The inductive proximity sensor can be used to detect metallic targets only. The main components of the inductive proximity sensor are coil, oscillator, detector and the output circuit.
The coil generates the high frequency magnetic field in front of the face. When the metallic target comes in this magnetic field it absorbs some of the energy. Hence the oscillator field is affected. This is detected by the detector. if the oscillation amplitude reaches a certain threshold value the output switches.
The inductive proximity sensor works better with ferromagnetic targets as they absorb more energy compare to non Ferromagnetic materials. Hence operating distance for sensor is more for Ferromagnetic targets.
The advantages of inductive proximity sensors are
The coil generates the high frequency magnetic field in front of the face. When the metallic target comes in this magnetic field it absorbs some of the energy. Hence the oscillator field is affected. This is detected by the detector. if the oscillation amplitude reaches a certain threshold value the output switches.
The inductive proximity sensor works better with ferromagnetic targets as they absorb more energy compare to non Ferromagnetic materials. Hence operating distance for sensor is more for Ferromagnetic targets.
The advantages of inductive proximity sensors are
- They are very accurate compared to other technologies
- Have high switching rate
- Can work in harsh environmental conditions
- It can detect only metallic targets
- Operating range may be limited
- Proximity detection
