Small Format, Large Switching Distances: Inductive Sensors Now in Compact D3 and M4 Housing

wenglor’s product family of inductive sensors with increased switching distances features enhanced performance in miniature design: A total of eight new sensors from the I03 and I04 series in the compact D3 and M4 housing are available for detecting metallic objects in confined systems. Practically no larger than a pin head, the robust sensors in V2A stainless steel housing demonstrate their strengths exactly where space is most limited.

The I03 series sensors have a diameter of just three millimeters (D3) and a smooth housing, while the I04 series has an external thread with a total diameter of four millimeters (M4). With both series, the housing is just 22 millimeters long. The almost invisible miniature sensors detect precise switching signals in places where virtually no installation space is available. Increased switching distances of up to 1 mm, a robust PUR cable connection (two meters), a high IP67 degree of protection and a broad temperature range between –25 and +70 °C ensure high performance and long service life. “Thanks to flush mounting, the sensors can be integrated mechanically protected in systems”, explains wenglor product manager Maria Boos. “The optional PNP/NPN and NO/NC variants also enable convenient handling with existing systems. Thanks to the LED adjustment aid, the sensors can also be easily installed. The bright LED shows the status clearly, even over long distances.

Eight New Products Expand the Entire Portfolio
The introduction of the I03 and I04 series expands wenglor’s product portfolio for increased switching distances by eight new sensors (four per design). In total, there are now sensors in nine different formats in this range, with five connection types and in 15 different housing lengths. “With this wide range of products, we can find a suitable solution for every special requirement. Thanks to the new types, solutions are now also available in areas with very little space, where a reliable switching signal is still required”, says Boos.

Small Size Allows for a Wide Range of Applications
Thanks to their small size and low weight, the inductive sensors with increased switching distances are ideal for the end position detection of gripper systems in the production of wires and cables, for example. In addition, they can also be flush-mounted in robot grippers in the automotive industry for detecting the gripper opening and closing. The small sensors offer great support in the wood industry in pallet nailing machines. The continuous supply of nail pins can be monitored directly in the dispenser unit. The monitoring of drive shafts in chain conveyor systems in the packaging industry is also one of the key advantages of these sensors.

The Highlights at a Glance

• Small D3 and M4 formats (both housing length 22 mm)
• Switching distances up to 1 mm
• Robust housing in V2A stainless steel
• Connection via PUR cable
• Outstanding IP67 degree of protection
• Large temperature range –25 to +70 °C
• High switching frequency of 3,000 Hz
• PNP/NPN or NO/NC variants available
• Bright LED
• Adjustment aid thanks to flashing LED in the unsafe area