Magnetic sensors

Magnetic sensors

Magnetic sensors are used for the detection of positions without contact or wear and tear. They are used where very long sensing ranges are required. Since magnetic fields penetrate all non-magnetisable materials, the sensors can detect magnets through walls made of stainless steel, aluminium, plastic or wood.

What Is a Magnetic Field Sensor?

A magnetic field sensor is a device that detects and measures magnetic fields. In industrial applications, these sensors are often used to:

• Determine the position of a rotating or moving part.
• Measure the speed and direction of rotation.
• Provide feedback for control systems in automation and robotics.

The underlying idea is to convert a magnetic signal—often generated by a magnet attached to a moving part—into an electrical signal that can be interpreted by a control unit or microcontroller.

Working Principle of Magnetic Field Sensors

Most industrial magnetic field sensors, including those from IFM, rely on the Hall effect. Here’s how it works:

• Detection Mechanism: When a magnetic field passes through the sensor, it influences charge carriers (electrons) within a semiconductor.
• Hall Voltage Generation: This influence creates a voltage perpendicular to the current flow (the Hall voltage). The magnitude of this voltage is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field.
• Signal Processing: The sensor’s electronics then convert this voltage into a standardized output signal (analog or digital) that accurately represents the position or speed of the target component.

This design is not only accurate but also allows the sensor to operate reliably under various environmental conditions.

Why choose an ifm magnetic field sensors?

• Reliability & Robustness: IFM’s magnetic field sensors are engineered for demanding industrial environments. This means customers benefit from long‐term stability, minimal downtime, and consistent performance even under harsh conditions.
• High Precision & Fast Response: These sensors deliver accurate position and speed feedback. Their rapid response time ensures efficient process control and high-quality automation.
• Easy Integration: Designed with industrial interfaces and standardised connections, IFM sensors seamlessly integrate into existing automation systems. This reduces installation time and lowers overall system costs.
• Reduced Maintenance & Cost Efficiency: With pre-calibrated, rugged designs, these sensors require less maintenance over their operational lifetime, leading to a lower total cost of ownership.
• Enhanced Safety & Process Optimisation: By reliably monitoring machine positions or rotations, they help prevent equipment malfunctions and improve overall process safety.