Absolute encoders are considered ideal for applications where a power outage requires machinery to reorient without having to reconfigure any of its settings.

This, according to Gerry Bryant, managing director of sensor solutions specialist Countapulse Controls, is because an absolute encoder is suited to applications where positional information is required periodically and not continuously.

“When power is restored, the system master or controller will identify the position as soon as the encoder starts relaying information again,” he explains.

Generally, absolute rotary encoders are used as these offer absolute accuracy in determining the position of an object, but as can be seen from the scenario described above this is not sufficient. The encoder cannot simply collect feedback data. It needs to be sent somewhere in a language that can be interpreted by the system. Bryant explains that absolute encoders use binary coding which can be translated into many different protocols.

Countapulse Controls is the official southern African distributor for the Hengstler ACURO range of absolute encoders. These quality sensors have found favour in applications where both speed and position are required, and where there is no room for error.

Using a static reference point, the Hengstler absolute encoder will determine the speed or position of an object and can be configured to measure, monitor and control the linear movement and/or acceleration.

Innovative engineering has resulted in an absolute encoder that has optimised functionality while being easy to operate. Designed as a modular system, the absolute encoder can be configured to allow the correct variant for an application taking factors such as motor feedback and automation into account.

The Hengstler ACURO is equipped with an open BiSS sensor interface allowing for optimal integration into any system.

Johannesburg-based, Countapulse Controls has an in-depth understanding of the application of absolute rotary encoders and is able to assist the market in selection of the best fit solution for a given application.