Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) and Concentrating Photovoltaic (CPV) applications require precise positioning of heliostats, parabolic collectors, and mirrored dishes in some of the most extreme environments imaginable. Intense heat by day, rapid cooling at night, sandstorms, and wind are typical of these applications. Pepperl+Fuchs position sensing technologies are designed for reliability and longevity in these demanding conditions.
Versatile inductive proximity sensors can be used to provide positioning feedback, end-of-travel limits and confirmation of “nighttime” or “storm safe” positions. They’re available with extended temperature ranges and IP68/IP69K ratings specifically for outdoor applications.
Inclination sensors are ideal for monitoring the elevation (“tilt”) angle of dishes and horizontal troughs. With accuracy of 0.5 degrees and IP68/IP69K ratings, these gravity-referenced sensors offer 0-5 volt or 4-20mA analog outputs and programmable setpoint options.
Rotary encoders can be used for rotational position feedback for any moving axis, thus can be found on trackers of practically any conceivable design, either single or dual-axis.
Absolute rotary encoder models provide reliable, accurate position information, even through power loss.
Pepperl+Fuchs’ new magnetic encoders and inductive position coding systems deliver accurate position feedback using totally sealed, non-contact technology for reliable, long service life in the harshest application environments.