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. The sensor emits a laser beam to a target and receives the reflected light. Based on the change in the position where the light is received (light entry angle), the sensor can detect the change in the distance to the target (height or position of the target).
Inductive proximity sensors can only detect metal targets. They do not detect non-metal targets such as plastic, wood, paper, and ceramic. Unlike photoelectric sensors, this allows a inductive proximity sensor to detect a metal object through opaque plastic. An inductive proximity sensor has four components: the coil, oscillator, detection circuit, and output circuit. One of the advantages of inductive proximity sensors is that they are very accurate compared to other technologies. Another is that they have a high switching rate. Further, they are capable of working in harsh environmental conditions.
Inductive proximity sensors enable the detection, without contact, of metal objects at distances of up to 60 mm. Their range of applications is very extensive and includes : the monitoring of machine parts (cams, mechanical stops, etc.), monitoring the flow of metal parts, counting, etc. Sensor with Analog Voltage Output (e.g., 0 V … 10 V) This sensor type is another type of inductive analog sensor that detects a physical variable—e.g., the distance from a metallic object—and provides this measured value converted as an analog voltage value at the analog output
