People use detectors for various purposes in terms of safety and security, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and automation. Their primary function is to monitor and respond to various physical, chemical, and environmental changes and eventually enable a system to function more safely, efficiently, and accurately. In the field of industrial automation, photoelectric sensors are extensively used.
Photoelectric sensors and systems are devices that use light to detect objects, offering non-contact solutions for different industrial settings. They work by emitting, receiving, and analyzing light that is disrupted, reflected, or absorbed by the object passing through. The system has three types with Through-Beam Sensors having a long sensing range and high-accuracy performance. This sensor has two separate units, an emitter and a receiver positioned opposite each other. The Retro-Reflective Sensor, on the other hand, has the emitter and receiver in one unit together, with a reflector placed on the opposite side. Finally, the Diffuse Sensor also has the emitter and receiver housed in a single unit but without a reflector.
What are the things to consider when buying the best photoelectric sensors for your automation needs?
Range and Detection Distance
Through-beam is best for precise, long-distance detection while diffuse-reflective sensor is for close-range detection. Usually, positioning or counting items requires short-range detection.
Object Material and Surface
Again through-beam and also polarized retro-reflective sensors are efficient in handling transparent materials like glass and plastic.
Environmental Conditions
Harsh environments like dust, moisture, or changes in lighting can be overcome by through-beam detectors due to their powerful, uninterrupted light beam. Some of these sensors come with IP ratings that specify resistance to dust and water.
Quick Response Time
High-speed conveyor belt systems require a sensor with a quick response time to accurately track objects passing through at accelerated speed. The through-beam system is perfect for this as it also excels in detecting small items with high accuracy even at rapid speed processing.
Installation Options
Ensure the hardware is suitable for your space, and if multiple sensors are in close proximity, consider ones with anti-interference features. After all, these devices are available in various form factors to suit different installation needs.
Automation Purpose
Through-beam sensors are best for high-speed conveyor lines with fast-moving objects and require precise detection over long distances. They can also be installed with safety systems. Meanwhile, retro-reflective sensors are the right choice for transparent or reflective objects, warehouse management, and packaging applications. Lastly, diffuse-reflective sensors are perfect for applications with varying or moving objects close to the sensor, such as counting items on an assembly line. They are the right choice to detect the position of an object on an assembly line for robotic processing. Since they are involved in close-range detection, they are used to detect if a part is present or not in a compartment. Also, their color and contrast sensing is efficient, so they’re right for sorting and quality inspections.
By understanding the differences among the three types of photoelectric sensors and systems, you can make an informed choice that maximizes their performance.
