Sensors for turbocharger speed

The new generation of speed sensors from Micro-Epsilon for turbochargers measure the speed of rotation from a very low 200 rpm up to maximum speeds of 400,000 rpm. The sensors measure without contact by exploiting the eddy-current effect and are consequently not subject to any mechanical wear and are maintenance free. The main field of application is for turbochargers in internal combustion engines for cars and trucks. The turbine blades may be produced in aluminum or titanium. Modification of the turbocharger is not necessary. The smallest sensor measures only 3 mm in diameter and can consequently be mounted in even the smallest models. The integrated sensor cable is protected by thermal protection tubing. The ambient temperature may be up to 235°C. The largest measuring gap is 1.5 mm.

A new controller, DZ135, for 9 to 30 V supply has been developed for operating the sensors. An analog signal of 0-10 V and a digital signal of 1 pulse/revolution or 1 pulse/blade can be taken as the output signal. The number of blades on the turbocharger can be set in the controller. With the new series of controllers, special emphasis has been placed on interference immunity. The sometimes extremely high interference fields in engine test rigs do not therefore affect the measurement reliability. The controller can be operated both with and without an external preamplifier. With preamplification of the signal in the vicinity of the sensor, distances of up to 25 m between the sensor and controller can be bridged.

turboSPEED sensors can be employed both in test rig operation and also in road tests. Due to the rugged mechanical construction and the electronic circuit technology, they can be used at high temperatures and also in extremely critical electromagnetic interference fields.

Whitepaper-Download (547 KB)