The new Hengstler Acuro® AX73 is a class leading optical encoder that offers smooth speed regulation with high levels of precision. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for installation in areas where there are space constraints. 

Available from the official Hengstler distributor for southern Africa, Countapulse Controls, this absolute rotary encoder is ideal for ATEX-rated applications. The Acuro® AX73 encoder carries ATEX and IEC Ex certification for gas and dust explosion proof requirements.

This advanced optical encoder offers benefits for a myriad of applications including on winches, cranes, drill and other oil and gas industry equipment, as well as in paint plants, petrochemical facilities, bottling plants and grain mills.

The connection configuration on the encoder allows the routing of cabling with the encoder installation in separate steps. This provides significant cost and time savings during installation, as cabling can be completed in advance. This type of installation also allows the quick replacement of a spare encoder during maintenance and servicing activities.

Another feature that facilitates ease of maintenance is the use of just two screws for the connection hood. Many comparable encoders use six or even eight screws, while insufficient corrosion protection makes such units difficult to uninstall. Special patented screws are used to protect the unit against dust, water and corrosion.

The optical scanning system provides a highly accurate 22-bit resolution sensor signal for wherever precision or smooth speed regulation is necessary. Despite this high level of accuracy, the encoder itself is robustly designed with excellent resistance to shock, vibration and external magnetic fields. The stainless steel housing is rated to IP 67 protection and can operate in Ex-related ambient temperatures from minus 40 to plus 70 degrees C.

With a housing diameter of only 76 mm, the encoder is ideal for use where space is limited. The encoder can be ordered with SSI, BiSS-B, BiSS-C and Profibus interfaces.

Johannesburg-based, Countapulse Controls has an in-depth understanding of the application of absolute rotary encoders and is able to assist the market in selection of the best fit solution for a given application.