APPLICATION NOTE: Positek’s PIPS™ technology simplifies multi-point displacement measurement for large-scale structural monitoring tasks

For displacement monitoring on road and rail bridges and similarly large structures, a typical complement of several individually mounted Positek sensors, such as heavy-duty S115 series push-rod variant, can be used to monitor the real-time displacement between critical structural elements. These 35 mm body diameter sensors provide continuous positional information via a wide choice of industry-standard electrical outputs with a calibrated proportional and absolute output-to-length ratio. This allows complete flexibility for the customer’s preferred data-logging or other instrumentation system, and there is no need for additional signal conditioning as is the case with more complex and costly LVDT sensors.

With environmental sealing to IP68 and 10 bar pressure endurance, the all-stainless steel S115 series benefits from straightforward mounting options that include M8 rod eye bearings and body tube clamps. The sturdy 12.6 mm diameter push-rod can be supplied free moving, captive or spring loaded in either travel direction. With its minimal overall body-to-measurement length, the compact sensor is easily installed. Customers can select a calibrated measurement range from 5 mm to 800 mm and the push-rod design can be custom adapted to accommodate large installed spans between the fixed and moving elements of the application. The S115 has a typical linearity specification of <±0.25% over a 450 mm measurement range and an effectively infinite resolution that allows real-time linear position detection of the smallest sub-millimetre structural movements.

With no contact between its moving electrical components, the sensor’s reliability and life is exceptionally high in comparison to potentiometer alternatives. With potential mounting sites needing to survive high humidity, driving rain and severe temperature extremes, the sealed IP68 rated sensors’ durability is further assured with respective shock and vibration specification values of 10g (IEC 68-2-6) and 40g (IEC 68-2-29). As with all other Positek sensors, a wide choice of electrical connection options is offered.

The UK-based ISO 9001-2008 qualified manufacturer’s comprehensive range includes linear, rotary and tilt displacement sensors based on its patented PIPS technology that are extensively used across a wide variety of industrial and scientific position measurement tasks. Along with custom design service, Positek also offer a range of ATEX- and IECEx-qualified sensors for structural monitoring and other measurement tasks for intrinsically safe installation.