Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to a wide range of your questions about FLUX Position Encoders
What industries use FLUX encoders?
FLUX encoders are widely used in robotics, industrial automation, medical technology, aerospace, automotive, and precision measurement applications. We specialize in high-precision motion control and sensing solutions.
Can I get a custom encoder solution for my application from FLUX?
Yes, FLUX offers customized encoder solutions tailored to specific requirements. Contact us with your specifications for more details.
Do FLUX encoders require calibration?
FLUX encoders deliver high-precision results without the need for field calibration. Their advanced signal processing and wide mounting tolerances ensure accurate performance right out of the box.
What is the typical lead time for FLUX encoders?
Our standard lead time varies between 4-12 weeks, depending on quantity and complexity. Contact us for an accurate estimate.
What sizes are available for FLUX encoders?
FLUX encoders come in a variety of sizes to suit different applications, from compact miniature encoders for space-constrained environments to larger industrial encoders designed for high-torque applications.
What is encoder resolution?
Encoder resolution defines the smallest measurable movement an encoder can detect and is typically expressed as counts per revolution (CPR), pulses per revolution (PPR), or bits for absolute encoders. Higher resolution enables finer position detection but does not necessarily improve accuracy, which depends on mechanical tolerances and sensor quality.
What is encoder accuracy?
Encoder accuracy refers to how closely the measured position corresponds to the true position of the rotating shaft. It is influenced by mechanical tolerances, sensor quality, signal processing, and alignment errors. Accuracy is typically expressed in arcseconds, degrees or radians and determines the overall precision of the system.
What is the difference between encoder accuracy and resolution?
In practical applications, accuracy is critical for precision positioning, while resolution is important for smooth motion control and fine adjustments. For example, an encoder with high resolution but low accuracy may detect very small changes but introduce errors due to mechanical tolerances or signal distortion. Conversely, an encoder with high accuracy but low resolution may provide highly reliable position data but with fewer discrete steps.
How accurate are FLUX encoders?
FLUX Angle Encoders achieve a rotational accuracy of ±4 arcseconds, ensuring precise positioning in applications such as machine tools, robotic systems, and stabilization platforms. Their real-time feedback eliminates delays, making them ideal for high-speed automation.
How does FLUX encoder resolution compare to conventional encoders?
FLUX encoders offer resolutions up to 25-bit for absolute encoders, providing extremely fine measurement steps. Unlike traditional systems, FLUX encoders maintain high resolution even in harsh environments, ensuring stable, high-quality position data.
What is the difference between encoder speed control and position control?
Speed control ensures that an encoder maintains a consistent rotational speed regardless of load variations. Position control, on the other hand, ensures precise movement to a specific point.
Why do FLUX encoders perform hysteresis-free?
360° scanning delivers real time position feedback that is free of jitter to enable optimal machine performance within the motion control system.
What communication interfaces do FLUX encoders support?
FLUX encoders support a wide range of industry-standard communication protocols, including SSI, BiSS-C, SPI, and others. The right interface depends on your system requirements and integration needs.
What cable output options are available for FLUX encoders?
FLUX encoders offer multiple cable output options, including radial and axial cable exits, as well as connectorized versions for easy integration. Standard cable lengths are available, and custom cable configurations can be provided upon request.
What environmental conditions can FLUX encoders operate in?
FLUX encoders are built for extreme conditions and can operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C, depending on the model. Many models feature IP67 protection ratings, making them resistant to dust, humidity, and water exposure. They are also designed to withstand high levels of vibration and shock, ensuring durability in demanding environments.
Does FLUX offer extended temperature ranges for its encoders?
Yes, FLUX encoders are designed for extreme temperature environments. Standard models operate between -40°C to +85°C, while extended versions can function from -40°C to +125°C, with some models capable of withstanding storage temperatures as low as -55°C. This makes them ideal for aerospace, industrial automation, and harsh environmental applications where temperature stability is critical.
Why are FLUX encoders available with different housing materials?
FLUX encoders are available with both aluminum and steel housings, each offering distinct advantages. Aluminum housings are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and provide efficient heat dissipation, making them ideal for high-speed applications and environments where weight reduction is critical.
Steel housings, on the other hand, offer superior mechanical strength and durability, making them better suited for harsh industrial conditions where impact resistance is required. The choice between aluminum and steel depends on the specific environmental and mechanical demands of the application.
How do FLUX encoders perform in vibration and shock conditions?
FLUX encoders are specifically engineered for applications with high vibrations and mechanical shocks. Their bearingless design eliminates mechanical wear, making them ideal for gyro-stabilized platforms (gimbals), industrial test benches, and aerospace applications.
How are FLUX encoders tested for reliability?
FLUX encoders are subjected to extensive testing to guarantee long-term performance. This includes thermal cycling tests to simulate extreme temperature fluctuations, vibration and shock tests to ensure mechanical stability, and humidity and corrosion tests to evaluate resistance to moisture and harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, outgassing tests are performed for applications in aerospace and vacuum environments where material emissions must be minimized.
How do I install and set up a FLUX encoder?
Large mounting tolerances enable quick, precise installation without time-consuming calibration. Their compact form and flexible configurations allow easy integration into new and existing systems.
Do you provide technical support and encoder documentation?
Yes, FLUX offers extensive support, including detailed user manuals and datasheets as well as direct assistance from our engineering team for complex projects. Our goal is to ensure smooth implementation and long-term functionality. Please get in contact for further information.
Do you provide CAD models for FLUX encoders?
Yes, CAD models are available for the FLUX encoder portfolio to assist with integration into your design. Data can be downloaded on our website here.
Where can I buy FLUX encoders?
FLUX encoders can be purchased directly from us or through our network of authorized distributors and partners. For inquiries regarding pricing, availability, and custom orders, please find your appropriate contact person here.
What makes FLUX GMI encoders unique?
FLUX encoders leverage Giant Magneto Impedance (GMI) technology, enabling ultrafast, highly precise position detection in real-time. They combine the high accuracy of optical encoders with the robustness of inductive encoders and offer large mounting tolerances like magnetic encoders. This makes them suitable for demanding applications without any compromise.
How can FLUX encoders withstand extreme environmental conditions?
Designed for rugged environments, FLUX encoders operate under extreme temperature fluctuations, high humidity, and exposure to dust and fluids. With an IP67 protection rating, they remain functional even in harsh industrial and aerospace applications.
What are the benefits of FLUX encoders in machine tools?
FLUX GMI Angle Encoders provide high-speed, real-time position feedback with extreme precision. Their flat, compact design and large through-hole allow easy cable routing, while their robust construction eliminates the risk of mechanical failures common in conventional encoders.
How do FLUX encoders perform in high-acceleration environments?
FLUX encoders are optimized for high-speed motion control, making them ideal for test benches, simulation platforms, and dynamic motion systems. Their real-time data processing ensures low latency and jitter-free signal transmission, even under extreme acceleration.
What are the advantages of FLUX inductive rotary encoders (IND-ROT series)?
FLUX IND-ROT encoders are immune to magnetic and electromagnetic fields and provide robust performance in small, confined spaces. They combine absolute position sensing with an ultra-compact, lightweight design and are currently the smallest and most precise inductive encoders on the market.
Do FLUX encoders require maintenance?
FLUX encoders are designed to be maintenance-free due to their bearingless construction, which eliminates mechanical wear. Their robust design, high resistance to vibrations, shocks, and extreme temperatures, and real-time position detection ensure long-term reliability without the need for regular servicing. This reduces downtime, lowers operational costs, and enhances sustainability in industrial applications.
Why can FLUX encoders be directly integrated?
FLUX encoders can be directly integrated due to their frameless design and immunity to magnetic and electromagnetic fields.