The UC18GS series from Pepperl+Fuchs combines all the functionalities and features that are currently available in the field of ultrasonic sensor technology. By bundling the entire technological know-how in a single series, we can offer you an exceptionally flexible, highly reliable solution for any application.
Ticking All the Boxes…
The UC18GS series literally ticks all the boxes. In terms of functionalities and features it combines everything you can expect from a state-of-the-art ultrasonic sensor. It is the culmination of our ultrasonics technology knowledge in a single series built for one purpose only—to provide you with a highly-flexible yet reliable solution for every application.
Features & Benefits
The small dead band and adjustable sound beam width of the UC18GS ultrasonic sensor allow for fault-free operation in a wide variety of possible application scenarios even in challenging surroundings and confined measuring spaces. The sound beam of the sensor can be adjusted without loss of range. If objects are causing interference—like steps on the interior wall of a tank or other machine parts—the sound signal can be narrowed. This means no expensive changes need to be made to the tank.
By means of the automatic synchronization feature, the UC18GS series supports the easy synchronization of multiple sensors without parameterization. As each sensor features a synchronization input for suppressing ultrasonic mutual interference („crosstalk“), several sensors (up to 10) can be synchronized together by interconnecting their respective synchronization inputs. In this case, each sensor alternately transmits ultrasonic pulses in a self-multiplexing mode. Further synchronization modes are also available (common mode / externally-triggered).
Whether traditional pushbuttons or interfaces like IO-Link or IrDA—UC18GS ultrasonic sensors give users maximum freedom when it comes to programming options. While the IrDA interface allows live data access in running applications for maintenance or analysis purposes, comfortable and detailed configuration to meet each individual application are being performed via IO-Link master or via DTM. The output configuration as well as the sound beam width can also be set directly on the sensor using the programming buttons.
UC18GS Ultrasonic Sensors at Work
Gain more insights into the UC18GS features and how they are utilized in the following application examples.
Application Examples
Adaptable Level Measurement in Confined Spaces
UC18GS series ultrasonic sensors reliably detect the fill level of liquids and granules, regardless of their color and other optical properties. A small opening in the tank cap is sufficient for installation. The diameter of the cone-shaped sound beam can be adjusted for the target area. It strikes the surfaces of the medium over a wide area. In the case of irregular or moving surfaces, the sensor determines an average value and thus indicates the actual level —instead of a potentially distorted punctual value.
Disturbance variables such as support struts or other objects reaching into the measuring field are suppressed by software (PACTware). The level is precisely detected even in the suppressed area. The sound beam radius can be easily adjusted with push buttons on the instrument itself or via software. The range is not affected by this, the level is always reliably detected in the measuring range.
Fail-Safe Bottle Detection in Filling Machines
UC18GS series ultrasonic sensors reliably detect the presence of bottles in the end positions. Instead of taking a point-by-point measurement, their sound beam hits the surface of the container over a wide area. This ensures detection even with varying contours and position deviations and makes the color and texture of the container surfaces irrelevant. The output configuration as well as the sound beam radius can be set with push buttons on the device.
The IO-Link interface allows comprehensive parameterization via the controller without physical access to the sensor. This not only makes commissioning particularly easy, but also enables fast product changeover without time-consuming re-parameterization. Even the complete individualization of products—automated production in batch size 1—is possible via IO-Link.
