Technical Guide Reference Information for Fiber Units Influence of Fiber Cable Length The sensing distance listed in the Fiber Units specifications are based on the fiber cable lengths found in the suffix of the model number. The sensing distance will change if the fiber cable is cut or extended. The following graph shows the percentage change of the various fiber cable length, where 100% is the sensing distance for a fiber cable with a length of 2 m. Use this as a guideline for installation distances. Keep in mind that extending the cable with a fiber connector will result in even shorter sensing distances than the value given in the graph.
120 Sensing distance (%) 100 80 60 20 40 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 7 6 8 9 11 10 Fiber Cable Length (m) * The 100% value is for a fiber cable with a length of 2 m (same for Through-beam and Reflective Models). Reflective Models: Sensing Distance Ratios by Workpiece Materials The following graph shows the percentage change of the various workpieces, where 100% is the sensing distance for white paper, the standard sensing object. Refer to the value of the material that looks like your workpiece. 120 Sensing distance (%) 100 80 60 20 40 0 SUS304 White paper Material Green rubber mat Bakelite Glass t0.7 Anodized aluminum (black) * White paper is 100%.
Types of Fiber Cables This section describes the features of different types of fiber cables. (This is given in the Fiber Unit specifications as either Flexible or Bend-resistant for the cable bending radius, and Coaxial for the appearance. If no difinition is given, a standard cable is used.) Flexible Fibers This fiber is resistant to repeated bends for use on moving parts. Break-resistant Fibers The flexible fiber has a small bending radius for easy routing without easily breaking. It is easy to use because the cable can be bent without significantly reducing light intensity. Structure which has a cladding around a large number of ultrafine cores.
Cladding Core Structure where the multiple fine fibers has been independent. Standard Fibers This fiber have a large bending radius compared with bend-resistant or flexible fiber. Use this fiber where the bending radius is large, or on non-moving parts. Structure only of one fiber These fibers are suitable for sensing small objects at close range. Coaxial Reflective Fibers Receiver fibers Emitter fiber The receiver fibers are arranged around the emitter fiber.
96 Fiber Sensor Features Selection Guide Fiber Units Standard Installation Threaded Hex-shaped Cylindrical Saving Space Flat Sleeved Beam Improvements Small Spot High Power Narrow view BGS Transparent Objects Retro- reflective Limited- reflective Environmental Immunity Chemical- resistant, Oil-resistant Bending Heat- resistant Applications Area Detection Liquid-level Vacuum FPD, Semi, Solar Installation Information Fiber Amplifiers, Communications Unit, and Accessories Technical Guide and Precautions Model Index 96