In today’s industrial environments, most industrial processes rely on monitoring systems to ensure product quality and process efficiency. Obtaining reliable results depends on selecting the appropriate sensor technology for the application. To accommodate these demands, sensors must be durable, flexible, and reliable, regardless of the environment. Proper sensor selection requires careful consideration of the sensor’s capabilities, limitations, and suitability for the intended application.
One of the top suitable sensors for major applications is proximity sensors. Because of their versatility and high level of functionality, proximity sensors cover a diverse range of sensing capabilities. Popular proximity sensor types include inductive, capacitive, and ultrasonic.
Because they typically perform extremely well in a variety of applications, proximity sensors are well suited for many industries. Their functionality, flexibility, and reliability allow proximity sensors to meet the requirements of most applications.
| Sensing distance | Target Material | Form factor and mounting style | Electrical requirements |
| Size of the target | Shape of the target | Environmental conditions | Connection method |
| Food and beverage | Chemical processing | Oil and gas | Pharmaceuticals |
| Discrete manufacturing | Building and construction | Automobile | Steel |
| Position detection on a mechanical moving part | Gear tooth detection for motion monitoring | Valve position control during processing | Foil seal detection inside plastic caps | Beverage and food can making lines | |
| Parking sensors | Ground proximity warning system for aviation safety | Vibration measurements of rotating shafts in machinery | Top dead centre (TDC)/camshaft sensor in reciprocating engines. | Conveyor systems | |
| Sheet breaks sensing in paper machine. | Anti-aircraft warfare | Roller coasters |