What are industrial mounts and what are they used for?

Industrial mounts are mechanical hardware used to physically support, position, and secure sensors, cameras, lights, small instruments, and other devices in automation and industrial applications. Mounts ensure that the device is held firmly in the correct position and orientation relative to the target — which is critical for sensors that must detect objects at specific distances and angles, cameras that must frame a consistent field of view, and lights that must illuminate a defined area. Common mount types include bases (simple fixed brackets for lightweight devices), knuckles (articulating joints that allow angular adjustment), and links (extension arms that position the device away from the mounting surface).

How do I choose the right mount for my sensor or device?

Selecting the correct mount depends on the device's size, weight, and mounting interface; the required position and angle relative to the target; the operating environment; and whether the position needs to be adjustable after installation. For small, lightweight sensors (proximity, photoelectric), a simple base or L-bracket is usually sufficient. For sensors or cameras that require angular adjustment — tilting to aim at a target, rotating to align with a conveyor — a knuckle mount provides multi-axis articulation. For applications where the sensor must be positioned away from available mounting surfaces, a link arm extends the reach. Verify that the mount's thread or bolt pattern matches the device's mounting holes, and that the mount material and finish are appropriate for the environment — stainless steel for washdown or corrosive conditions, anodized aluminum for general industrial use.

What materials are industrial mounts made from?

Industrial mounts are manufactured from materials selected to match the demands of the installation environment. Anodized aluminum is the most common choice for general industrial applications — it is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and provides a rigid, stable platform. Steel and zinc-plated steel mounts are used for heavier devices or applications requiring higher load capacity and rigidity. Stainless steel (typically 304 or 316) is specified for washdown, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemical processing environments where the mount must withstand cleaning agents, moisture, and corrosive substances. Engineering plastics (nylon, POM) are used for lightweight, non-conductive mounting in applications where metal contact must be avoided or where vibration damping is desired. Always match the mount material to the environmental rating required — particularly in food-grade or cleanroom applications where specific material and surface finish standards must be met.

Can mounts affect sensor performance?

Yes, an improperly selected or installed mount can directly impact sensor accuracy and reliability. If a mount allows vibration-induced movement, a proximity sensor may generate false triggers or miss detections as it shifts relative to the target. If a photoelectric sensor mount does not hold a rigid angle, the beam alignment drifts over time, reducing detection reliability. Camera mounts that flex or vibrate produce blurred images and inconsistent inspection results. The mount must be rigid enough to eliminate unwanted movement under the vibration and shock conditions present in the application. It must also be positioned so that it does not introduce interference — for example, a metal mount placed too close to an inductive sensor's sensing face can affect its detection range. For applications requiring high precision, use mounts with fine-adjustment features that allow precise alignment during commissioning.

What is the difference between fixed and adjustable mounts?

Fixed mounts hold the device in a single, predetermined position and angle — they are simple, rigid, and low-cost, making them ideal when the sensor or device position is known at design time and will not change. Adjustable mounts incorporate articulating joints, slot adjustments, or swivel mechanisms that allow the position and angle to be changed after installation. Adjustable mounts are the better choice when the exact position needs to be fine-tuned during commissioning, when the same mounting hardware must accommodate different sensor models or target distances, or when the mounting location may change as the process evolves. The trade-off is that adjustable mounts are typically more expensive and slightly less rigid than fixed mounts — the articulating joints can loosen over time under vibration if not properly tightened. For critical applications, use adjustable mounts with positive locking mechanisms that maintain position once set.

Mounts - SICK

From sensor brackets and knuckles to bases, links and leveling feet, Centro has the mounting components to build sturdy, adjustable fixtures for your machines. Mounts are used to support physical and position senso...

Categories from SICK (2)

Sensor Mounts

Sensor mounts position and hold sensors so they detect targets reliably. Solid, adjustable mounting keeps sensors aimed correctly and cuts down on false triggers and maintenance.

Sensor Mount Types

Angle brackets – simple mounting for cylindrical and block sensors
Clamp mounts – attach to rods, tubes and extrusion
Adjustable swivel mounts – fine-tune sensor angle
Protective mounts – shield sensors from impact
Stainless mounts – washdown and food environments

Choosing a Mount

Match the mount to sensor size (M8, M12, M18, M30 or rectangular) and your machine structure. Adjustable mounts speed up setup and changeovers. Protective designs extend sensor life in harsh areas.

Centro carries sensor mounts and modular mounting systems for automation.

Related categories: Mounts | Bases | Leveling Mounts | Links | Plates

Plates

Mounting plates provide a flat, rigid base for attaching sensors, brackets, actuators and tooling to machine frames. They're a key part of modular mounting systems, letting you connect rods, clamps and knuckles in the right position.

Plate Types

Adapter plates – connect components with different mounting patterns
Sensor mounting plates – pre-drilled for common sensor sizes
Base and flange plates – anchor rod assemblies to frames
Slotted plates – allow fine position adjustment
Stainless and aluminum plates – for washdown or lightweight builds

Choosing a Plate

Confirm the hole pattern, thickness and material for your load and environment, along with compatibility with your rod and clamp system. Slotted designs make installation and fine-tuning easier. Anodized aluminum suits general use, while stainless holds up to cleaning chemicals.

Centro offers mounting plates and accessories for building sturdy, adjustable mounts on automated equipment.

Related categories: Mounts | Leveling Mounts | Knuckles | Sensor Mounts | Bases

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