Precision linear motion products supplier, Isotech Inc. (www.isotechinc.com) has integrated non-contact GMR (Giant Magneto Restrictive) sensor technology to its Airpel air cylinder actuators, enabling it to deliver unrivalled accuracy in linear position feedback.

The borosilicate glass cylinder of the actuators has been fitted with specially designed stainless steel piston, creating a true air bearing airflow effect on the piston. This eliminates friction leading to extended piston life.

“Adding the GMR switching sensors means that Isotech can now provide the Airpels with the most precise and accurate magnetically activated cylinder sensors on the market,” noted Joe Casillo, President at Isotech.

“And because the sensors are so easy to install, our customers have no problems retrofitting their existing Airpel actuators.”

GMR sensor chips provide a highly compact profile without interfering into the system design. They are housed in a durable, small plastic shell that comes with a LED window, offering a good view of the switching signal.

To install the sensors, users have to slide them into the aluminum T-slot tracks mounted on the air cylinders. The tracks are permanently bonded on the cylinder and are positioned based on customer specifications. Airpel cylinders with switch-activating magnet and sensor tracks connected to the air cylinder piston are also available.

Isotech also offers GMR sensors with NPN or PNP output, coupled with matching accessory extension cables in either two and five meter lengths. Operating at 10-30 V DC, the sensors have < or = 0.2 mm repeatability.

Isotech’s new Airpel air cylinder actuators offer longetivity and smooth motion in a wide range of pneumatic driving devices for various applications such as positioning, tensioning, weighing, calibration, holding/clamping fragile materials and measuring.