MTS Systems Corp., Sensors Division introduces a redundant version of its G-Series Temposonics® sensors to offer maximum safety in critical applications. Designated the GT, the new sensor measures critical variables by means of two or three independent, functionally and identical measurement systems in a single compact sensor housing. "At critical measurement points, the GT sensor provides safe, reliable position measurement, protects against failure and ensures availability," said Drew Smedley, Director of Global Marketing, MTS Sensors. "This redundancy ensures maximum safety in applications where a failure would have disastrous effects on safety as well as costs." Each measurement system comprises a basic sensor element, and evaluation electronics with separate output signal and supply voltage. The two or three sensor elements are all housed in a standard size pressure-resistant stainless steel pipe for direct stroke measurement in the hydraulic cylinders. The sensor’s pressure rod installs into an industry standard cylinder end cap and piston rod assembly. A position magnet marker, secured to the piston head, travels along the sensor rod without making contact. The resulting sensing system provides highly accurate and reliable piston rod position feedback for the life of the hydraulic cylinder. The GT sensor package can also easily be installed external to cylinders or machine surfaces by means of simple mounting brackets. The GT sensor is ideal for measurement of linear movements in drives and fluid cylinders or in machine operation, including motor-actuated positioning at power station, water, gas or steam turbines; pitch adjustment of wind turbines or marine screw propellers; and marine control systems and flood gates. The redundant sensor outputs allow for the position measurement validity to be checked by totals formation with inverse output signal programming. Alternatively, the sensor interface electronics or control system can monitor the difference between the measured position values. If variations are detected, remedial measures can be taken immediately. The measurement systems are completely independent and can be switched on individually. The sensor version with three redundant measurement systems allows redundant measurement without the need for immediate replacement. The GT sensors provide linearity better than 0.02 percent and repeatability better than 0.001 percent. Due to the high linearity, even minimum measurement differences are identified, whereby the error tolerance can be adjusted individually and adapted to the application. The stroke length is also selectable within 25 mm to 1500 mm. The GT sensor is compact in design with a 70 mm hex electronics housing and 10mm measuring rod and standard mounting. Electrical connection options include the use of either three independent integral M16 connectors or three pigtail terminated integral cables.
