The DFS 60 incremental encoders are made in a blind, hollow-shaft version, so the risk of potential contamination by dust, dirt or water is reduced. The hollow shaft encoders are ideal for dirty and dusty conditions with water washdown cleansing. They offer resolution from 1 to 65,536 ppr and are suitable to perform in temperatures ranging from 20 to 100 degrees Celsius; these performance numbers are higher than those of typical optical encoders, according to the company’s press release. 

“Unlike most conventional optical encoders that have a glass or plastic rotating disc, DFS 60 encoders boast a unique nickel code disc that delivers significantly more robust and reliable operation than conventional encoders in heavy-duty industrial applications,” says Scott Hewitt, president of Sick Stegmann, Inc.