Metal face inductive sensors

The metal face sensor product line from ifm efector is designed and tested to provide reliable position indication in the toughest welding and stamping applications.

The sensor line is designed and tested to improve its life-in-application in welding and stamping processes. The sensor’s stainless steel construction withstands damage from physical impact caused by part-loading in manufacturing cells. To test the sensor’s durability, ifm engineers developed an impact test that simulates real-world metalforming conditions. In the test fixture, the sensor is able to withstand over 500,000 continuous impacts. The metal face sensor’s high durability extends the sensor’s life in application by a factor of 15 compared to plastic or teflon face sensors.

The sensor is further protected with a high-temperature weld slag-resistant coating that prevents weld slag from adhering. In a welding fixture, weld slag typically adheres to a sensing face. To remove the slag, abrasive cleaning techniques are used such as wire brushes and tools, which can damage the sensor. To test the sensor’s resistance to abrasion, ifm engineers developed a test to replicate the weld slag cleaning process. In the rotary test fixture, ifm metal face sensors are placed in direct contact with rotating wire wheel brushes that continuously pass over the sensing faces. The metal face sensors can withstand more than 1 million wire-brush passes and still provide 100% of their sensing range.

These sensors feature a 360° ring LED design for status indication, laser-etched part numbers and weld field immune electronics. Sensors are available in standard housing styles that include M12, M18 and M30 tubular housings.