GCT Series LVDT Position Sensor

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Key features

• All-welded stainless steel construction
• Resistant to harsh environments
• Self contained electronics
• Reverse polarity protection
• Long cycle life
• Mating connector
• Special contact tips

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About the GCT series Gage heads

The GCT Series of heavy-duty gage heads enable high performance in environments containing moisture, dirt, and fluid contaminants. With a spring loaded LVDT, a precision linear bearing, and internal signal conditioning electronics operating on a 4 to 20mA loop, the GCT is ideal for difficult industrial environments and remote locations where sensor power is not readily available and long cable runs are expected. The 4-20mA signal is less susceptible to EMI and RFI interference than low amplitude AC or DC signals.

These robust gage heads allow measurements over stroke ranges from 0 to 0.250 inch [6.35mm] up to 0 to 2.0 inches [50.8 mm]. The maximum spring force is typically less than 8 oz [230 grams]. A removable blackchromed, 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.

The ruggedness, long life cycle, and very high reliability of the GCT 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 GCT 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, air-extend/spring retract, and cable assemblies. Also see our other models with built-in signal conditioning, GCD (bipolar DC voltage), GCDSE (single-ended DC voltage) and GC-485 (RS-485 Digital Series), as well as the AC operated GCA.

Other features GCT Series

• Heavy duty AC-operated gage head
• Calibration certificate supplied with each unit
• Air extend/spring retract available (Consult factory)
• Intrinsic safety approval through Factory Mutual is pending

Applications for GCT Series

• Bridge expansion monitoring
• Pipeline vibration monitoring
• Valve position
• Compressor feedback
• Noisy environments / long cable runs
• In-process measurements feedback loop with PLC or CNC controller)

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