A Closer Look at Tilt Sensor Technology Used Today

Another design concept applies in all sensors today is intrinsic safety. The idea of intrinsic safety began in mines where explosions occurred due to sparks created by electromechanical devices. These explosions caused massive casualties, making mining one of the most hazardous jobs anywhere in the

Many industries around the world are engaged in activities that require off-shore drilling and deep sea exploration. Whether the purpose is to find fuel sources or conduct research, machines, and equipment used in these scenarios rely on precision parts to function effectively. An essential role in the monitoring and measurement aspects of these pieces of equipment are sensors. Different types of sensors measure a specific parameter. For example, a tilt sensor also known as an inclinometer measures the angle of elevation or depression of a device concerning gravity.

Tilt sensor specifications

Whether it is an ordinary tilt sensor or a submersible tilt sensor, these devices come in different specifications. Each variation determines the intended application. Like other sensors, the performance of a tilt sensor can change due to external factors inherently present in each working condition. Finding the correct specification ensures that the effects of these factors are mitigated.

• The number of axes. A tilt sensor can either have two or three axes. A dual axes sensor may not be suitable for applications that require three axes tilt sensors.

• Resolution. In sensing technology, the resolution of a device pertains to the least degree of measurement it is capable of.

• The range of measurement. Tilt sensors measure inclination in degrees. Each sensor may vary in the measurement range. For example, there are sensors with a limited range of measurement of only up to 10 degrees while other sensors can measure all the way up to 60 degrees.

• Noise tolerance. If the application exposes the sensor to too much noise, it may lead to measurement distortion and significant degrees of variation. Noise is detrimental to the performance of the sensor, hence, if the application ha high exposure to noise, use sensors with high noise tolerance.

• Vibration. Similar to noise, vibration can also lead to wear and tear. In applications where the equipment performs in such conditions, resistance to vibration is necessary. One solution is to use a tilt sensor built with contactless technology.

With these parameters, you can narrow-down the requirements needed for the right sensor perfectly suited to the intended application.

Submersible tilt sensors

Tilt sensors intended for use in deep-sea applications must adhere to strict requirements of robustness and safety. Positek manufactures submersible tilt sensors that can consistently perform even up to depths of 3,500m. The robustness of these compact sensors also allows for application in harsh conditions where there is a likelihood of exposure to corrosive liquid.

Positek's patented contactless technology defines all the sensors they manufacture. Since each sensor is not prone to regular wear and tear caused by friction, they tend to last longer than other sensors. You'll find that Positek's sensors are famous for application in off-road motor vehicles, underwater equipment, submarines, deep-sea exploration vehicles, oil rigs, ships, and other marine automotive equipment.

Intrinsic safety

Another design concept applies in all sensors today is intrinsic safety. The idea of intrinsic safety began in mines where explosions occurred due to sparks created by electromechanical devices. These explosions caused massive casualties, making mining one of the most hazardous jobs anywhere in the world.

To solve the problem with explosions, intrinsic safety guidelines became a requirement and applied to all machines used in such conditions. Intrinsically safe sensors are sensors unable to produce enough electric charge to cause a spark. This is crucial in working conditions where there is a high presence of flammable gasses, dust, and other combustible particulates.

Intrinsically safe tilt sensors by themselves are not sufficient. For a machine to pass intrinsic safety guidelines, engineers must adhere to the correct installation procedure to produce an intrinsically safe equipment.

Positek complies with intrinsic safety guidelines around the world by manufacturing tilt sensors that comply with these requirements. There are three intrinsic safety institutions that operate around the word ATEX, IECEx, and CSA. Positek has a complete inventory of tilt sensors that have these intrinsic safety accreditation's.

Together with the robust technology used by Positek, every buyer has the guarantee of getting only the best quality sensors that will perform well even in the harshest working conditions. They also offer customisation services for one-of-a-kind applications. Positek understands that while they already have an extensive inventory of products, there are instances when specifications need adjustment for a perfect fit. As such, their engineers are on standby to answer design consultations for clients looking to have custom tilt sensors made.