Air gap sensor
Sensors
Festo air gap sensors use compressed air as a non-contact measurement medium to detect distances, presence and reflection from workpieces. The SOPA-CM series consists of electronically evaluated air gap sensors that deliver a digital switching output when a defined air gap is undercut or an object is detected. Reflex eyes RFL-4 and RFL-15 and micro reflex eyes RML-4.8-S and RML-5 complement the range with purely pneumatic back-pressure sensors that require no electronics. Back-pressure transducers SD-2 and SD-3 measure the back-pressure signal for distance detection.
Fork air barriers SFL-6 and transmitter/receiver nozzles SFL-100-S/F as well as SML-40-S round out the range for pneumatic light-barrier principles. These designs suit applications in aggressive environments where optical or magnetic sensors fail.
| Type | Measuring principle | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| SOPA-CM | Electronic evaluation, air gap | M12 connector |
| RFL-4 / RFL-15 | Pneumatic, reflection | Compressed air port |
| RML-4.8-S / RML-5 | Pneumatic, micro reflex | Compressed air port |
| SD-2 / SD-3 | Back pressure | Compressed air port |
| SFL-6 / SFL-100 | Fork air barrier / transmitter-receiver | Compressed air port |
Typical applications: Non-contact workpiece presence checking in machine tool clamping fixtures (seating verification), distance measurement and thickness inspection in metal parts manufacturing, micro-component detection in the watch and jewellery industry, surface distance control in semiconductor manufacturing, and pneumatic object detection in oil or dust-laden environments.
