Inductive distance sensors

Inductive distance sensors, also called – among other things – eddy current sensors, enable highly accurate, contactless, wear-free position measurement. All electrically conductive materials are suitable for use as a measured medium. External influences, such as electromagnetic fields, oils and water, do not affect the measurement result, as the magnetic field lines of the sensor pass through non-metallic objects unhindered.
Measurement principle:
Located in the sensor head is a coil that is supplied with a high-frequency alternating current.This coil generates an electromagnetic field. This electromagnetic field occurs field on the front side of the sensor and induces a voltage in the measurement object located in the electromagnetic field.This induced voltage generates a current flow, also known as an eddy current. This current flow generates a magnetic field that counteracts the magnetic field of the sensor. The superposition of the primary and secondary fields in the coil causes the coil impedance to change. The evaluation of this change yields an output signal that corresponds to and is proportional to the distance between the sensor surface and the measurement object.
The difference to proximity switches
In contrast to inductive distance sensors with analog signal output, inductive proximity switches have a switching output. You can find these sensors in diribo under "Proximity Switches".... Read more