Capacitive Sensors

How we work
As capacitive sensors we measure the capacity between an active sensor electrode and the electric earth potential. Our RC oscillator starts to oscillate as soon as the space between the sensor electrode and the object to be recognized drops below a certain value (operating range). In the process an output signal is produced which is rectified and filtered first of all, and subsequently passes through interference pulse suppression before it is output.

What we can do
We operate contactless and are able to recognize almost any object. This fact differentiates us from inductive proximity switches which can recognize metal objects only. Typical applications for switches like us are found in the chemical and food industry as well as in glass, paper and timber processing. Moreover, we are frequently used for direct level measurement and flow control monitoring.

What makes us so special
Apart from metal and nonmetal objects we are able to recognize materials in liquid, grainy or powdery state - such as timber, synthetic materials, paper, oil, sand or water. Our reaction depends on the type of material which we are to recognize because every material is characterized by a different operating range. In order to be able to adapt the sensor to the material used, most capacitive proximity switches have been fitted with a potentiometer which can be used to control the sensitivity. We are available in several constructions and different output stages. Our maximum operating range is 40 mm.