NewTek LVDT position sensor
NewTek Sensor Solutions’ LVDT position sensor for resistance spot welding machines is designed to detect missing and misaligned parts in automotive plants. The technology will focus on nut and stud welding, ideal for automotive manufacturing due to the hundreds of welded nuts and studs that hold cars together. Additionally, ensuring nuts and studs are secure is critical to the safety of operations, especially in automotive manufacturing.
Key information:
- NewTek Sensor Solutions launch its LVDT position sensor for resistance spot welding machines.
- The sensor claims to have a high measurement resolution of ~0.0009” (0.02mm).
- According to the developers, the sensor is ideal for automotive manufacturing uses as it can boost the safety of operations.
The position sensor manufacturers designed the AC-operated LVDT sensor to fit inside the weld body of the machine, with the remote signal conditioning providing high levels of shock resilience. According to the developers, the sensor has a very high stroke length ratio with improved repeatability. Additionally, NewTek’s latest release claims to have a high measurement resolution of ~0.0009” (0.02mm), with the sensor able to detect minute changes in process conditions.
The LVDT works collaboratively with the resistance weld control equipment to detect and report different conditions including:
- Double part.
- Incomplete weld.
- Misloaded weld.
- Upside down nut.
- Weld pin extended position.
- Weld pin retraction.
- Wrong or missing part.
The position sensor will reportedly trigger a go/no go response with each pass, according to the programmed system spec limits.
Similar to other LVDTs, NewTek’s sensor has no contact between its core and coil structure, ensuring no parts rub together or wear life, which can prolong mechanical life. The manufacturer also claims that the sensor is not as affected by AC or DC fields, as it has magnetic shielding.
The position sensor solution provider allegedly has the in-house engineering and domestic manufacturing capabilities to design and build customised AC and DC-operated LVDT Position Sensors including:
- High stroke-to-length ratios.
- Higher temperature exposures.
- Radiation and submersion resistance.
- Ratiometric output.
- Specific electrical output requirements.
Sensors can also be constructed of ceramic and special core materials with alloys such as Monel, Inconel, Hastelloy, and Titanium used in the sensor body.