NCTE sensors are designed to form part of the drive chain as a ‘plug and play’ component complete with integrated signal conditioning and with no other components required. With several sized model options available torque measurement, from a zero reference, can range from 1 to 10,000 Nm.

NCTE names its measurement technology ‘magnetostriction’ which is based on the magnetostrictive measurement principle. Simply put, this is a physical process where the length of a body changes under the influence of an external magnetic field. By reversing this principle NCTE’s sensors employ encoded magnetic fields and, as integral parts of the shaft, measure the miniscule dimensional changes directly induced on the driven shaft as torque or other physical forces. This contactless, wear free and low maintenance technology tracks these changes in real time with excellent stability over long periods of time. The sensors employ at least two opposed magnetic fields to allow error free use where external magnetic fields such as EMC interference are present – or where mechanical influences such as strong vibration and shock conditions cause shaft distortions. With standard protection class options of IP50 and IP65, the sensors can operate in high humidity, water, oils, and aggressive liquids used, for instance, in washdown situations.

The sensors have a standard operating temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C, a torque measurement accuracy in the region of +/- 0.5% and a shaft speeds range from 2,500 rpm for the larger sized models to 10,000 rpm for the smaller. Output frequency is 2,500 Hz with output options via a single electrical connector including 0 – 10 V, 4…20 mA, CANbus and USB; the USB interfaced models are supplied with free of charge PC software that enables direct data display via a GUI with the possibility to export data for detailed analysis. NCTE’s custom design service is offered across all model ranges to facilitate use in extreme environments.

NCTE applies its torque measurement technology across all areas of industry and research from controlling the power of e-bikes to preventative maintenance on wind turbines, and from precision torque measurement for motorsports to safety monitoring on robotic and automated medical equipment.

A particular area that demonstrates the technology and applied use of NCTE’s PTO torque sensors is that of mobile agricultural machinery where power and torque and/or bending moment and shear measurement can be optimised. Easily integrated between the PTO shaft of tractor and connected machinery such as powered harrows, spreaders, bailing presses etc., the sensors help to maintain the highest process efficiency and provide the basis for safe operation, maximum reliability, and preventative maintenance to avoid costly failures and repairs. In this application area NCTE’s 7000 series torque sensors can measure bi-directional torque in the region of 3000 to 5000 Nm at speeds up to 3600 rpm. The 7000 series can be simply flange mounted or supplied with a wide choice of optional geared shaft and bush adapter that suit most common tractor, harvester and other farm machinery PTOs. Test bench mounts are also available for research tasks.

As a supplier from component level to complete instrumentation systems and with knowledgeable technical staff on hand to assist with measurement solutions, Ixthus Instrumentation offers a complete technical sales and support service for NCTE’s wide range of torque sensors and also has distribution partnerships with several global sensor technology leaders for force, torque and vibration measurement. For further information please call +44 (0) 1327 353437, email info@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.

Specially designed for measuring the steep forces that occur in hand operated presses as well as automated presses, Burster’s 8552 and 8451 series load cells measure the compression forces between the circular contact surfaces of plunger and tool. With an overall height of less than 50 mm the compact and robust load cells provide measurement ranges from 0 to 100 N and up to 0 to 100 kN. With simple mounting on the press-ram the load cells suit stamp borings of 10 to 20 mm with H7 tolerancing. Within each product series a wide choice of load measurement ranges are available with load pins and hole diameter interchangeability a key feature for flexibility and easy product changeover. The standard model 8552 suits most manual presses up to 25kN and includes mechanical overload protection.

For press and similar load measurement applications where a displacement sensor is required, various options are available with linear measurement ranges from 0 to 10 mm up to 0 to 150 mm. Offering long-life, high durability and precision, these potentiometric sensors provide full scale nonlinearity specifications of up to 0.05 % and a typical resolution of 0.01 mm. The rods are guided in long-life, low friction sliding bearings with a stainless-steel ball-type probe tip. Optional probe tip followers, spring return mechanisms and a comprehensive selection of mounting accessories make installation straightforward.
There are three options for measurement electronics that provide varying levels of performance and cost from the ‘Plug and Work’ ForceMaster 9110 series to the intermediate DigiForce® 9311 and the comprehensively equipped DigiForce® 9307.

For many press and stamping tasks the ForceMaster 9110 2-channel force/displacement controller will provide excellent value. In its basic configuration, force/time data is monitored and with an optional linear displacement sensor force/time/displacement can be added for stroke monitoring. Auto-configuration with sensor recognition via a smart card system named ‘Card & Go’ makes setup straightforward with the load cell data transferred to the unit to allow even small production runs to be quickly and conveniently arranged. This basic control unit features a two-line LCD display for force and displacement with OK and NOK indicator lights. An integrated acoustic signalling device also indicates pass or fail with the ability to change tone and volume allowing several 9100’s to be located close together in a production shop. The unit also includes a USB/RS232 interface and free of charge configuration, parameterisation and evaluation software to allow set-up and monitoring of the press though a PC. A USB memory card can also be used for storing and transferring data as well assisting evaluation and documentation by a remote PC. The 9110 ForceMaster also features a PLC sequence control function that can be used for automated tasks such as pneumatic workpiece clamping, automatic parts removal etc.

The mid-range 2-channel DigiForce 9311 adds PROFIBUS, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP connectivity to press operation and monitoring. With Burster’s TEDS automatic sensor recognition and a 3.5" colour touchscreen display, up to 16 programs may be stored and retrieved. User configurable IO can be used to assist automated press functions as well as alarms. The force/displacement controller can handle all worker, admin and identification data and may used to evaluate forward and return stroke curves. With live sensor values sent to the fieldbus interface, synchronous logging of measurement data using Burster’s DigiControl PC software allows complete certainty and documentation records for multichannel press applications.

Bursters DigiForce 9307 is aimed at high-end press machine applications where other processes require control and monitoring. The comprehensively equipped unit can offer advanced features for the most exacting manual press applications where necessary. With all the features of the 9311, the 9307 adds an EtherCAT fieldbus and a PLC interface for up to 6 measurement channels with 0.05% measurement accuracy at a high-speed 10 kHz measurement rate. Up to 128 measurement programs may be stored and a large 5.7“ LCD colour graphic display provides visualisation for measurement curve and computed evaluation results whilst a numerical keyboard offers straightforward parameter and parts entry. The 9307 also features maths functions, independent and variable start/stop logic and its suitability for process monitoring extends to applications such as joining, riveting, caulking, checking torque curves and more.

Ixthus instrumentation Ltd provides comprehensive technical sales and support service for Burster’s complete range of measurement solutions from component level or for complete instrumentation systems.

The DSC digital strain gauge module, supplied as a single channel PCB format package or combined in customised enclosures for multiple sensor measurement tasks, provides up to 500 readings per second. With a user programmable signal filter, the module is suitable for 4-wire bridge measurement with a nominal 5 V excitation voltage, and bridge resistance from 320 to 5000 Ohms (350 Ohms typical) with a typical sensitivity 2.5 mV/V. Standard single and multichannel modules are available for RS232 and RS485 output with ASCII or Modbus protocols, or CAN output using the CAN 2.0B protocol Single modules require an external 12 V DC power source at 450 mW typical for a 350 Ohm bridge.

The USB interfaced version, (DSCUSB) is powered from its USB port and a simple ‘plug and measure’ feature allows direct connection to a PC, appearing as a virtual COM port. Where multiple USB ports are available, multi-channel use is possible. At 200 samples per second at 18 bits noise free resolution, the module outputs an ASCII protocol. In combination with the software toolkit, the module can cater for correction of non-linear sensors. The compact ABS plastic enclosure (71 x 51 x 20 mm) has an IP50 rating and is also available with a DIN-rail mounting kit.

Both DSC and DSCUSB digital strain gauge modules share common specifications for temperature stability, linearity and resolution. Detailed specification sheets are available from Ixthus Instrumentation who can assist UK and Ireland customers with application engineering and customised system integration for multi-channel measurement tasks.

Ixthus represents global sensor technology leaders like Strainsert Inc. for force, torque and vibration measurement. Its knowledgeable technical staff are on hand to assist with measurement solutions, providing a complete sales and support service at component level or for complete instrumentation systems. For further information please call +44 (0) 1327 353437, email info@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.

The technology offers many advantages other non-contact sensors including superior accuracy, robustness and a generally more compact stroke to overall length. Furthermore, the interfacing electronics offers high EMC protection and adaptability for a wide range of electrical I/O options to flexibly suit customer requirements.

The sensor boasts impressive environmental specifications. The operating temperature range is specified up to -40° C to +125° C. Full specifications are available in an Ixthus datasheet – available on request or download here, and full technical and application support is of course available from Ixthus.

Ixthus Instrumentation’s ILT series is offered in measurement stroke lengths of 25 mm and 50 mm, then 50 mm stroke increments up to 300 mm with 100 mm increments to 600 mm. The sensor is available with steel or plastic 8 mm diameter rod ends or M8 female threads at both ends. The minimum distance between rod ends for the longest (600 mm) stroke option is 810 mm whilst the 25 mm stroke version has a 185 mm dimension. The standard electrical interfacing option is 2 m screened cable. OEM customers can specify custom stroke length, and alternative mountings or electrical interfacing on application to Ixthus.

For further information on the new ILT series, please call +44 (0) 1327 353437, email [email=info@ixthus.co.uk%20]info@ixthus.co.uk [/email]or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.

The new RF609 Wi-Fi is a rechargeable battery-powered device supplied as a complete system with mains charger, cables, PC software and a detailed operation manual. The device is available in two measurement versions allowing a range of inner diameter measurements to be made: 9 to 19 mm or 16 to 48 mm diameter with maximum bore length of 139 and 143 mm respectively. Both probes feature the 48 mm diameter main controller, battery and Wi-Fi housing with an extended shaft that houses the laser triangulation sensor scanning head. A 16 mm diameter shaft facilitates straightforward collet mounting on the CNC.

An uncomplicated set-up procedure includes software download and initial wired USB connection to interface the probe followed by a simple probe calibration routine that sets the probe rotation speed, calibration diameter and tolerance parameters.

The RF609 series is also available as a self-powered device with a built-in slip ring assembly for power input and data signal output. The ultra-compact probe head has been well-proven in special custom-made equipment developed by Riftek for specific component measurement – sometimes used in conjunction with linear and rotary translation positioners to allow, for instance, scanning pipes, bushes, stepped and tapered holes and tubes etc. The principle has also been applied to special debris inspection equipment for small diameter holes where traditional vision systems can be troublesome.

The new RF609 Wi-Fi series is part of Riftek’s comprehensive range of 2D laser scanners, laser triangulation sensors, speed and length sensors, railway and other measurement instrumentation systems. Ixthus Instrumentation works closely with Riftek and many other leading instrumentation component manufacturers to supply sensors, transducers and complete systems for the measurement of displacement, force, torque and vibration.

The mechanical hardware, including the mounting frame and main housing with interfacing connectors for 24V DC power and fieldbus, forms part of the Riftek supplied system. As well as the probe software, an RS422-to-PROFINET IO module interfaces the 2D laser sensor to the PLC. For this set-up, the customer preferred to use a Siemens S7-1200 PLC although other manufacturer’s PLCs of choice could be used. GSD files and a comprehensive installation manual are also part of the supply. The probe software and the IO module combine to provide a data packet allowing the graphical display of the component being measured and a file output for use in further analysis software. The system supplied is fully adaptable for vertical or horizontal orientation to suit the customer’s project demands.

The final system is part of Riftek’s RF096 series custom build range that also includes other versions of the RF627 and other laser sensors that are specifically adapted as sub-systems for multiple measurement of customer’s component parts, typically as part of high-throughput manufacturing processes. Other examples of the RF096 sensor measurement series include fully machine integrated systems for welding lines and automated assembly measuring length, diameter, proximity etc., as well as component profile and thickness measurement, debris monitoring and more. Other systems can include manual operation with footswitches, hand controls or keypad/mouse activation to provide measured results recorded and displayed on a GUI as actual dimensions or as pre-set go or no-go values.

Ixthus Instrumentation Ltd provides a comprehensive sales and technical support service across Riftek’s comprehensive range of optoelectronic 2D and 3D laser measurement devices and systems from single components to complete systems such as the RF609 series. Ixthus also represents many other leading suppliers of non-contact sensing technologies for force, torque and vibration providing measurement application solutions across industry, research, military, aerospace, marine, oil and gas, mining, hoist and crane, automotive and more. For more information email info@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.

Burster’s 9251 Ethernet fieldbus controller and 9250 instrumentation amplifier systems enable the flexibility to mix the customer’s preferred strain gauge, potentiometer, voltage or TTL sensor technologies. With rapid sensor set-up using Burster’s TEDS push-button auto-sensing facility, this extends to a manufacturer-independent choice that allows the integration of sensor data for complete machines and systems where high precision and real-time measurement of torque, force, vibration, pressure, etc., is required for extensive condition monitoring and preventative maintenance purposes – a pre-requisite of Industry 4.0.

The 9251 Ethernet controller also offers an optional analogue input with a ±10 V range that may be used as an additional measurement channel – allowing up to nine sensors per Ethernet fieldbus interface. This same option includes a PLC I/O channel (DIN61131) that may be used for tare, tare reset, or limit reset etc.

The 9250 series instrumentation amplifier is based on 24-bit A to D conversion for highly accurate measurement with the sensor power provided by the amplifier module and no additional voltage source required. The amplifier may also be used independently of the fieldbus controller – its USB port and Burster’s DigiVision PC software may be used to configure autonomous measurement systems where a choice of sensor output and a range of other parameters can be called and set. As with many of its sensor products Burster can optionally supply these instrumentation amplifiers with DAkkS-certified calibration certificates.

The durable and compact 9251 and 9250 housings, finished in a polyamide material with metal support elements, feature DIN- rails mounting for convenient installation with the possibility to mount the amplifiers close to the sensor if required.

Burster’s full range of sensors and measurement solutions are fully supported in the UK by Ixthus Instrumentation as the German manufacturer’s distribution partner. For more information and complete application support, please visit www.ixthus.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1327 353437.

As part of the certification process, Ixthus received TRACE’s comprehensive anti-bribery compliance training and a verified due diligence report is available from the TRACE Intermediary Directory.

Kaman Precision Products Inc., is a USA based designer and manufacturer of precision, inductive Eddy current position measurement systems that are widely applied in military and aerospace industries, and in many other challenging application areas. With ISO 9001-200 certification and Satellite Industry Association (SiA) membership, Kaman is also a leading sensor specialist for cryogenics, high-vacuum, radiation tolerance and other severe environment position measurement tasks. Ixthus Instrumentation has a long association with Kaman providing a complete UK-based, engineer-to-engineer consultancy and service across Kaman’s comprehensive product range.

Ixthus works closely with Kaman and, over several years, has developed a high level of application expertise for its non-contact displacement sensor technologies – providing comprehensive sales and support at component level or for complete instrumentation systems. Ixthus’ knowledgeable technical staff are on hand to assist with measurement solutions – from the first enquiry, to supply and to after-sales support. For further information please call +44 (0) 1327 353437, email info@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk.