Encoders

Linear encoders measure the position of linear axes without intervening mechanical elements. This eliminates a series of potential error sources such as backlash, pitch error, or heating of the recirculating ball screw. Wherever rigorous position accuracy and high machining speeds are needed, linear encoders are essential.

HEIDENHAIN angle encoders enable high-accuracy angular measurement down to a few arc seconds. Various design options offer the optimal solution for any application: sealed versions for high robustness, modular solutions for maximum flexibility in the application, and angle encoder modules with an integrated precision bearing. As a result, process reliability and positioning accuracy are always perfectly matched to the given scenario.

Rotary encoders from HEIDENHAIN stand for premium quality, durability, and precision, delivering accurate and dependable position and speed measurement. Due to their outstanding features and rugged, easy-to-install design, HEIDENHAIN rotary encoders have been used throughout the world for many years.

HEIDENHAIN length gauges deliver high accuracy, even over large measuring ranges. They are commonly used wherever fast, reliable, and accurate measurements are required, such as in production metrology, multi-gauging fixtures, measuring equipment monitoring, and position measurement.

The signal converters from HEIDENHAIN let you flexibly adapt the encoder signal interfaces to the requirements of your applications. For some applications, additional signals, such as from temperature sensors, are processed and forwarded to the subsequent electronics.

Brushless resolvers within the HEIDENHAIN CORPORATE GROUP fall under our LTN brand. These resolvers are wear-free and failsafe in extreme environments. Resolvers are used in numerous applications for servomotor control and precision position feedback in machine tools, packaging machines, industrial robots, and heavy machinery.

Sealed linear encoders feature optimal protection from dust, chips, and splash water. They are especially ideal for use in manually operated machine tools and also in numerically controlled machine tools.

Exposed linear encoders have zero mechanical contact between the scanning head and scale or scale tape. Applications include pick-and-place machines and direct drive systems, production and measuring equipment in the semiconductor industry.

Thanks to their very high system accuracy, angle encoders with an integral bearing are ideal for demanding applications such as machine tools and printing machines.

These angle encoders can be perfectly matched to the application, offering a choice of optical or magnetic scanning and numerous combinations of circular scales, scale drums, and scanning heads.

The optimal interplay between these angle encoders and their high-precision bearings results in high measurement and bearing accuracy, very high resolution, exceptional repeatability, and the added benefit of easy installation.

Rotary encoders for external installation onto machines and electric motors feature a high protection rating of up to IP66 and permissible operating temperatures of up to 100°C.

Rotary encoders for internal installation within devices or motor housings are designed for high vibrations and operating temperatures of up to 120 °C. They offer a protection rating of up to IP40.

The signal converters from HEIDENHAIN adapt the encoder signals to the interface, thereby boosting compatibility with the subsequent electronics. For greater flexibility in the application, signals can be interpolated, and different designs can be selected (e.g., housing, connector, top hat rail, or built-in version).