High-precision and tough

The ICURO RI58 rotary encoder impresses with its robustness and a very good resolution

Highest accuracy and great flexibility: These are the outstanding features of the incremental optical ICURO RI58 rotary encoder from Hengstler. Their special optical design provides a resolution of 10,000 pulses per revolution, while the wide range of flange and connection options and a wide-range power supply of 3-38V offers designers maximum freedom with their designs. Another advantage of the encoders is their self-monitoring function.

Many industry rotary encoders with a resolution of 10,000 PPR do not have the specified 10,000 lines on their direct-read meter, but instead calculate the respective output value using mathematical methods from a lower-resolution sinus/cosinus signal. Hengstler RI58 rotary encoders, however, are actually equipped with 10,000 lines on the direct-read meter and can output up to 40,000 steps. Hengstler's own true-read technology, a special optical design that Hengstler developed specifically for this rotary encoder, makes this possible. "When we make our rotary encoders, we push the boundaries of physical possibility", says Peter Elbel of Hengstler. "Few manufacturers have mastered this production process."

The extremely high accuracy of the ICURO RI58 rotary encoder is achieved entirely through the very detailed direct-read meter and is adjusted using a purely optical procedure. This means that their output value cannot be affected by factors, such as temperature, load or ageing, unlike signals of other conventional rotary encoders that have been interpolated or scaled by programming. The result is a high-resolution angle or speed measurement with a consistent repeat accuracy.

Another useful feature of ICURO RI58 rotary encoders is their continuous self-monitoring via error signals. If a malfunction is detected, an alarm signal is output; this can be displayed visually or transferred to a controller. The alarms of several rotary encoders can even be bundled into a single system alarm via parallel switching.

Ideal applications for ICURO RI58 rotary encoders include machine tools, CNC axes, packaging machines, injection moulding machines and sawing machines, as well as engines. The rotary encoders, which are equipped with a solid shaft, can tolerate high shock loads have the IP67 degree of protection, can be used in temperature ranges from –40 to +100 °C and can be supplied with voltages from 3 to 38V DC.