Electrical/Electronics Spotlight: Sensors & Transducers (cont.)

Miniature sensors. The VS2 series self-contained, convergent-mode sensors have a low profile, enabling them to function in confined areas previously accessible by remote or fiberoptic devices. The visible red sensing beam has a 15 or 30mm range. Banner Engineering Corp, Minneapolis, MN. Free info--Circle 640. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-640

Low-light image sensors. With high quantum efficiency from UV to near IR frequencies, the S7986 and S7987 back-thinned frame transfer CCD area image sensors are designed for high-speed operation, without the need for external shutters. Hamamatsu Corporation, Bridgewater, NJ. Free info--Circle 641.

http://www.OneRS.net/102df-641

Solid-state position sensor. The Quadrant Large Area Avalanche Photodiode (LAAPD) combines a large active area with low light sensitivity. The 2x2 element array has an total active area of 18mm² with independent detector element signals. Advanced Photonix, Camarillo, CA. Free info--Circle 634. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-634

Geartooth speed sensor. With zero-speed sensing and self-adjusting range, the GS101202 uses a Hall-effect IC and an internal biasing magnet to sense rotational speed of ferrous gear-type targets. It does not require external signal processing. Cherry Electrical Products, Pleasant Prairie, WI. Free info--Circle 635. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-635

Gas pressure transducer. The Model 223 in-line, flow-through pressure tranducer employs variable capacitance technology to provide good zero stability and long-term reliability. It is almost immune to EMI/RFI with a high tolerance of system torsion and welding effects, and is able to withstand bake-out to 185°F without affecting calibration. This model is customizable with a variety of pressure and bar ranges. Setra Systems Inc, Boxborough, MA. Free info--Circle 636. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-636

Liquid level indicator. A remote-control continuous liquid level indicator senses liquid in closed containers and tanks, with remote and visual linear indication independent of the shape of the container. There is a constant indication of level inside the tank up to 0.25 in. resolution. The indicator can be connected directly to a PC board, and there are adjustable settings for high/low alarms. Output is 4-20 mA/0-10V of 0-100% output. Granzow Inc, Charlotte, NC. Free info--Circle 642. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-642

Flame sensor. The 5002 series system consists of UV self-check and IR frequency-based flame detectors. Equipped with an internal microcomputer which automatically adjusts sensitivity and allows a variety of signal outputs directly from the scanner, the sensor interfaces with PLC or PCs. Each sensor control is self-contained within the unit, eliminating the need for a wiring base, while saving space. GN Electronics Inc, Machesney Park, IL. Free info--Circle 645. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-645 

Pressure transducers. These FP2000 transducers are available to order online with over 20,000 custom configurations. The FP family includes gage, absolute vacuum, barometric, and wet/wet or wet/dry differential configurations, with as much as 0.1% accuracy. Sensotec Inc, Columbus, OH. Free info--Circle 653. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-653

Brushless torque sensor. For measuring torque on pulse tools with strong vibrations, Model BLRTSX brushless rotary torque sensor has 5V full-scale output to ensure accuracy over long cables, even in areas with high RFI emanating from other machinery. Mountz, San Jose, CA. Free info--Circle 654.

http://www.OneRS.net/102df-654

Electrical/Electronics Application

• Reduces Waste
• Recovers Profits

Syrup Recovery System

* For bottlers of soft drinks and other beverages, the Haselden Syrup Recovery System (SRS) recovers syrup left in the line between the bulk syrup tank and the mixer. This system reduces syrup waste, packaging waste and system downtime, as well as BOD surcharges.

* The heart of the SRS is a Barksdale Levelsite magnetic flag-type level indicator which automatically measures the amount of syrup left in the process to an accuracy of ±1/2 in. (±12.7 mm) and cuts off product flow to the containers. The flag indicator can be read from as far away as 100 ft. from almost any angle, even when measuring clear syrup. Rotating flags -- bright red below the liquid level and white above -- rise and fall with a ring-magnet float within the float housing.

* Flag-type indicators are able to furnish a continuous, reliable level indication without external power. As a non-intrusive device, they are intrinsically safe. They are getting a lot of interest from the food and beverage industry, and with power plant managers for level measurement in feedwater heaters, condensate hot water, lube tanks, deaeration, hot wells and acid/chemical tanks.

* According to Haselden, In a typical bottling operation an SRS saved 30 gallons of syrup per day for annual savings (at $4.00/gal.) of $31,200, plus BOD charges of approximately $7,800 per year.

Barksdale Inc, Los Angeles, CA. Free info--Circle 655. http://www.OneRS.net/102df-655