Sensors In Green Energy

Over the years, green energy has become more and more important. There is a constant investment of resources and technology to ensure that our world can become more planet friendly when it comes to energy.

Sensors play a big part in the development of new technologies in this area and now, more than ever before, we are being faced with challenges within this area.

What is Green Energy?

Green energy is any type of energy which comes from a natural source – such as wind, water, sunlight etc and is renewable – although not all renewable energy is also green energy.

Another feature of green energy is that it must not harm the environment through releasing harmful gases, pollution or in any other way.  Because of this, often burning materials for energy is not classed as green energy, even if it is a replenishable material (such as bamboo) because burning releases CO2 into the atmosphere which is harmful.

Unlike fossil fuels which take millions of years to develop, green energy sources are easily replenished and renewable.

Types of Green Energy

There are different types of green energy already in use. These are;

• Wind power
• Solar power
• Hydro power
• Geothermal Energy
• Biomass
• Bio fuels

Sensors in Green energy

Sensors are used within green energy applications to monitor a whole host of variables;

Temperature sensors – these are required to monitor the heat levels in green energy applications. When dealing with solar power, for example, it is important to be aware of devices becoming too hot. They are also used to monitor liquid temperature in various applications.

Temperature sensors are also used on heating systems using green energy. These can be used in the home or in commercial areas.

Position and motion sensors – position sensors or motion sensors are used within many different green energy applications.

Position sensors are also used in various vehicle applications on both traditional and e-vehicles.

Pressure Sensors – pressure sensors are used in various green energy applications to monitor the levels of gases produced and the pressure levels of the applications. They can also be used to determine if there is a blockage within a component or device.

Pressure transducers are also used in engines and vehicles which are classed as “zero emission”.

Environmentally Friendly Applications for Sensors

Our sensors have been used for many different types of applications. Below are some of the environmentally friendly uses for our specific sensors. Although these applications can’t be classed as “green energy” applications as they are not completely harmless to the environment, they all have an aspect to them which is helping the environment in some way or allowing the process to become more efficient and less damaging to the environment.

E-motors on hybrid cars – temperature sensors have been used in electric cars to ensure the engine does not over heat. Electric cars are more environmentally friendly than traditional petrol/diesel cars. Sensors in this type of application have to be very small in size and highly robust to be able to withstand the harsh engine environment.

Pressure monitoring on sea vessels – our pressure sensors were used to monitor the hydrogen output on sea vessels. This made sure there were less emissions released into the atmosphere.

Servo motors and gearboxes on food waste separator – our motion control equipment has been used on a device which separates food waste such as from restaurants or supermarkets. The food waste is broken down into solids and liquid is separated - any oil can then be used as a biofuel.

Low energy cleaning machines – pressure switches are used on a low energy vacuum cleaner to ensure the suction does not become blocked. This saves energy as the device is highly efficient.

Green Energy Sensors from Variohm

Do you have a green energy application requiring a sensor? We have a full range available to browse on our website.

For more information and to discuss your application please contact us.