A new series of ultrasonic distance sensors is said to be setting new standards in terms of range and integration options.

Wenglor’s ultrasonic distance sensors from the new U1RT series combine the established R format with the ultrasonic technology of the U1KT and UMD product series, which, with IO-Link 1.1 and Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, offers flexible setting options and data storage.

In through-beam mode, the device can operate up to 2 000 mm and in reflex operation up to 1 200 mm. In addition to the application range at temperatures between -30 °C to 60 °C, it is also possible to use the sensors in synchronous mode. Two independent switching outputs enable the measurement of minimum and maximum levels. Additional features include all-round visible light-emitting diode indicators and a high IP67/IP68 degree of protection.

The sensors are said to offer high flexibility in use, made possible not only by the low installation depth, but also by the availability of PNP and NPN variants. The integrated IO-Link 1.1 interface with COM3 standard enables fast and secure communication with controllers. With the Smart Sensor Profile, the product can be integrated into IO-Link in a standardised way and can send regular status messages.

The integrated NFC interface also allows the sensors to be configured without power and wirelessly using the WenglorApp which is particularly useful for applications with high quantities and helps to save time. The sensors can be adjusted directly using the teach-in key. The company asserts that the long ranges combined with the tried-and-tested R format and smart integration options make the U1RT series an ideal all-rounder for the industry.

In addition to compact formats such as the U1KT housings, with a 32 mm x 16 mm x 12 mm size, and the R format, with a 56.5 mm x 26 mm x 24 mm size, the ultrasonic sensor product category also includes the metric designs in M18 and M30 format (UMD and UMF) made of stainless steel as well as the cuboidal UMS sensors, sized at 81 mm x 55 mm x 30/47 mm, for large working distances up to 6 000 mm and the special U1H format as a fork sensor. These categories of sensor are suitable for almost any application.

Ultrasonic sensors are said to be ideal for contactless detection of transparent, gloss and dark objects and reflective surfaces and materials of all kinds – whether solid or liquid, rough or smooth, porous or translucent. In addition, these sensors are not negatively affected by environmental conditions such as dust, steam, dirt or the influence of ambient light. By emitting and receiving pulsed ultrasonic waves, the sensors use the time it takes for sound to be reflected by the object to determine its distance – the same way that bats in nature use ultrasound. The technology can be used for a range of applications, such as level measurement, stack height checks, checking slack in roller material, checking for the presence of objects such as cans or bottles in automatic return machines.