Rotary Encoder Applications

A rotary encoder is a type of position sensor, they measure rotary movements and displacement and can either be absolute or incremental. A rotary encoder is an electromechanical feedback device used to provide information on position, speed, count or direction.

Industries for Rotary Encoder Applications

Rotary encoders are incredibly diverse and are used across many different industries. Some industries which they are used within regularly are;

• Packaging
• Food and beverage
• Printing
• Textiles
• Mobile vehicle
• Aerospace
• Material Handling
• Robotics
• Lift Industry
• Automation

Rotary Encoder Applications

Rotary encoders are widely used in applications which require monitoring or control of mechanical systems. Some of the more common applications for encoders that we often are approached for are;

Motor Feedback – rotary encoders are used to control the speed and direction of electric motors. They can control multiple axes of motion. A shaft encoder is mounted directly to the motor for this application. These are used in packaging and labelling machines, textile manufacturing machinery or the lift industry.

Cut-to-length applications – a rotary encoder is well suited to this type of application; as the disc rotates a fixed number of pulses are generated which will determine the length of travel. Once the programmed number of pulses has been reached the cutting device will activate. This is a repetitive, automated process ensuring that all of the objects are cut to the same length consistently.  

Filling applications – in bottle filling machine factories, encoders are used on the production line to give feedback on the position of the bottles, once they are in the correct position, the fill system is activated and the fluid begins dispensing

Conveying – conveyors are used throughout many industries, particularly for manufacturing. Rotary encoders are used to control the speed of the conveyer belt as well as the direction of the movement. They are required in warehouse distribution systems, baggage handling systems and case-packing systems.

Ball Screw Positioning – within this application rotary motion is converted to linear motion, uses include; machine tool placement, industrial lifting jacks and printer carriage positioning.

Lift Industry Applications- Rotary Encoders are used with the lift industry for the position of the lift within the lift shaft either directly within the lift motor or a lift measuring system incorporating a belt and wheel driven mechanical arrangement.

Robotics applications – rotary encoders are used for the precise positioning of robotics joints. Usually, encoders which are small in size are best suited to these applications.

Different types of Encoder

There are different types of encoders which are suited to different applications. Encoders can be either incremental or absolute and either shafted or hollow shaft.

Incremental encoders can measure the change in position but not the absolute position; if power is lost they will start measuring from 0 when power returns.  Absolute encoders can measure the change in position as well as the absolute position and the position is retained when power is lost. Find out more about the difference between absolute and incremental encoders here.

Encoders from Variohm

We can offer a full range of encoders from our supplier Wachendorff;

• Absolute Hollow Shaft Encoders
• Absolute shaft encoder
• Incremental Hollow Shaft Encoders
• Incremental shaft Encoders

The Encoders we can offer have the following benefits;

• Rugged and hard-wearing to suit various applications
• Standard range as well as custom versions available
• Complete systems offered
• 5-year manufacturer warranty

Express production available to shorten lead times where requested

For more information on encoders or to discuss your application please contact us