POSITAL has added an optional Profinet communications interface to its explosion-proof IXARC rotary encoder family. These devices have been designed to comply with ATEX/IECEx directives for Category 3 electrical products and are suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 21 conditions (potential exposure to hazardous levels of explosive gases and dust concentrations). Areas of application for these encoders include oil and gas facilities, underground mines, chemical plants, milling operations and grain-handling facilities.

POSITAL’s ATEX-certified encoders are built with aluminum or Type 316L stainless steel housings that are designed to contain any electrical hot spots or sparking and to provide environmental protection ratings of up to IP67. Based on POSITAL’s optical measurement technology, these encoders can deliver up to 16-bit resolution in single-turn configurations or 14-bit resolution for multi-turn models. This technology ensures that position measurement integrity is maintained even if movement occurs when system power is unavailable. No backup batteries are needed, reducing maintenance costs. IXARC encoders can be ordered with a wide range of mounting options to ensure that they can be readily adapted to many kinds of equipment.

The new Profinet interface makes these devices compatible with one of the most widely used industrial Ethernet technologies. IXARC Profinet encoders have an integrated IRT switching capability that adds flexibility when it comes to designing the network topology. A built-in bootloader enables in-situ firmware updates, while six diagnostic LEDs simplify setup and troubleshooting. IXARC encoders are available with a removable connection cap, which allows users to choose between axial or radial cable exits.

Finding the right IXARC sensor for a particular application is straightforward. The web site www.posital.com provides a powerful product finder tool that lets users specify product features required for each application and then quickly zero in on the best available products.

For more information, visit www.posital.com.