Encoders
Setup and support
Installation guidelines

Encoders: Installation guidelines

Thank you for your purchase of an ifm encoder. The following is intended to help you with installation. Should you need additional support, feel free to contact our service center at 800-441-8246 and speak to one of our applications engineers.

Encoders have two basic designs - solid shaft and hollow shaft. Installation of each is slightly different and depends on how they are mounted to the machinery.

In general, solid shaft encoders are preferred for high-precision applications or enviornments with high mechanical stress. Hollow shaft encoders are ideal where ease of installation and flexibility are important, such as in tight spaces or frequent removal is required.

Solid shaft requires coupling to connect encoder to the rotating shaft.

Hollow shaft encoder mounts directly to the rotating shaft with set screw.

        
        Advantages of solid shaft mounting

Stability: More rigid and stable connection which can be important for high-precision applications.
Durability: Able to handle higher levels of mechanical stress and vibration.
Alignment: Less prone to misalignment issues compared to hollow shaft encoders.

        
        Advantages of hollow shaft mounting

Ease of installation: Easy to install and remove, especially in tight spaces.
Flexibility: Accomodate shafts of various diameters with the use of inserts or adapters.
Reduced mechanical load: Impose less mechanical load on the shaft which can be beneficial in applications with delicate or lightweight components.

Accessories

ifm offers a variety of couplings, measuring wheels and other accessories that can be found with all our accessories.