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LVDT Transducers (Linear Variable Differential Transformer)

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ZX-TDS04T-L

ZX-TDS04T-L

Omron Automation & Safety Services

SENSOR

1

LVDT Transducers (Linear Variable Differential Transformer)

1. Overview

Linear Variable Differential Transformers (LVDTs) are electromechanical sensors that convert linear displacement into electrical signals. As a type of inductive transducer, LVDTs operate on transformer principles to provide precise, contactless position measurements. Their inherent reliability, infinite resolution, and robustness in harsh environments make them critical in industries requiring high-precision motion control, such as aerospace, automotive testing, and industrial automation.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

Type Functional Features Application Examples
AC-LVDT Requires external signal conditioning; high accuracy and durability Aerospace flight control systems
DC-LVDT Integrated electronics for direct voltage output; easier to interface Industrial automation sensors
PCB-Mounted LVDT Compact design for printed circuit board integration Medical diagnostic equipment
High-Temperature LVDT Operates up to 400 C with specialized insulation materials Power plant valve position monitoring
Submersible LVDT Hermetically sealed for underwater/wet environment use Hydraulic cylinder position feedback

3. Structure and Components

Typical LVDT construction includes:

  • Core: Ferromagnetic movable element coupled to the target
  • Primary Coil: Center coil driven by AC excitation
  • Secondary Coils: Symmetrical differential windings (S1 and S2)
  • Bobbin: Cylindrical polymer or ceramic structure housing coils
  • Shield: Electromagnetic interference protection (often stainless steel)

Operation principle: The core's position modulates magnetic coupling between primary and secondary coils, generating a differential voltage proportional to displacement.

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter Significance
Measurement Range Defines operational displacement limits (typically 0.1mm to 250mm)
Linearity Error Maximum deviation from ideal transfer function (0.05-0.25% FS)
Resolution Theoretical minimum detectable displacement (down to 0.1 m)
Frequency Response Dynamic measurement capability (up to 20kHz for AC-LVDTs)
Temperature Range Operating limits (-55 C to +150 C standard)
IP Rating Environmental protection level (IP60 to IP68 available)

5. Application Fields

  • Industrial: Servo valve position control, CNC machine tool monitoring
  • Automotive: Suspension travel analysis, brake wear measurement
  • Aerospace: Flight surface position sensing, landing gear deployment
  • Medical: MRI table positioning, robotic surgical device feedback
  • Energy: Nuclear reactor rod position monitoring, wind turbine pitch control

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer Representative Product Key Features
TE Connectivity DC-LVDT 5LV Series 0.25% linearity, 0-20V DC output, IP68
Macro Sensors AC16 Series 0.05% non-linearity, 3kHz bandwidth
Honeywell 976SC Series Submersible design, 0.1 m resolution
DLCI Electronics Model 3800 High-temperature capability (up to 400 C)

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations:

  • Required measurement range vs. linearity tradeoffs
  • Environmental conditions (temperature, vibration, contamination)
  • Electrical interface compatibility (AC/DC, analog/digital)
  • Physical installation constraints (space, mounting options)
  • Cost vs. performance optimization

8. Industry Trends

Emerging developments include:

  • Nanometer-resolution MEMS-based LVDTs for semiconductor manufacturing
  • Wireless-enabled smart transducers with integrated IoT connectivity
  • Additive manufacturing of custom coil geometries
  • Advanced thermal compensation algorithms via embedded microprocessors
  • Increased adoption in autonomous vehicle sensor fusion systems
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