Inductive proximity switch for dynamic fine positioning and control

Siemens’s Industry Automation Division has produced a new inductive proximity switch for the precise analog and dynamic measurement of distances from metal objects. The Simatic PXI920 has a compact M12 frame size and a high IP67 degree of protection. It measures object distances from 0 to 3 millimeters at a frequency of 250 hertz. Values of between 0 and 10 volts, proportional to the measured distances of the object, are made available at a voltage output for further processing. The proximity switch can be mounted flush. It is especially suitable for dynamic fine positioning and controlling feeders. For example, so-called “dancer controls”, which are used for continuous products, such as foils, plastics, paper, sheet metal and textiles.

The Simatic PXI920 is suitable for use in a wide range of applications: such as packaging processes, plastic processing machines, and in the manufacture and processing of continuous products. In automated production, analog distance measurement plays a part in the precise evaluation of wear and fracture, and in making the simple distinction between tool and workpiece. This new inductive proximity switch has advantages over binary proximity switches, especially under difficult environmental conditions. For example, it can detect the presence of swarf and slag before a possible plant failure occurs.

Further information can be found on the Internet at: www.siemens.com/simatic-sensors/px
A photo accompanies this press release. You can find this photo on the Internet at: www.siemens.com/ad-picture/1908

The Siemens Industry Sector (Erlangen, Germany) is the worldwide leading supplier of production, transportation, building and lighting technologies. With integrated automation technologies as well as comprehensive industry-specific solutions, Siemens increases the productivity, efficiency and flexibility of its customers in the fields of industry and infrastructure. The Sector consists of six Divisions: Building Technologies, Drive Technologies, Industry Automation, Industry Solutions, Mobility and Osram. With around 222,000 employees worldwide Siemens Industry posted in fiscal year 2008 a profit of EUR3.86 billion with revenues totalling EUR38 billion. www.siemens.com/industry

The Siemens Industry Automation Division (Nuremberg, Germany) is a worldwide leader in the fields of automation systems, low-voltage switchgear and industrial software. Its portfolio ranges from standard products for the manufacturing and process industries to solutions for whole industrial sectors that encompass the automation of entire automobile production facilities and chemical plants. As a leading software supplier, Industry Automation optimizes the entire value added chain of manufacturers – from product design and development to production, sales and a wide range of maintenance services. With around 42,900 employees worldwide Siemens Industry Automation achieved in fiscal year 2008 total sales of EUR8.7 billion.