Ambient Conditions

Particularities of ambient conditions must be considered so that sensors can meet the requirements placed on them. For special ambient condition requirements, in most cases there are suitable sensor versions that can be used effectively.

The permissible ambient temperature is the temperature range in which an inductive sensor functions properly. The following applies to standard sensors from Pepperl+Fuchs:

• Ambient temperature: -25 °C ... +70 °C or 248 K … 343 K
• Storage temperature: -40 °C ... +85 °C or 233 K … 358 K

For special shapes:
-25 °C ... +100 °C or 248 K ... 373 K
-40 °C ... +150 °C or 233 K ... 423 K
0 °C ... +200 °C or 273 K ... 473 K
0 °C ... +250 °C or 273 K ... 523 K

Sensors for Elevated Ambient Temperatures

Inductive sensors can be designed for elevated ambient temperatures. The sensors reach their stress limits at the following maximum values:

• Sensors with "T" marking in the type designation: ≤ +100 °C
• Sensors with "150", "200", or "250" marking in the type designation: maximum operating temperature in each case in °C.

For extremely low temperatures, there is no code in the order designation.

Especially pressure-resistant sensors are available for special pressure resistance requirements. Sensors of this type have the marking "D" in the type designation: up to 500 bar. Refer to the technical data of the relevant product for details.

Inductive sensors are subjected to comprehensive testing for their shock resistance and vibration resistance requirements. Shock resistance testing is carried out in accordance with IEC 60068-2-27. Vibration resistance testing is carried out in accordance with IEC 60068-2-6.

Weld-proof inductive sensors have a "C" marking in the type designation. Sensors of this type have sufficient robustness for special environments, e.g., when used in welding systems or machine tools. Pepperl+Fuchs has a wide range of weld-proof sensors in its product portfolio.

Sensors with hermetically sealed stainless steel housing are used particularly for washdown applications, in which frequent cleaning cycles take place with hot steam and high-pressure cleaners. These sensors have a metal sensor surface and therefore a high degree of robustness. In addition to washdown applications, metal face sensors are often used in machine tools where they are flushed by cooling liquids.

Depending on the requirements, inductive sensors are protected according to IP65, IP67, or IP68 (EN 60529). Versions with degree of protection IP69K are available for use in particularly harsh industrial environments.