GCD Series LVDT Position Sensor

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Key features

• Heavy duty DC-operated gage head
• All-welded stainless steel construction
• Resistant to harsh environments
• Long cycle life
• CE compliant

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About the GCD series Gage Heads

The GCD Series heavy-duty DC operated gage heads enable high performance in environments containing moisture, dirt, and fluid contaminants. These Gage heads are spring loaded LVDTs (Linear Variable Differential Transformers) with precision linear bearings and internal conditioning electronics. Operating on a nominal ±15VDC supply, the GCD Series delivers an extremely linear, low noise ±10VDC output.

These robust gage heads allow measurements over stroke ranges from ±0.05 inch [±1.27mm] up to ±2 inches [±50.8mm]. The spring force is typically 9oz [255 grams] at fully compressed electrical stroke. A removable black-chromed, hardened tool steel tip is threaded (4-48UNF-2A) to the working end. Internal construction prevents the core and shaft from rotating as they move longitudinally. The integral electrical connector (welded) provides for easy installation and allows replacing a damaged cable without sacrificing the sensor. Installation and adjustment are facilitated by an external ½-20 mounting thread and the two locknuts supplied with each unit. Like in most of our LVDTs, the GCD windings are vacuum impregnated with a specially formulated, high temperature,
flexible resin, and the coil assembly is potted inside its housing with a two-component epoxy. This provides excellent protection against hostile environments such as high vibration and shock.

The ruggedness, long life cycle, and very high reliability of the GCD Series provide the lowest cost of ownership over the life of the equipment onto which they are installed. The one-piece front end (barrel which contains the bearing assembly), machined from solid stainless steel bar, coupled with a bronze bushing, has far greater resistance to bending forces and side loads compared to other designs. This is particularly important on the longer stroke versions; it reduces the common risk of probe damage/bending during installation or maintenance of industrial equipment. The GCD Series designs also require fewer parts and weld joints, thereby increasing overall structural integrity and reliability.

Althen offers options, such as mating connector plugs, special contact tips (including AGD dial indicator tips), airextend/ spring retract, and cable assemblies. Also see our other models with built-in signal conditioning, GCD-SE (singleended DC voltage), GCT (4-20mA 2-wire loop) and GC-485 (RS-485 Digital Series), as well as the AC operated GCA.

Other features GCD Series

• Calibration certificate supplied with each unit
• Air extend/spring retract available (Consult factory)

Applications for GCD Series

• Factory automation
• Industrial printing equipment
• Steel mills
• Metal thickness gaging
• Environments requiring hermetically sealed transducers
• In-process measurements (feedback loop with PLC or CNC controller)

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