What is an Eddy Current Sensor?
Eddy current sensors detect displacement, position, or proximity of conductive materials without physical contact. They work on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
Components of an Eddy Current Sensor
- Coil: Generates an alternating magnetic field.
- Target Material: A conductive material whose proximity or movement affects the magnetic field.
- Signal Processor: Converts changes in the magnetic field into an electrical signal.
How an Eddy Current Sensor Works
- The coil generates an alternating magnetic field.
- When a conductive material approaches the coil, eddy currents are induced in the material.
- These eddy currents create their own magnetic field, which opposes the original magnetic field.
- The sensor detects changes in the magnetic field, which correspond to the distance or movement of the conductive material.
- The signal processor converts these changes into a measurable electrical signal.
Applications of Eddy Current Sensors
- Non-Destructive Testing: Inspecting metal parts for cracks or defects.
Example: Detecting surface cracks in aircraft components.
- Position and Proximity Sensing: Measuring the position of moving parts in machinery.
Example: Monitoring the position of a piston in hydraulic cylinders.
- Vibration Monitoring: Detecting changes in the position or displacement of machine components.
Example: Monitoring shaft displacement in turbines.
