Precision Switching Products & Linear Position Sensors

SL Series Linear Sensor FAQs

Can the sensor be run dry, i.e. on the gas side of an accumulator?  
Yes, the sensor is designed to run either on the gas sided or the oil side of the accumulator. Consult factory for recommendations specific to gas or oil operation.
 
Do oil vapors or other airborne contaminates affect the operation of the sensor?
Since the core sensor is a non-contacting technology, there are no concerns with regard to films or oxidation.
 
What is the pressure rating of the enclosure?
The standard enclosure has a working pressure rating of 5,000 psi.
 
What type of output does the sensor produce?
The sensor can be operated with any standard signal conditioner. Outputs of 0-5V, 0-10V, and 4-20mA are most common.  Magnetostrictive-based sensors are available with virtually any output, including CAN Bus.
 
How long can the flexible conduit be?
There is no practical length to the flexible conduit. However, consideration must be given to reduction in cable velocity due to drag; drag is significantly reduced if the sensor is installed on the fluid side. (Ref PN SL0390)
 
How much can I bend the flexible conduit?
The bend guidelines for the Teflon-lined conduit are the same as standard SAE 100 R16 hydraulic hose, with a MBR of 3.5 inches. (Ref PN SL0390)
 
Is there a wear or drag penalty for bending the flexible conduit?
In oil, no penalty; in gas (dry) applications, some reduction of cycle life should be expected with long runs and bends. Bending the conduit in dry (gas-side) installations will increase drag and wear of the conduit liner, but still yield a cycle life of 20,000 to 40,000 full cycles. Pre-lubricating the conduit can increase the cycle life. Straight conduit installations in dry environments have no drag or wear considerations. In high-cycle applications requiring long conduits with bends, it may be preferable to install on the oil side, where the conduit is continuously lubricated. (Ref PN SL0390)
 
What are the cycle life limitations?
The core sensing technology is non-contacting, which has unlimited cycle life. All SL Series sensors have been tested to a minimum of 1 million full stroke cycles under various conditions, including dry installations. Mechanical components of the sensor are designed for multiple millions of full-stroke cycles
 
Are dither cycles a problem?
Non-contacting LVDT is immune to dither wear. Extreme dither applications should be tested prior to field deployment.
 
How fast does the cable recoil?
Our test facility has a maximum velocity of 80 inches/second, which, the sensor is capable of tracking. Factors which will affect cable speed include conduit length, conduit bends, fluid type and temperature.
 
What if the oil surrounding the sensor is frozen solid?
Like most hydraulic system components, the CPI sensor will not operate in a solid medium.

 

Make The "Switch" to CPI

If your momentary switch application demands high performance, we think you should demand CPI. Please call us today to speak with our engineering team about your needs.

(973) 887-9400