Alliance Sensors Group, a manufacturer of linear and rotary position sensors and electronics, has announced the launch of its MR series of linear position sensors for use in measuring the ram position of hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders.

According to its developers, the MR series is designed to be a drop-in form, fit and function replacement for magnetostrictive sensors but with more robust construction and a lower cost of ownership, specifically targeting port-mounted applications of industrial, mobile, or subsea hydraulic cylinders and large pneumatic actuators.

Source: Alliance Sensors Group

Further, MR series sensors are based on a contactless inductive sensing technology that uses a solid probe construction style that employs a target tube spoiler mounted in a small diameter deep hole gun drilled in the cylinder rod for operation rather than needing a permanent magnet ring.

Other features of the MR series linear position sensor include:

• Measurement ranges from 1 inch to 36 inches
• Operates to 5,000 psi or 10,000 feet depth
• IEC IP-67 aluminum or stainless-steel housing
• Contactless; no wear-out
• Target tube spoiler supplied with unit
• DC voltage or current analog output
• SenSet field adjustable scaling

Because these sensors use a simple coil design rather than “time-of-flight” technology, the MR series sensors can withstand intense shocks and vibration, and operating temperatures up to 105° C. Resembling a magnetostrictive sensor with its sensor head and male o-ring port threads, an MR sensor features a shorter stroke-to-probe length ratio and can thread into the same o-ring bosses that accept a magnetostrictive sensor. For those applications where an MR is replacing an existing magnetostrictive sensor, the magnet ring can usually be left in place without affecting the performance of the sensor.