HSTA And HSTAR Sensors Resist Heat And Vibration

Macro Sensors' HSTA and HSTAR LVDT-based linear-position sensors offer the environmental resistance and short-stroke sensor body length for cylinder applications where these are critical. While linear-position sensors were once considered too long for hydraulic applications, the development of new winding techniques, such as computerised layer winding and improved microprocessing, has considerably reduced the length of the linear-position sensor body compared with its measurable stroke length. In fact, for short-stroke actuators and cylinders (less than 6in), Macro Sensors' linear-position sensors can be much shorter than a magnetostrictive sensor.

These linear-position sensors are hermetically sealed and AC-operated. They measure 3/4in (19mm) diameter and can survive in temperatures up to 200C and withstand high levels of shock and vibration. Coil windings are sealed against hostile environments to IEC standard IP-68. They are offered with either an axial (HSTA) or radial (HSTAR) connector - units can have a through bore for the fluid to pass or can seal the fluid in the RAM. The radial connector makes the installed length of the HSTAR LVDTs at least 2in shorter than comparable units, with an axially mounted connector for easier installation in tight spaces.

Accessible from both ends, the linear-position sensors can be easily cleaned of grit, dirt, dust or other contaminants for greater reliability and longer life. Available in ranges of +/-0.050in (+/-1.25mm) to +/-10.0in (+/-250mm), the HSTA and HSTAR sensors feature the high resolution, excellent repeatability and low hysteresis associated with LVDT (linear variable differential transformer) technology, as well as the highest sensitivity consistent with good linearity. The maximum linearity error for any of these sensors is +/-0.25 per cent of full-range output using a statistically best-fit straight line derived by the least squares method.

Macro Sensors offers custom designs for higher temperatures and pressure resistance, smaller diameters and connector options. HSTA and HSTAR Series LVDTs operate properly with any conventional differential input LVDT signal conditioner. Ranges of 1in or greater will also work with ratiometric LVDT signal conditioning. Macro Sensors offers a full line of LVDT signal conditioners that deliver optimum performance from any HSTA and HSTAR linear-position sensor.