5 Key Industrial Applications Of Optical Encoders

Optical encoders are used extensively in rolling mills, metal processing, blast furnaces, robotics and automation, and cranes. To elaborate further, Walker Machinery, a leading distributor of digital encoders such as linear encoders, rotary encoders and more in Milton, Ontario, explores these applications in detail in this blog.

Where Are Optical Encoders Used?

Rolling Mills

In rolling mills, it is vital to ensure high accuracy in metal thickness and alignment. To meet these requirements, optical encoders are used to monitor the positions of the roller, ensuring excellent accuracy and precision. However, since dust and vibrations can be a potential challenge, it is wise to use sealed encoders with vibration-resistant mounting.

Metal Processing

In metal processing and fabrication processes, the tool position has to be perfect to manufacture parts with very tight tolerances. Optical encoders help monitor the tool movement and relay the feedback to the CNC machine, which helps it to recalibrate its position accordingly.

Blast Furnace

Since blast furnaces handle molten metals, it is paramount to monitor the lifting and tilting mechanisms of the process. Optical encoders fulfill this key role by ensuring that all movements are highly synchronized. However, owing to the high temperatures, it is best to seal them in thermally shielded housing. 

Robotics And Automation

In the case of robotics and automation, optical digital encoders have to contend with both motor position and joint angles. Fortunately, these encoders are more than capable of handling this task.

Cranes

Optical encoders are also a staple in cranes as they are mounted on the roll drum side of the machine. Their primary purpose here is to determine hoist positioning and know when to allow the crane to free-fall or stop. 

Conclusion

To sum it up, optical encoders serve numerous sectors that use the above-mentioned processes and machines to ensure accurate positioning and tracking. 

To learn more about digital encoders, contact us at Walker Machinery today. As one of the leading distributors of digital encoders, linear encoders, rotary encoders and more, we also offer high-quality CNC control systems. With decades of experience in this field, we proudly serve a wide variety of industries and esteemed clients. For more information, contact us at 905-876-0890 today.

FAQs:

What are the core components of an optical encoder?

The core components of an optical encoder include a light source, a photodetector and a code wheel or a disc.

How does an optical encoder work?

An optical encoder takes either light from a source or linear or axial movement and converts it into a digital code for the CNC controller to interpret.