Ultrasonic Sensors

Determine which type of ultrasonic sensors is right for the job
By Lynn M. Harris Whether you're dealing with water levels, chemicals, underwater targets or people, there is an ultrasonic sensor built for your business. These sensors are not deterred by the physical characteristics of the target. Detection is possible regardless of color, shape, size or state of matter.

Buy ultrasonic sensors in low, mid or high ranges. You pay less for low range sensors, but you miss out on the bells and whistles that come with the software packages of high range sensors. This includes data recording and signal analysis and tracking of irregularities and equipment routes.

Consider these factors regarding ultrasonic sensors:

1. Measurement accuracy and target detection is greater than +/- 1%.

2. Sensors are immune to dirt, moisture, extreme temperatures, noise and radiation, among other elements.

3. Ultrasonic sensors are available at a variety of prices, so there is an ultrasonic sensor for your budget.

Consider ultrasonic distance sensors

Available in short and long range, ultrasonic sensors' accuracy is within the range of +/- 0.002% for distances of .5 inches to 50 feet. There is also the ultrasonic proximity sensor. Similar to distance sensors, they measure transparent objects, maintain liquid levels and can be set to exclude targets outside of a given range.
Try:  Senix Corporation offers non-contact ultrasonic distance sensors. Migatron provides sensors that house both the sensor and the controller and sensors designed for volatile environments. Contact Baumer Electric to discuss their line of proximity sensors.

Measure liquid flow with ultrasonic flow sensors

Connect this sensor to a pipe and measure a variety of liquid levels such as water, waste water and chemicals, as well as flow speeds. It isn't necessary to drill into the pipe or container for accurate measurements.
Try:  Hampton Controls, Davis Instruments and Shenitech all carry ultrasonic flow sensors, which use sound waves and directionality to determine flow rates.

Detect people and speeds using an ultrasonic motion sensor

With a range of up to 26 feet, even the slightest movement is detected by your sensor. In addition to counting people, ultrasonic motion sensors are used for scientific experiments to measure velocity, crash speeds and energy conservation.
Try:  Vernier motion sensors are used for educational purposes. Pasco sells the Motion Sensor II, which distinguishes between non-essential targets and outside noise.

Navigate the deep blue sea with underwater ultrasonic sensors

Determine ocean floor depths, locate underwater targets and even fish with these sensors. Communicate with underwater vessels and steer clear of rocks using an underwater ultrasonic sensor.
Try:  Massa supplies an underwater sonar sensor to the military, universities and oceanographic companies. Next time you go fishing, take a wireless fish finder to help you get an advantage over the fish. You can purchase them at Go2Marine.

Maintain inventory and control batches using the ultrasonic level sensor

In manufacturing, level sensors signal low material levels, when a batch run is completed, if a product meets the appropriate standards or needs to be discarded, and when to reposition parts.
Try:  Check out Automation Products Group and Gems Sensors & Control.

Use an ultrasonic fuel sensor to check fuel levels

These sensors are found in the aerospace and automotive industries. Fuel tanks carry flammable and sometimes corrosive materials, but fuel sensors withstand the extreme conditions.
Try:  Non-contact fuel sensors can be found at SSI Technologies. Morgan Electro Ceramics puts you in touch with an engineer to discuss the right fuel sensor.

• Before deciding on an ultrasonic sensor manufacturer, check into their service options. It's important to consider possible downtime and how this will affect your business.