Babu Banarasi Das National Institute of Technology & Management

Sensor and Instrumentation KOE034

Lecture Notes

Faculty : Shivam Dixit Course : B.Tech – CSE 3 Semester

Inductive Proximity Sensor

The inductive proximity sensor detects the metallic object which is present next to their active side. This
sensor operates under the electrical principal of inductance where a fluctuating current induces an
electromotive force(EMF) in a target object. These non-contact proximity sensors detect ferrous targets,
ideally mild steel thicker than one millimetre. They consist of four major components: a ferrite core with
coils, an oscillator, a Schmitt trigger, and an output amplifier. This sensor has 2 main versions and they
are,

Unshielded: Electromagnetic field generated by the coil is unrestricted, allowing for wider and greater
sensing distances

Shielded: Electromagnetic field generated is concentrated in the front, where sides of the sensor coil are
covered up

Working Principle of Inductive Proximity Sensor

The oscillator creates a symmetrical, oscillating magnetic field that radiates from the ferrite core and coil
array at the sensing face. When a ferrous target enters this magnetic field, small independent electrical
currents (eddy currents) which are induced on the metal’s surface.
An inductive proximity sensor has the frequency range from 10 to 20 Hz in ac, or 500 Hz to 5 kHz in dc.
Because of magnetic field limitations, inductive sensors have a relatively narrow sensing range like from
fractions of millimetres to 60 mm on an average.
Due to this, load will be caused on the sensor that decreases the electromagnetic field amplitude. If the
metal object moves towards the proximity sensor, the eddy current will increase accordingly. Thus, the
load on the oscillator will increase, which decreases the field amplitude.
The schmitt trigger block monitors the amplitude of the oscillator and at particular level (predetermined
level) the trigger circuit switches on or off the sensor. If the metal object or target is moved away from
the proximity sensor, then the amplitude of the oscillator will increase.

The above image shows the waveform of the inductive proximity sensor oscillator in the presence of the
target and in the absence of the target.
Nowadays, inductive proximity sensors are available with different operating voltages. These inductive
proximity sensors are available in AC, DC, and AC/DC modes (universal modes). The operating range of
the proximity sensor circuits is from 10V to 320V DC and 20V to 265V AC.

Advantages of Inductive Proximity Sensors

1. Contactless detection
2. Environment adaptability- resistant to common conditions seen in industrial areas such as dust
and dirt
3. Capable and versatile in metal sensing
4. High switching rate
5. No moving parts, ensuring a longer service life
Disadvantages of Inductive Proximity Sensors
1. Lack in detection range, averaging a max range of up to 60 mm
2. Can only detect metal objects
3. External conditions like extreme temperatures, cutting fluids or chemical affects on the
performance of the sensor.

Applications of Inductive Proximity Sensors

1. Machine tolls, assembly line, automotive industry
2. Detection of metal parts in harsh environments
3. High speed moving parts