Firstmark LVDT HR Series Displacement Sensor
| Brand | Firstmark |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Product Category | Imported |
| Model | LVDT HR Series |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Firstmark LVDT HR Series is a high-reliability, general-purpose linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) displacement sensor engineered for precision position and motion measurement in demanding industrial, aerospace, and laboratory environments. Operating on the fundamental principle of electromagnetic induction, the HR Series converts mechanical displacement of a ferromagnetic core into a proportional AC voltage output—without physical contact between core and coil assembly. This non-contact operation ensures infinite mechanical life, exceptional long-term stability, and immunity to wear-induced drift. Designed with a robust magnetic stainless-steel housing, the sensor provides inherent electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) shielding—critical for installations near high-voltage equipment, motor drives, or RF sources. Its wide-band excitation capability supports dynamic measurements across frequencies up to several kHz, while its high-output signal level simplifies integration with standard signal conditioning electronics.
Key Features
- Large core-to-bore clearance (up to 1/16 inch / 1.59 mm), enabling tolerance to misalignment, thermal expansion, and mechanical runout without performance degradation
- High-output voltage design minimizes susceptibility to noise and reduces dependency on high-gain amplification stages
- Magnetic stainless-steel enclosure delivers effective EMI/ESD shielding per IEC 61000-4-3 and IEC 61000-4-2 compliance requirements
- Standard calibration certificate traceable to national metrology institutes (e.g., PTB, NIST) included with every unit
- Full compatibility with Schaevitz-brand signal conditioners, demodulators, and DC output modules—including models supporting 0–10 V, ±5 V, or 4–20 mA analog outputs
- Optional high-temperature variants rated for continuous operation up to +220 °C, featuring specialized insulation systems and thermally stable coil formers
- Pressure-rated configurations available with vented housings (equipped with calibrated pressure-relief ports) for use in sealed hydraulic or pneumatic systems
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HR Series accommodates a broad range of target materials and mounting configurations. It is compatible with both ferrous and non-ferrous fixtures when used with appropriate core materials (e.g., 4340 steel or Inconel 718). The sensor meets RoHS 2011/65/EU directives and conforms to CE marking requirements under the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU. For applications governed by quality management systems, the HR Series supports GLP and GMP documentation workflows—calibration records include serial-number-specific data, uncertainty budgets, and environmental test conditions. While not intrinsically safe, explosion-proof enclosures (ATEX Zone 2 / IECEx Zone 2) can be integrated upon request for hazardous area deployment.
Software & Data Management
Although the LVDT HR Series is an analog transducer requiring external signal conditioning, it integrates seamlessly into modern data acquisition ecosystems. When paired with Schaevitz-compatible signal processors (e.g., SCM5B, DSCA, or LVDT-100 series), users gain access to digital output options including USB, RS-485 Modbus RTU, and Ethernet/IP interfaces. Optional PC-based software packages support real-time waveform visualization, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and automated calibration report generation compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. Audit trail functionality—including user login, parameter changes, and calibration event logging—is available in FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant versions for regulated pharmaceutical or medical device manufacturing.
Applications
- Precision machine tool feedback for CNC axis positioning and thermal growth compensation
- Aerospace actuator stroke monitoring in flight control surfaces and landing gear systems
- Material testing machines (MTS, Instron) for sub-micron resolution displacement measurement during tensile/compression tests
- Nuclear instrumentation where radiation-hardened construction and EMI resilience are mandatory
- Hydraulic cylinder position sensing in offshore drilling equipment, incorporating pressure-equalized venting
- Power generation turbine blade tip clearance monitoring using high-temperature variants
FAQ
Is the HR Series LVDT suitable for vacuum environments?
Yes—standard models operate reliably at pressures down to 10⁻³ mbar; custom vacuum-rated versions with welded hermetic seals and outgassing-controlled materials are available.
What is the typical linearity specification for the HR Series?
Linearity error is typically ±0.25% of full-scale output (FSO), referenced to best-fit straight line (BFSL), as verified per ASTM E2234 and ISO 18436-1 Annex C.
Can the sensor be customized for non-standard stroke lengths or electrical connections?
Yes—Firstmark offers engineering support for stroke lengths from ±0.125 in to ±10 in, as well as MIL-DTL-38999, M12, or flying-lead termination options.
Does the calibration certificate include temperature compensation data?
Standard certificates report ambient temperature (23 ±2 °C) performance; extended calibration reports with thermal coefficient characterization (e.g., sensitivity shift vs. temperature) are available upon request.
