Posted to News on 12th Jul 2010, 14:01
Sick AFS/AFM60 absolute encoders in a choice of configurations
Sick(UK) is extending its high-resolution, programmable range of optical encoders with the launch of the AFS/AFM60 series, which is designed to cope with harsh application conditions. This series comprises a full range of solid-shaft and hollow-shaft absolute encoders, and the inclusion of programmable variants means that the encoders offer excellent versatility for system design engineers, and reduce spares stocks for end-users.
According to Sick, the 18-bit resolution ,strong>AFS60 single-turn encoder is suitable for applications such as crank positioning of power presses, turntable and carousel positioning, and telescope azimuth and altitude positioning. The 30-bit resolution AFM60 multi-turn encoder, which positions over 4096 turns, is suitable for use in winch hoisting, crane positioning, pitch adjustment on wind turbines, wave machines and tidal generators.
Darren Pratt, UK encoder product specialist for Sick, comments: "The AFM/AFS60 series of absolute encoders boasts a range of clever design features which enhance its durability, reliability and ease-of-use. The range is also incredibly scalable and flexible and, with a wide range of potential uses, it is a great addition to the existing range of programmable incremental encoders."
Robust construction
The AFM60 and AFS60 encoders feature a nickel code disk and optimised shaft bearing arrangement, thereby ensuring greater robustness and temperature resistance than encoders using glass or plastic code disks. As a result, the encoders can be applied in ambient temperatures of -20 to +100degC.
In addition, the two bearing races of the AFS/AFM are positioned more than 30mm apart, resulting in reduced run-out and smoother operation. The wide bearing separation also enables higher radial load capabilities and a longer bearing life.
With three different variants, namely Eco, Standard and Advanced, Sick has developed models to suit a variety of applications and budgets. Eco types support resolutions of up to 4096 steps/turns, the Standard variant up to 32,768 steps/turn and the Advanced model up to 262,144 steps/turn.
The range is said to be exceptionally versatile, with each unit in the AFM/AFS60 series - encased in industry proven 60mm housings - being available as a servo-flange, face-mounted flange, blind hollow shaft or through hollow shaft configuration. All models are mechanically identical to the equivalent Sick DFS60 incremental encoder, including the AFM variants that feature integral gear-driven multiturn stages for detecting multiple revolutions.
Both the AFM60 and the AFS60 communicate positional information to a PLC or other controller using the Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI) developed by Sick's subsidiary, Sick|Stegmann, 25 years ago. It is easily programmed using the same low-cost USB programming tool used with the DFS60.
Follow the link for more information about the Sick AFS/AFM60 absolute encoders.
