Ultra-compact encoder

Certified for safety-related applications

Users who require an ultra-compact singleturn absolute encoder for safety-related applications now have a new option. TWK's TRK38 safety encoder, first introduced just under a year ago, has been certified by a Notified Body for applications that meet the requirements of SIL 2 (IEC 61508) and Performance Level d (EN 13849). The sensor's first applications include automated guided vehicles, mobile robots and crane systems.

The safety encoder detects speed and velocity and operates according to the magnetic principle. The safety-oriented signals are transmitted via a certified EtherCAT FSoE interface. In addition to its suitability for demanding safety tasks, the extremely compact design is one of the special features of this cylindrical sensor: with 38 x 38 mm (diameter x length), it can also be installed in very confined spaces.

The TWK designers have developed the TRK38 as a safety-related sensor that meets the requirements of SIL 2 (IEC 61508) and PL d (EN 13849). This has now been confirmed by a Notified Body after testing the absolute rotary encoder. The certificate makes work easier for the designer who uses the TRK38: he can be sure that he is using a standard-compliant sensor in his machine or system that also works reliably in critical and demanding safety tasks.

One of the first users of the TRK38 is a manufacturer of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and mobile robots. Here, the encoder detects the rotation of the electric traction motor. Other areas of application for which the new safety sensor was developed are wind turbines (rotor position), cranes (winch monitoring), bottling plants and mobile machines. In these and other applications, in addition to the high safety level according to the Machinery Directive and the compact construction, a robust design is also required - i.e. permanently reliable sensor operation even under adverse environmental conditions.