Extreme environments, such as those in the chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, water treatment, mining, and pharmaceutical industries, pose unique challenges to industrial process technology. Valve position sensors in these industries must withstand high temperatures, salt water, harsh chemicals, and corrosion. The ruggedized F31K2 from Pepperl+Fuchs is designed to monitor the valve position of valve actuators reliably and contact-free, no matter the conditions.
F31K2 sensors are a durable solution for tough conditions. Since the dual inductive sensors provide non-contact detection of valve position, the sensor and control electronics are sealed from the actuator to prevent wear. Combined in a single module and enclosed in rugged, translucent plastic, the sensor and its components are protected from moisture, mechanical vibration, impact, and UV light. This dual mechanical protection ensures maintenance-free operation and that sensors can withstand temperatures from -40 °C to +75 °C.
F31K2 is part of Pepperl+Fuchs’ open solutions concept for valve position feedback and can be adapted to a variety applications. Mechanically standardized drives and NAMUR mounting holes make this possible. The solution’s fundamental components are an actuator (puck) that contains the targets and two inductive sensors in one modular package. A high visibility beacon is also included to indicate local on/off position.
The F31K2 sensor is designed to connect to existing control systems, so versions with all common types of connection and interface are available. The valve position solution can be adapted to various shaft diameters and heights, covering diameters of 90 mm and heights of up 50 mm with two sizes of actuator head. Models can also be linked using terminal compartment connection technology.