Sensata develops flexible and user-friendly Hall effect sensors

Sensata Technologies has introduced a brand-new line of well-sealed, easy-to-install modular Hall effect sensors into its extensive portfolio of sensor products. Suitable for a wide range of industrial applications – including robotic, industrial, manufacturing and material handling systems – Sensata’s ACW4 and TCW4 Hall effect sensors offer a compact, modular and flexible sensor solution. PIF explores the features and benefits of these cutting edge new sensors.

Sensata Hall effect sensors

Sensata Technologies, an industrial technology company and leading provider of sensors, recently announced the launch of its new ACW4 Single-Turn and TCW4 Multi-Turn Absolute Hall Effect Sensors. These advanced new sensors feature an over-moulded, two-part modular construction that provides engineers with exceptional design flexibility.

The sensing electronics are encased in a thermoplastic polyamide shell, while the separate activating magnet is external to the sensor assembly. This modular design results in a compact package only 50mm in diameter by a maximum 24mm thick, which allows designers to easily incorporate the ACW4 and TCW4 sensors into both new and existing systems.

An over-moulded housing completely encapsulates the electronics and seals the cable entry from exposure to the elements, making this IP67-rated sensor an ideal solution for robotic, industrial, manufacturing and material handling applications where dusty or wet conditions are common.

The next evolution in Hall effect sensors

To help save time and cost, Sensata offers a variety of engineered magnet holder accessories that developers can use instead of designing and testing their own. A variety of output types are available to ensure that the ACW4 or TWC4 sensors can interface with the most common controllers. Unlike typical Hall effect sensors, which rely on a shaft to operate, there are no moving parts in contact with each other; eliminating any potential wear or misalignment issues.

“The design of the ACW4 and TCW4 models reflects the evolution of Hall effect sensing technology in making packages more compact, environmentally resistant and easy to install,” says Scott Orlosky, Product Manager for Position Sensors at Sensata Technologies. “Since the thermoplastic is moulded at low pressure it can be economically produced in lower volume and has no seals or seams to leak.”

Features and benefits of ACW4 and TCW4 sensors

Sensata’s ACW4 and TCW4 Hall effect sensors offer a wide range of features and benefits, which we’ve collated here for a quick comparison.

ACW4 single-turn Hall effect sensor

• Robustness and excellent resistance to shocks / vibrations.
• Standard IP67 protection (IP69K option).
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C (-40 to +125°C option).
• Magnetic technology.
• Universal supply 5 to 30 VDC – analogue output interface.
• Available resolutions up to 12 bits per revolution.
• Also Available: PWM, CANopen and SSI outputs.
• Standard PVC or PUR cable output.

TCW4 multi-turn Hall effect sensor

• Rugged and excellent resistance to shock and vibration.
• Robust, proven magnetic technology.
• Environmentally resistant, IP 67 standard (IP69K option).
• Extended operating range from -20°C to +85°C.
• Uses universal supply 5 to 30 VDC – Analogue output.
• Available Resolution up to 12 bits per turn with up to 16 bits of turns counting.
• Variety of magnet holders available.

About Sensata Technologies

Sensata Technologies is one of the world’s leading suppliers of sensing, electrical protection, control and power management solutions with operations and business centres in twelve countries. Sensata’s products improve safety, efficiency and comfort for millions of people every day.

Their sensor products are widely used in automotive, appliance, aircraft, industrial, military, heavy vehicle, heating, air-conditioning and ventilation, data, telecommunications, recreational vehicle and marine applications, to name but a few.

For more information about Sensata Hall effect sensors, or their wider product range, visit www.sensata.com.