Best Proximity Sensor Manufacturers of 2023
Proximity Sensor Market Overview
List of Proximity Sensor Manufacturers in the Global Market
Euchner-USA Proximity Sensor
The company was founded in France and sells its products all over the world. It is manufactured in large quantities, such as switch socket fan regulator distribution board MCB, and so on.
Which is ranked second in terms of switch sockets but first in terms of MCBs. It is the No. 1 brand in India due to the trust and positive response of many customers, as well as its trustworthy services.
Homepage: https://www.legrandgroup.com/en
Legrand MCB : https://www.export.legrand.com/en/mcbs-acbs-mccbshttps://www.legrandgroup.com/en/cybersecurity-connected-products
About: https://www.legrandgroup.com/en/group/our-history
Solutions: https://www.legrandgroup.com/en/our-solutions
- Material: High quality brass nickel -plated shell
- Sensitive Detection: ABS material detection surface
- Strong anti-interference: TVS tube protection, strong anti-interference ability
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Euchner-USA | 1953 | Germany | Chris Gerges |
IFM Proximity Sensor
Fiber optic through-beam proximity sensor manufacturer. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), glass, and quartz are examples of fiber materials. The temperature outside ranges from -58 to +315 degrees Celsius. Clamping rings, hexagon nuts, and O-rings are also included as accessories.
Homepage: https://www.ifm.com/us/en
About: https://www.ifm.com/us/en/us/company/ifm-global-50
Capacitive Sensor: https://www.ifm.com/us/en/category/200_010_030
Inductive Sensor: https://www.ifm.com/us/en/category/200_010_010
- Material: ABS plastic shell
- Detect Distance: 4mm; Detect Object: Metal / Iron
- Wire Type : 3 Wire Type (Brown, Black, Blue)
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Ifm Efector Inc. | 1969 | Malvern | Roger Varma |
Locon Inductive Proximity Sensor
High temperature inductive proximity sensor manufacturer. There are also high-temperature capacitive and photoelectric sensor options. Sensors can withstand temperatures ranging from -40 to +250 degrees Celsius and are available in a variety of threaded housing sizes. Short circuit and overload protection are also included, as well as reverse polarity protection on the supply voltage and a 100K Ohm load resistor. IP67 protection.
Homepage: https://www.locon.net/
About: https://www.locon.net/about/
Inductive Sensor: https://www.locon.net/inductive/
Capacitive: https://www.locon.net/capacitive/
- Material:Plastic, Alloy
- Diameter of Column Sensor: 12mm
- Detecting Distance : 4mm
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Loco Sensor Systems, Inc. | 1986 | Los Angeles | Gary Bales |
Fargo Proximity Sensor
Controls, including proximity sensors, are manufactured by this company. Inductive proximity sensors detect metallic objects at distances ranging from 0.1 mm to 60 mm, while capacitive proximity sensors detect metallic and nonmetallic objects at distances ranging from 0 mm to 35 mm. Magnetic proximity sensors with an operating distance of 10 mm are used to detect the presence of permanent magnets, and photoelectric proximity sensors with an operating distance ranging from 10 cm to 40 cm use light-sensitive elements to detect objects. Proximity sensors are CE certified.
Homepage: https://fargocontrols.com/
About: https://fargocontrols.com/aboutus.html
Magnetic Proximity Sensor: https://fargocontrols.com/sensors/magnetic.html
PhotoelectricProximity Sensor: https://fargocontrols.com/sensors/photoelectric.html
- Material: Metal and Plastic
- Wire type: DC 3-wire type (Black, Brown, Blue)
- Theory: Inductive Sensor
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Fargo Controls, Inc. | 1983 | Eatontown, New Jersey | Mike Fargo |
Automation Direct Proximity Sensor
Inductive, magnetic, and capacitive proximity position sensors are available from this distributor. There are several sizes available. Stainless steel or polybutylene terephthalate housings, cylinder and rectangular designs, mechanical stability, and flush or non-flush installation are among the features that vary by model. Detects metallic, non-metal, and non-contact objects. AutoCAD files are welcome.
Homepage: https://www.automationdirect.com/adc/home/home
About: https://about.automationdirect.com/
Products: https://www.automationdirect.com/products
Magnetic Proximity Sensor: https://www.automationdirect.com/adc/shopping/catalog/sensors_-z-_encoders/magnetic_proximity_sensors#sort=undefined%20desc&start=0
- Material :Plastic, Alloy
- Theory : Inductive Sensor
- Detecting Distance : 4mm
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Automation Direct | 1994 | Atlanta | Tim Hohmann |
Steven Sensors
Industrial proximity sensor process automation product distributor, including proximity sensors and intrinsically safe proximity sensors. Inductive proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, shielded sensors, rectangular proximity sensors, flat pack proximity sensors, NPN shielded sensors, unshielded proximity sensors, SPDT shielded proximity sensors, shielded inductive proximity sensors, and PNP style inductive proximity sensors are examples of the various types. Linear sensors come in a variety of styles, sizes, and configurations.
Homepage: https://stevenengineering.com/
Products: https://shop.stevenengineering.com/storefrontCommerce/categorybrowse.do
Photoelectric Sensor: https://shop.stevenengineering.com/storefrontCommerce/subcategorybrowse.do?subcategory-name=Photoelectric+Sensors&path=Catalog%2f%2f%2f%2fSensing¤tPage=1&numResults=10
Magnetic Sensor: https://shop.stevenengineering.com/storefrontCommerce/subcategorybrowse.do?subcategory-name=Magnetic+Sensors&path=Catalog%2f%2f%2f%2fSensing¤tPage=1&numResults=10
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Steven Engineering | 1975 | California, United States | Paul Burk |
Kinequip Proximity Switch
Electrical, fluid power, automation, vacuum, and compressed air systems, equipment, and components are distributed by this company. Air compressors, pumps, valves, motors, fittings, filters, proximity sensors, and gauges are examples of products. Specialty vehicle cameras, cables, voltage and current meters, circuit breakers, and switches are also manufactured by the company. Air compressor training, maintenance, inspection, consultation, installation, repair, rental, and audit services are among the services provided. There are also laser cutting, engraving, and marking services, as well as 3D laser scanning and printing.
Homepage: https://www.kinequip.com/
About: https://www.kinequip.com/pages/about-us
Capacitive Sensor:https://www.kinequip.com/collections/capacitive
Ultrasonic Sensor: https://www.kinequip.com/collections/ultrasonic
Photoelectric Sensor: https://www.kinequip.com/pages/search-results-page?q=photoelectric
- Material : ABS and nickel-plated brass
- Wire Type: DC 3 wires - brown (positive electrode), black (output signal), blue (negative electrode)
- Detection distance: 4mm
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Kinequip Inc. | 1946 | Amherst, New York | John Mistretta |
Reed Rex Proximity Sensor
Relay, switch, and reed proximity sensor manufacturer. There are numerous types, specifications, and features to choose from. Sensing, testing, and measuring applications include medical, automation motion, security proximity, and fluid leveling. Custom reed switch trimming and forming is also available. Automotive, marine, military, automation, and consumer appliances are among the industries served.
Homepage: https://www.reed-rex.com/
Proximity Reed Sensor: https://reedrexprod.wpengine.com/?page_id=269
Reed Switches: https://www.reed-rex.com/?page_id=148
Reed Sensor: https://reedrexprod.wpengine.com/?page_id=323
- Material : Plastic and Alloy
- Detecting Distance : 4mm
- Theory : Inductive Sensor
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Reed Rex | 1938 | Fort Worth, Texas, U.S. | Rex Reed |
Smith Sensors
Custom manufacturer of proximity sensors for applications requiring the monitoring of metal part movement. Proximity sensors are used in applications such as counting, safety, control, turbine flow meters, and others. These magnetic proximity sensor units provide high-accuracy no-drag flow measurement. Proximity sensors can be powered by a variety of supply voltages and are compatible with digital equipment. There are two and three wire models available.
Homepage: https://www.smith-systems-inc.com/
About: https://www.smith-systems-inc.com/who-we-serve/
Products: https://www.smith-systems-inc.com/products-and-services/
Proximity Sensor: https://www.smith-systems-inc.com/products/proximity-sensors/
- Material: Brass(nickel plated)
- Sensing distance : 5mm
- Theory: Inductive Sesor
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Smith Systems Inc | 1952 | Germany | Jim Stelter |
Rockwell Proximity Sensor
Presence sensing devices, including inductive proximity sensors, are manufactured by this company. Tubular, rectangular, ring, and slot sensors are all available. There are numerous models, specifications, and features to choose from. Condition sensing, limit switches, RFID, capacitive and ultrasonic sensors are also available. Asset management, maintenance and repair, consulting, design and engineering, integration, project management, and training services are all available. Automotive, food and beverage, life sciences, oil and gas, power generation, mining, marine, water/wastewater, entertainment, electronics, and semiconductor industries are among those served.
Homepage: https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us.html
Products: https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/products/hardware/allen-bradley/sensors-and-switches.html
About: https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/company/about-us.html
Photoelectric Sensor: https://www.rockwellautomation.com/en-us/products/hardware/allen-bradley/sensors-and-switches/presence-sensors/photoelectric-sensors.html
- Material: Brass(nickel plated)
- Sensing distance: 2mm
- Sensing side diameter: M08
Company Name | Found Year | Country | CEO |
Rockwell Automation | 1903 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. | Blake D. Moret |
What is a Proximity Sensor?
A proximity sensor is a non-contact device that detects the presence of an object when it enters its field of view, also known as the “target.” Depending on the type of proximity sensor, the sensor may detect a target via sound, light, infrared radiation (IR), or electromagnetic fields. Phones, recycling facilities, self-driving cars, anti-aircraft systems, and production lines all use proximity sensors. There are numerous varieties of proximity sensors, and they all detect targets differently. The inductive proximity sensor and the capacitive proximity sensor are the two types of proximity sensors that are most frequently utilized.
What are Proximity Switches?
The terms proximity switch and proximity sensor are frequently used interchangeably, but they should not be confused. A proximity sensor, as previously defined, is a non-contact component that detects the presence of objects within its sensing range. A proximity switch, on the other hand, is a specific component that opens or closes the electrical circuit when the sensor detects the absence or presence of an object.
Features of Proximity Sensor
We’ll look at the proximity sensor’s features to better understand what it’s all about. It has the following features:
Contactless Sensing
Since proximity sensors do not physically touch the object they are detecting, the object is not scratched or otherwise harmed. Proximity Sensors are able to detect the presence of an object electrically, without touching it, unlike devices like limit switches that detect an object by making contact with it.
Unaffected by Surface Condition
Proximity sensors are virtually completely unaffected by an object’s surface color because they detect physical changes in an object.
Suitability for a Wide Range of Applications
In contrast to typical optical detection, proximity sensors may be used in moist environments and throughout a wide variety of temperatures. They work in a temperature range of -40 to 200 °C.
Phones with Android or iOS operating systems can also use proximity sensors. It uses basic IR technology to turn the display on and off depending on your needs. For instance, it disables your display when you’re using the phone so you won’t unintentionally activate anything while holding it up to your cheeks!
Longer Service Life
Since a proximity sensor relies on semiconductor outputs, its operation is not reliant on moving parts. As a result, it often has a longer service life than standard sensors.
High-Speed Respons
Proximity sensors give a faster reaction rate when compared to switches, where touch is necessary for detecting.
Chemical and Dirt Resistant
Proximity Sensors, in contrast to optical detection techniques, can be employed in environments with water or oil use. Dirt, grease, or water on the object being detected have almost no impact on the detection process. There are various models with fluororesin casings for good chemical resistance.
Non-physical Contact
Proximity Sensors are impacted by environmental conditions, items in the immediate area, and other Sensors, as opposed to switches, which depend on physical touch. Interaction with other sensors has an impact on proximity sensors, both inductive and capacitive. Because of this, care must be taken to avoid mutual interference when installing them. Inductive proximity sensors must be protected from the effects of nearby metallic items, while capacitive proximity sensors must be protected from the effects of all nearby objects.
Two-wire sensors exist
Signal and power lines are integrated. Internal components could be harmed if only the power line is wired. Always add a load.
Proximity Sensor: Operating Principle
Proximity Sensor Types
There are several sorts of proximity sensors used in different applications but each type of sensor detects an object in a different way; they are inductive proximity, capacitive proximity, ultrasonic proximity, and optical proximity. But the most frequently utilized proximity sensors are inductive proximity & capacitive proximity.
Inductive Proximity Sensor
These sensors for metal detection are non-contact devices. The induction law is largely what drives this type of sensor. When a metallic object comes close to it, the oscillator is driven through the coil. This sensor comes in two variations and contains four crucial parts, which are covered in more detail below.
Unshielded and shielded inductive proximity sensors are available.
Shielded Version
In the shielded version, the sensor coil sides are covered, concentrating the electromagnetic field created in the face.
Unshielded Version
The generated electromagnetic field through the sensor coil is clear in the unshielded form, allowing for longer and wider detecting distances. There are four main parts to an inductive proximity sensor: an oscillator, a coil, a Schmitt trigger, and an output switching circuit.
An electromagnetic detecting field can be produced when the sensor coil is given an AC. Eddy currents can arise when a metal object is positioned close to the magnetic field, changing the coil’s inductance. When the coil’s inductance changes, the circuit adjusts the sensor’s output switch, which is continuously monitoring.
Here, these sensors constantly oscillate in the absence of a target, and only when a target is present will the switch be activated. The inductive proximity sensor is mostly utilized in industrial and security applications such as metal object identification, the detection of landmines, the creation of automated machines, etc.
Capacitive Proximity Sensor
These contactless sensors are used to detect both metallic and non-metallic items, such as powders, liquids, granular materials, etc. This sensor detects changes in capacitance to function.
It has an oscillator, switching circuit for the output, and a Schmitt trigger, just like the inductive kind.
The key distinction is that it has two charging plates, one for capacitance that is inside and one that is exterior. The connection between these two plates can be made by using the external plate as the detecting surface and connecting the inside plate to the oscillator.
There is an electrostatic field created by this type of proximity sensor. When an object enters the detecting zone, the plates’ capacitance rises as well, increasing the oscillator’s amplitude gain. The sensor’s output switch is turned on by this gain. These sensors only begin to oscillate when the target is nearby.
Among the uses for capacitive proximity sensors include industrial operations, moisture management, touch applications, and others.
Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor
These sensors are a particular type of proximity sensor that is applied in a number of manufacturing and automation applications. This sensor’s primary functions are object detection and distance measuring. These sensors are employed in the preparation of food, drinks, and various packaging applications.
These sensors have a frequency range that is about 20 kHz higher than the human hearing range. This sensor’s fundamental working principle is to send an ultrasonic signal and receive a signal in return. The target’s distance can be calculated using the time difference between these signals.
Even while they can also be installed in separate units, such as with some photoelectric sensors through separate detectors and emitters, a typical design includes both the transmitter and the receiver within the same physical enclosure. The amount of wiring and installation can be reduced by placing the transmitter and receiver inside the same unit.
Since these sensors detect sound rather than light, they can be used in situations where optical sensors cannot, such as detecting plain plastic labels and items or highly reflective surfaces. Additionally, they are resistant to common pollutants including dust, moisture, and ambient light.
Optical Proximity Sensor
Generally speaking, these sensors are less expensive than inductive and capacitive varieties. These may be arranged into small spaces, making them useful in automated systems. They are also known as light beam sensors.
A sensor and a light source are both present in an optical proximity sensor. While a light source produces light, a sensor is employed to detect it. The photodiode-like semiconductor used as the light sensor in this sensor typically produces less light after being illuminated by light.
Different proximity sensor kinds, such as through-beam, retro-reflective, and diffuser, are available. Computer alarm systems, copier machines, light fixtures, etc. are just a few examples of where optical proximity sensors are used.
Magnetic Proximity Sensor
The magnetic proximity sensor merely uses mechanical principles to detect the magnetic field. They locate magnetic targets by detecting their magnetic fields, which serve as indicators of their presence. It starts the switching process once it is within the sensor’s detecting range.
These sensors are mostly employed for non-contact location detection outside of the normal inductive sensor ranges. This sensor uses Hall Effect sensors in lieu of GMR inductive, reed switches, magnetoresistive, and variable reluctance as its operating principles.
Proximity Sensor Applications
Proximity sensors can be used in a variety of settings and for a wide range of applications. They are useful in any application where an object must be detected within a specific range. This may include:
– Detection of standard object position
– Transportation, logistics, and supply chain management
– Quality control and inspection
– Process management
– detection of levels
– Manufacturing and processing of food
– Agriculture
They can also be used in environments where oil or water is present, giving them a significant advantage over other detection methods. Depending on the dielectric constant of the object, capacitive proximity sensors can detect media such as water, resin, and metal. As discussed below, different types of sensors are best suited to detecting different objects:
– Capacitive proximity sensors – metals, liquids, water, resin, powders
– Inductive proximity sensors – metals including aluminum, copper, brass, and iron
– Magnetic proximity sensors – magnets