Indication units
The Alfa Laval Indication unit - Inductive is an electrical feedback unit that offers cost-effective operation and standard functionality for automated indication on the inductive side of Alfa Laval butterfly valves. Straightforward and easy to use, this valve position indicator provides information about valve operating status 24/7 while boosting productivity.
Basic information about the position of valves used in hygienic applications
- Durable and cost-effective
- Precision operation
- Long service life
- Easy to operate
This valve position indicator is compatible with any programmable logic controller (PLC) with a PNP/NPN
interface. The electrical indication unit is designed with inductive sensors for use with Alfa Laval butterfly valves in hygienic applications across the dairy, food, beverage, biotechnology, pharmaceutical and many other industries.
How does the indication units work?
Inductive proximity sensor
This non-contact proximity sensor is commonly used as a valve position indicator and consists of an oscillator, which creates high-frequency electromagnetic fields that radiate from the sensing face. Each time a conductive metal (damping target) approaches the sensor, it reduces the electromagnetic field, thus changing the voltage of the oscillator. A trigger circuit converts this analog signal into an on/off digital signal and amplifies the output to 24VDC. Inductive proximity sensors are widely used for valve indication and are suitable for integration with valve position sensors in various industrial applications, including indicating butterfly valve positions.
Hall proximity sensor
This non-contact proximity sensor consists of a Hall transistor, which converts Hall sensing into an on/off digital signal and amplifies the output to 24VDC. The sensor indicates the valve position by using a magnetic field (North Pole) to measure the distance from the relative position of the indication pin on the valve stem. Hall proximity sensors are often used as valve position sensors, especially for indicating butterfly valve positions, providing reliable valve indication in automated systems.
Namur sensor
NAMUR is most associated with two-wire DC proximity sensors, which are often used for valve position indication in hazardous environments. Such sensors must be wired to isolator barriers or intrinsically safe devices. The NAMUR proximity sensor’s operation is similar to that of a variable resistor. As a metal target approaches the face of the NAMUR sensor, a change in impedance in the sensor occurs and, therefore, the current draw of the sensor is reduced. This triggers the galvanic isolator’s amplifier, which activates the isolator’s switch and thereby provides an on/off digital output signal to the PLC system. NAMUR sensors are suitable for use as valve position sensors, including for indicating butterfly valve positions.
Safe, reliable, and economical valve indication
Alfa Laval indication units are cost-effective digital devices with up to two feedback signals that are mounted directly on the valve yoke, providing reliable valve indication and feedback on the valve’s open/closed position. These valve position indicators (side indicator and brackets) may be used on any Alfa Laval valve, but are especially competitive solutions for Alfa Laval SSV single seat valves, mixproof valves (brackets), and for indicating butterfly valve positions. These units serve as essential valve position sensors in automated process systems.
Individual brackets and inductive valve position sensors
Alfa Laval offers an extensive portfolio of brackets and inductive valve position sensors for use with any Alfa Laval valve that requires special support or an alternate sensing interface. These sensors are ideal for precise valve indication and can be used for indicating butterfly valve positions as well as other valve types.
Options
Sensors with and without fixed cable and side indicators with M12, 5-pin plug connectors, including the plug counterpart, are available for connection to AC/DC power supply. These options ensure flexible integration of valve position sensors and reliable valve indication in various process environments.
Close at Hand catalogue
The hygienic equipment product catalogue "Close at hand" includes product leaflets, links to animations, brochures and lists for ordering purposes.
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Service
Our dedicated Global Service Network supports you with parts and expertise, wherever you are, whenever you need it. By ensuring greater uptime, availability and optimization, we help bring you peace of mind, and maximize your return on investment. We can work with you to integrate our services into an Alfa Laval Service Agreement for predictable and worry-free operations.
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Part of a broad Sensing and control range
Alfa Laval offers a comprehensive range of Sensing and control intended for hygienic applications in the dairy, food, beverage, home care, personal care, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
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