Balluff Measuring System with Siemens Controller Provides Accurate Positioning Up to 250 Meters

Balluff’s newest magnetostrictive linear position sensor provides absolute
position information over distances of up to 250 meters when used as part of
the Balluff position measuring system.

The profile-style sensor can be configured for measuring ranges between 5
and 250 meters with a repeat accuracy up to ±0.5 mm. This long-range
measuring capability makes it ideal for applications on traveling cranes,
overhead cranes, avoidance controls, and crane and trolley movement.

The position measuring system comes with a linear position sensor with a
Profinet interface, several magnets, and software function blocks for the
Siemens PLC.

The magnets are installed along the track of the crane, with their position
read by the sensor installed on the crane itself. Information about the
position of the magnets relative to the sensor is sent to the controller
which calculates the absolute coordinates of the crane position.

This system isn’t susceptible to contamination and can stand up to harsh
environments with an IP67 rating, making it more dependable than solutions
built on laser sensors and other measurement tools which can be easily
impeded by dirt and dust.

“There are several options for measuring long distances, including encoders
and lasers, but most plants and mills are really dirty, and that environment
can impact the usability of those tools. But you don’t have to worry about
that with this system. The sensor and magnets work without fail, even with
caked on dirt. This is an effective and low maintenance solution,” said
Chris Heberlein, director of sales, automation and technology for Balluff.

And like all Balluff magnetostrictive linear position sensors, this system
features high repeatability and is wear-free thanks to non-contact
measurement.

For more information, visit
https://www.balluff.com/local/us/products/new-products-overview/product-news
/long-distance-positioning-system/

About Balluff Inc.: Balluff Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Balluff GmbH,
Neuhausen, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of inductive,
photoelectric, vision, capacitive and magnetic sensors as well as linear
position transducers, RFID systems, and networking products. Balluff
products for OEM and factory floor solutions are used to control, regulate,
automate, assemble, position, and monitor manufacturing, assembly, and
packaging sequences for industries including metalworking, automotive,
plastics, material handling, wood processing, aerospace, alternative energy,
medical, electrical, and electronics.