Nearly every application with moving parts requires position sensors to operate properly. Position sensors produce a signal that varies as the element the sensors are monitoring varies. Applications ranging from vending machines to sports cars use these instruments.

Position sensor manufacturers offer some sensors that are useful in a variety of applications, while other sensors serve a specific purpose. Industrial position sensors that are exposed to high heat and vibration must be designed to function in extreme conditions. When purchasing position sensors, consider the following:

1. Order throttle position sensors for use in internal combustion engines.

2. Know that camshaft and crankshaft position sensors are required for a vehicle's engine to operate correctly.

3. Purchase linear position sensors for a variety of applications.

4. Buy a position sensor system for complex applications.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase throttle position sensors

A throttle position sensor is used in an internal combustion engine to monitor the throttle's position. The position sensor is typically located on a vehicle's butterfly spindle so it can monitor the position of the throttle valve butterfly. The sensor tells the engine how to react to certain conditions.

I recommend: Buy throttle position sensors from Everight Position Technologies. The company offers sensors with multiple input and output combinations. Cherry Electrical Products is a certified worldwide custom manufacturer of position sensors. Browse the company's inventory of throttle position sensors.

Order camshaft position sensors and crankshaft position sensors

Camshaft position sensors and crankshaft position sensors are used in the automotive industry. A magnetic pulse communicates with the vehicle's computer to adjust engine timing, engine firing orders and engine speed. These types of sensors are magnetic position sensors that read a tooth or flat-spotted pulley or ring to determine engine variables.

I recommend: Order magnetic camshaft and crankshaft position sensors from Honeywell Sensing and Control. In addition to the automotive industry, the company offers magnetic position sensors for utility meters, vending machines, welding equipment and home appliances. Find automotive position sensors at Custom Sensors & Technologies. The company offers position sensors designed specifically for industrial and agricultural vehicle applications.

Use linear position sensors for a variety of applications

A linear position sensor determines the distance traveled by a movable element. Linear position sensors are used in a wide range of industries. Scientific, aerospace, industrial, military and automotive fields all require precise measurements of a linear object.

I recommend: UniMeasure offers four different series of linear position products. The company's position sensors are suitable for a variety of industries and applications. Browse the inventory at Novotechnik. The manufacturer offers non-contact linear pressure sensors.

Buy industrial position sensor systems

For complex applications, consider a sensor system that measures several variables, including position, vibration, proximity and displacement. These capacitive sensor systems are ideal for particle accelerator, diesel fuel motor, linear inductive motor, high vacuum and cryogenic process applications.

I recommend: Order a position sensor system from Capacitec. The system operates in temperatures up to 1,600 degrees F. MTI Instruments offers non-contact position sensor systems that provide sum and difference measurements.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most industrial applications require a high temperature position sensor. Check the specifications of the sensor to make sure it functions at the heat your application generates before placing your order.