LVDT Transducers

LVDT measure displacement and come with the primary and two secondary coils (AC) or with built in signal conditioning to give a DC output signal. The Tracker 260 is designed to work with AC LVDTs, DC LVDTs can be used with our 211 and 220 range of process input panel meters.

The Tracker 260 is configured for the correct transducer excitation voltage and frequency as recommended by the sensor manufacturer. Once the sensor is positioned the Tracker 260 "Fast Cal" feature provides a easy and simple method of calibrating the meter to the transducer at any two positions.

The LVDT Sensor

Linear Variable Differential Transformers are position sensors that are used industrial applications where reliability is vital. Unlike most position sensors (e.g. potentiometers) LVDTs have no moving electrical contacts which will eventually wear out or corrode. Typical LVDT measurement ranges are ±0.25mm up to ±600mm and can have IP68 protection, allowing use in very harsh conditions including submersible applications. They are used in may aerospace applications.

LVDT sensors are transformers that operates on the electromagnetic coupling between a primary coil and two secondary coils, which are wound out of phase with each other. An AC current energizes the primary coil typically at between 1-10KHz and 2-5V amplitude. The LVDT's output signal is a differential AC voltage between the two secondary windings, which varies with the position of the core (armature) within the coils. The phase of the output indicates the core position relative to the null (middle) position of the core.

The Tracker 260 LVDT Signal Conditioner / Indicator

The Tracker 260 accepts AC outputs from LVDT in 2-wire, 3-wire (ratio-metric) and 4-wire (ratio-metric). There is a "Null Position" feature that allows the user to quickly find the electrical mid position of the core. This allows the user to position the LVDT so that the required measurement is taken through the most linear portion of the transducer range.

The Tracker 260 can be quickly calibrated to any engineering units and has user selectable sensor excitation frequency and amplitude, analogue outputs and serial communications, including Modbus RTU), all fitted as standard. Alarm outputs are also available as an option.