Ultrasonic sensor operates in harsh conditions

By Alex Pluemer, contributing writer

Hoffman and Krippner claims one of the smallest ultrasonic sensors with the introduction of the P53-80-D18, measuring 45 mm long with an 18-mm diameter. The new sensor’s size and reliable performance in harsh conditions make it a good fit in a variety of hygienic applications such as medical equipment, food and chemical processing, and packaging.

The sensor can be used to measure distance, detect presence, detect objects in motion, count objects, and check for completeness. It features a special V4A stainless-steel housing construction (1.4404) with a roughness depth of 0.6 μm, making it resistant to moisture, water vapor, dust, and other particulates. The sensor and the mounting assembly can be sanitized with strong cleaning agents without degrading the device, further enhancing its utility in hygienic applications.

The P53-D18, along with the P53-SC-D18-5-EHEDG support clamp, meet the European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group’s (EHEDG) “hygienic equipment design criteria” for “Type EL, Class I Aux” for mechanical design, composition, and surface qualities. The sensor should be used in conjunction with the accompanying P53-SC-D18-5-EHEDG support clamp for applications with strict hygienic requirements. By using ECOLAB-certified materials the sensor provides resistivity against cleaning agents like P3-topactive OKTO, P3-topactive 200, P3-topax 52, P3-topax 66, and P3-topax 990.

The miniature P53 offers a range of up to 800 mm and operates in temperatures as high as 80°C. The sensor is outfitted with an integrated cable screw connection for hygiene in food and beverage as well as bottling and packaging industries. The industrial version includes an M12 connector with a power supply, signal output, and teach-in and can be mounted with two Teflon nuts that provide acoustic decoupling. Also, the P53 can be configured via the M12 connector cable. Optional hold/synch switches are available.

The P53-80-D18 is available now. Data sheets and additional tech details are available.