Automation & Robotics Sensors - ABB
Sensors are the eyes and ears of any automated line. They tell a PLC when a part has arrived, how far away an object is, whether a cylinder has finished its stroke, or if a guard door is open. Choosing the right se...
Encoders convert rotary or linear motion into electrical signals that report position, speed and direction. They give the feedback that motors, conveyors, cut-to-length lines and positioning systems need for accurate control.
Encoder Types
- Incremental encoders – speed and relative position
- Absolute encoders – keep position through power loss
- Hollow and solid shaft encoders – suit mounting needs
- Measuring wheel encoders – length measurement on conveyors
- Draw wire encoders – long linear distances
Choosing an Encoder
Select resolution (pulses per revolution or bits), output type (TTL, HTL, SSI, fieldbus) and mechanical fit. Heavy-duty and stainless encoders handle shock and washdown. Match the interface to your drive or PLC.
Centro carries encoders for motion feedback and measurement.
Related categories: Automation & Robotics Sensors | Motor Feedback Sensors | Distance Sensors | Luminescence Scanner | Detection and Range Solution Sensors
Sensor cables carry power and signals between sensors and controllers. The right cable resists oil, flexing, washdown and heat, which keeps sensors working reliably and cuts troubleshooting.
Cable Options
- M8 and M12 cordsets – straight and right-angle connectors
- Double-ended patch cables – connect sensors to distribution boxes
- High-flex cables – cable tracks and robot motion
- Washdown and food-grade cables – stainless connectors and special jackets
- Weld-field cables – resist spatter
Choosing a Cable
Match connector size, pin count and coding to the sensor. Choose jacket material (PVC, PUR, TPE) for the environment and length for the run. LED connectors show sensor status at a glance.
Centro carries sensor cables and cordsets for automation and machine building.
Related categories: Automation & Robotics Sensors | Sensor Connectors | Sensor Adapters | Detection and Ranging Sensors | Inclination Sensors
RFID (radio-frequency identification) tracks parts, tools, pallets and assets without line of sight. It automates data capture and improves traceability in manufacturing and logistics.
RFID Components
- RFID readers – read and write tag data
- RFID transponders – tags for parts, carriers and tools
- Antennas – extend read zones
- Interface modules – PLC and network integration
Planning an RFID System
Define what you'll track, read distances, data needs and environment. Metal surfaces need special tags.
Centro supplies RFID systems for industrial tracking.
Shop by type: RFID Readers | RFID Transponders
Related categories: Automation & Robotics Sensors | Inductive Sensors | Ultrasonic Sensors | Automation Light Grids | Temperature Sensors
$104.74
Subject to factory lead times
$2,774.14
Subject to factory lead times
$2,774.14
Subject to factory lead times
$2,569.95
Subject to factory lead times
$3,865.84
Subject to factory lead times
$217.80
Subject to factory lead times
$2,893.92
Subject to factory lead times
$4,168.02
Subject to factory lead times
$4,168.02
Subject to factory lead times
$11.10
Subject to factory lead times
$104.74
Subject to factory lead times
$2,774.14
Subject to factory lead times
$2,774.14
Subject to factory lead times
$2,569.95
Subject to factory lead times
$3,865.84
Subject to factory lead times
$217.80
Subject to factory lead times
$2,893.92
Subject to factory lead times
$4,168.02
Subject to factory lead times
$4,168.02
Subject to factory lead times
$11.10
Subject to factory lead times
- Choosing the right industrial sensor starts with identifying what you need to detect and the conditions the sensor will operate in. For detecting metal objects at close range in harsh environments, inductive proximity sensors are the most reliable choice — they use an electromagnetic field and are resistant to dirt and contamination. For non-metallic materials like plastics, liquids, or powders, capacitive sensors detect changes in capacitance and can even sense through container walls. For longer-range detection of virtually any material, photoelectric sensors use light beams and are available in through-beam, retroreflective, and diffuse configurations. For distance and level measurement, ultrasonic sensors use sound waves while laser sensors offer high-precision alternatives. Magnetic cylinder sensors detect piston position inside pneumatic cylinders and are standard in pneumatic automation. Encoders measure rotational position and speed for motion control feedback. Pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flow sensors, and color and contrast sensors round out the range for specialized measurement tasks. Always match the sensor's IP rating and housing material to your environment, and verify that the output type (PNP, NPN, analog, or IO-Link) is compatible with your PLC or controller.
- These three sensor types cover the majority of object detection applications in automation, each with distinct operating principles and strengths. Inductive proximity sensors detect metal objects only, using an electromagnetic field — they are extremely reliable, resistant to dirt and contamination, and ideal for detecting machine parts, cylinders, and metal targets in harsh conditions. Capacitive sensors detect changes in capacitance and can sense both metallic and non-metallic materials — plastics, wood, liquids, powders, and granular materials — making them the go-to choice for level sensing through container walls and detecting non-metal objects. Photoelectric sensors emit and detect a light beam (visible red, infrared, or laser) and can detect virtually any material at longer sensing distances — from millimeters to tens of meters. They are available in through-beam (highest range and reliability), retroreflective (uses a reflector), and diffuse (detects light reflected from the object) configurations. The right choice depends on the target material, sensing range, and environmental conditions.
- A magnetic cylinder sensor is a compact sensor designed to detect the position of a piston inside a pneumatic cylinder without physical contact. Most modern pneumatic cylinders have a permanent magnet embedded in the piston. The magnetic cylinder sensor mounts externally on the cylinder barrel — typically in a T-slot or C-slot groove machined into the extrusion — and detects the magnet's field as the piston reaches that position, sending a discrete signal to the PLC confirming the cylinder has reached its end-of-stroke or a specific intermediate position. These sensors are ubiquitous in pneumatic automation — virtually every cylinder in a machine has at least two (one for extended, one for retracted) to confirm position before the PLC advances to the next step in the sequence. They are available with Reed switch, GMR (Giant Magneto-Resistive), or Hall-effect sensing elements.
- Encoders are sensors that measure the rotational position, speed, and direction of a shaft — converting mechanical motion into electrical signals that a PLC, drive, or controller uses for feedback and control. Incremental encoders generate pulses as the shaft rotates — the controller counts pulses to determine relative position and calculates speed from pulse frequency. They require a home or reference point to establish absolute position. Absolute encoders output a unique digital code for every angular position, providing immediate position knowledge at power-up without a reference run. Encoders are used in motion control systems (servo motor feedback), conveyor speed and position tracking (for product spacing and divert timing), winding and unwinding applications (web tension control), and any application where knowing the exact rotational position or speed of a shaft is required for process control.
- Start with four fundamental questions: What am I detecting? (metal, plastic, liquid, any material), At what distance? (millimeters, centimeters, or meters), In what environment? (clean, dusty, wet, high-temperature, washdown), and What output do I need? (discrete on/off, analog distance measurement, digital communication like IO-Link). For metal detection at short range in harsh conditions, inductive sensors are the first choice. For non-metal or liquid detection, capacitive sensors excel. For long-range detection or where the target material varies, photoelectric sensors offer the most versatility. For distance measurement, ultrasonic or laser sensors provide continuous analog output proportional to distance. Always match the sensor's IP rating and housing material to the environment, and verify that the output type (PNP, NPN, analog 4-20mA, IO-Link) is compatible with your PLC or controller input.