.

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