For all Wachendorff length measurement systems, the encoder and measurement wheel assembly is mounted on the spring-loaded arm which includes an integral adapter plate that facilitates direct mounting on the customer’s machine - or the system can be supplied with an application customised angle bracket. The contact pressure between the measuring wheel and the web material is completely adjustable thanks to a spring-loaded cantilevered arm design that includes a patented tooth grid mechanism, allowing simple and repeatable preload force adjustment in steps of 5 N. The assembly also compensates for uneven fluctuation in the measured web material whilst ensuring complete unbroken contact. Practically any type of web material can be accommodated with several measuring wheel surfaces available. As the length measurement system can be easily swung from its fixed position to a resting position by adjusting just one captive screw, setup and adjustment is made easy with minimal delay in material changeover and maintenance time.



Wachendorff’s LMSCA length measuring system with various measuring wheels

The LMSCA series is an ultra-compact length measuring system that includes Wachendorff’s WDGP series, 36 mm diameter incremental encoders in a variety of mounting configurations for use with measuring wheel diameters typically from 145 to 200 mm. With a resolution up to 16,384 ppr, the LMSCA can achieve web length measurement down to 12.5 microns per pulse. The encoder delivers A, B, and N channels with inverted signals from a 4.75 to 32V DC supply, in TTL or HTL as well as a choice of CAN, J1939, SSI or RS485 outputs. An M12 connector makes installation straightforward. For larger systems, Wachendorff’s LMSMA series typically include WDGI series 58 mm diameter incremental encoders for resolution to 25,000 ppr and 8 microns per pulse linear measurement - with measurement wheels from 200 to 500 mm diameter. For both product types, the encoder’s IP67 protection rating (IP65 at the shaft input) and high radial and axial force specification guarantees durability in any machine setting.

Wachendorff’s LMSMA length measuring system with 500 mm measuring wheel with an angle bracket supplied for convenient mounting

Whilst these are typical encoder configurations, any type of Wachendorff encoder technology may be fitted to the length measurement systems including absolute encoders. WDGA series absolute encoders feature the German sensor specialist’s patented EnDra® magnetic encoding principle based on a Hall-effect scanning technique that combines a single turn resolution of up to 16-bits and a multiturn capability to 43 bits. These absolute encoders offer the potential for sub-micron resolution length measurement systems when combined with suitable motion control systems. Wachendorff’s absolute encoders include all the output options mentioned above as well as PROFINET, PROFIBUS, EtherCAT and a Universal-IP version.

Wachendorff’s comprehensive range of incremental and absolute encoders, length measurement systems and other specialist measurement products are available with full support from Variohm EuroSensor. Variohm is a designer, manufacturer and sensor component distributor offering sales and application support across a comprehensive range of position, force, pressure, load, and temperature measurement technologies for demanding application solutions in industry, construction, agriculture, motorsports, research and more.