New linear position sensor has extended environmental specification in a thoroughly proven design for high-performance motorsports

New VXP includes improved sealing and materials for extended reliability, longer life and higher temperature range

November 2103: Variohm EuroSensor has introduced a new potentiometric linear position sensor featuring IP67 sealing, improved reliability and increased operational temperature capability. Aimed specifically at the demanding motorsports industry, the VXP series is based upon and effectively replaces the thoroughly field-proven VLPM potentiometric sensor that Variohm have manufactured for several years along with its industrial application oriented sister version, the VLP series. Design improvements across both versions include a new dual-lip sealing arrangement, and specialised motorsport materials on the VXP that have enabled an IP67 rating and a higher temperature capability of -40 to + 150 ºC with a short term ceiling of 175 ºC. 

The new VXP linear position sensor is an absolute position measuring device available in nine measurement range versions for stroke lengths from 25 to 290 mm. The impressive sensor specification includes a typical independent linearity of +/- 0.1%, a positioning repeatability to 0.01 mm, shock rating of 50 g for 10 milliseconds, and a maximum speed up to 10 metres per second. Working life is better than 25 million cycles. With its durable 15 mm square anodised aluminium housing, the sensor features self-aligning spherical bearing mounts for straightforward installation. Through the complete range, the ratio of the extended length to the body length remains the smallest available in the industry – perfect for the often restricted mounting space found in motorsports. 

The conductive plastic resistance element technology utilised in the VXP and VLP series combines a resistance element built up by a specialised and patented technique using multiple layers of printed inks that combine with multi-fingered precious metal wipers secured in a unique elastomer damped mechanism. This sensor element technology maintains a constant, smooth and uninterrupted contact even under the demanding shock and vibration conditions that are typically found in motorsports. Applications for the new VXP series will include ride height, steering angle, gearshift and suspension for 4- and 2-wheel high-performance autosports.

Variohm supplies the motorsports industry with a wide range of sensors and transducers including rotary and linear position sensors in contacting and non-contacting technologies, in a range of mounting styles and environmental ratings with wide choice of analogue and digital outputs.