Logo Balluff

Balluff has been a pioneer in sensors, cabling systems, safety components and communication infastructure for over 90 years. Designing and manufactureing a wide range of sensors, transducers, ID systems as well as connectivity products that are used in a variety of industries including automotive, packaging, metal fabrication. Offering not only automation components, but also our consulting and service. Let Balluff be your partner in automation success.

Products

Sensors

Balluff offers premium sensors for a wide range of application requirements, from presence detection and position measurement to level detection and pressure, for general industrial use or for tough applications in critical environments.

Pressure Sensors

Balluff's pressure sensors measure a variety of pressures, such as hydraulic or pneumatic systems for machine movement, as well as liquids, viscous media and gases for other processes. These sensors are available with integral displays that also provide a programming means and diagnostics window into the sensor or as an instrument only device with no display. Pressure sensors connected to networks such as IO-Link can provide improved process flexibility and control through enhanced sensor monitoring, parameterization, and error reporting back through the system controller.

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Inductive Sensors

For non-contact detection of metallic targets at ranges generally under 50mm (2 inches). Inductive proximity sensors emit an alternating electro-magnetic sensing field. When a metal target enters the sensing field, eddy currents are induced in the target, reducing the signal amplitude and triggering a change of state at the sensor output.

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Capacitive Sensors

Balluff's capacitive sensors are not only superior in object and level detection applications, but they are also highly specialized for a wide range of challenging applications. The capacitive sensors consist of high temperature and pressure ratings, stainless steel and PTFE housings for harsh environments, a wide supply voltage range and especially compact form factors.

Balluff capacitive sensors are ideal for presence detection of nonmetallic objects and levels of granulates, powders, viscous media or liquids, whether conductive water-based or non-conductive fluids such as oil.

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Magnetic Field Sensors

Balluff's proprietary magnetizing process brings a new level of accuracy to magnetic encoders. The stronger, more sharply defined magnetic poles produced by Balluff's Permagnet technology deliver higher practical system accuracy, enabling Balluff encoders to be more tolerant of variation in the working distance between the encoder read head and the tape. Permagnet technology reduces dispersion and distortion of the magnetic field throughout the specified working range, reducing the influence of gap-distance variation on the accuracy of the position measurement in real-world applications.

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Magnetic Linear and Rotary Encoders

Balluff Micropulse linear position sensors have achieved a worldwide reputation for accuracy, stability, and rock-solid reliability. This doesn't happen by chance. Micropulse sensors are designed from the ground up to exceed expectations in demanding industrial environments. Balluff understands that quality, performance, and reliability are only part of the story. Diverse applications require diverse products with features that enhance usability and improve process efficiency.

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Magnetostrictive Linear Position Sensors

Rugged, absolute linear position measurement from 1 to 300 inches

Balluff Micropulse linear position sensors have achieved a worldwide reputation for accuracy, stability, and rock-solid reliability. This doesn't happen by chance. Micropulse sensors are designed from the ground up to exceed expectations in demanding industrial environments. Balluff understands that quality, performance, and reliability are only part of the story. Diverse applications require diverse products with features that enhance usability and improve process efficiency.

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Photoelectric Sensors

Balluff's photoelectric sensors include a wide variety of housings including exclusive miniature designs, tubular styles from 8mm through 30mm, and small, medium, and large block styles. These devices provide non-contact detection of parts over longer distances than other sensing modes such as inductive or capacitive sensors while providing numerous mounting options and flexibility.

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Ultrasonic Sensors

Whether for position detection, distance detection or detection of powdery and fluid media - our ultrasound sensors are precise all-rounders. Their high resolution and small blind spots guarantee the highest precision. And with a large detection area, even larger object distances are no impediment for them.

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Temperature Sensors

With infrared temperature sensors, you can monitor high temperatures even in environments that are inaccessible or hazardous for humans, detect hot objects (even in motion), reliably detect temperature values and measure/monitor temperatures with or without contact in a wide range of applications.

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Inductive Couplers for Discrete Sensors

When quick or frequent wiring changes need to be made, inductive couplers can provide a fast and error-free way to connect multiple discrete PNP sensors. Balluff offers two versions to meet your specific application needs. The version in an M18 cylindrical housing can connect to up to four sensors, while the version in a Q40 cuboid housing can connect up to eight sensors. These IP67-rated couplers transmit power and signals across a small air gap.

An inductive coil in the base and remote units sends and receives the magnetic signals. A single base unit can be used with multiple remote units, so you can create several wiring setups on the remote-unit side and interchange them as needed. Balluff?s passive junction boxes make this wiring a simple task. To connect to the base unit, simply place the base in front of the remote. Perfect alignment isn?t necessary, and their orientation can be changed. They begin communicating once they are in close proximity, at which point LEDs on the base and remote will switch on to indicate that a connection is active. Magnetic mounts for the Q40 models protect the couplers and keep them aligned and at the optimal distance.

This is a smart retrofit to replace electromechanical or hardwired connections on existing machines. A slip ring or rotary connector will eventually wear out, but an inductive coupler avoids mechanical failure, since the base and remote don?t come in contact. Changing a die or mold often requires disconnecting and reconnecting cables, where it?s easy to bend a pin in the connector or put other stresses on the connector, eventually causing it to fail. With inductive couplers, you mount the remote coupler at the same position on each die or mold, and then swap as needed. Give your machines a productivity boost by changing out wired connectors for non-contact onestes.

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SMARTLEVEL sensor

An extension of Balluff's level detection family, designed for automatic point-level detection of water based liquids when immersed, or looking through container walls.

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RFID Solutions

Balluff RFID systems are designed for some of the toughest environments and can connect to just about any control network. With the widest selection of tags, antennas, and processors, Balluff can address just about any identification application in the plant. From the stalwart BIS C system, which has revolutionized the machining center, to the BIS U, which can read tags at distances up to about 6m, Balluff has the system that is right for the job.

BIS M Industrial RFID System

High frequency RFID designed for the toughest applications

The BIS M RFID system (13.56 MHz) supports global ISO standards and is capable of reading tags up to 400mm away. Ideal for work in process(WIP) applications, the BIS M system is built to withstand the rigors of the manufacturing world. With tags built to survive temperatures up to 220C and systems capable of processing massive amounts of data quickly, chances are good that the M system will exceed most requirements for data collection needs.

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BIS C Industrial RFID System

Short-range RFID for harsh environments

Especially high-performing and flexible are the BIS C low-frequency RFID systems with the reliable tool identification in coolant- and lubricant-enriched machining centers. An exact positioning is not always necessary. Many data carriers can also be dynamically read and described "in passing".

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BIS L Industrial RFID System

The answer for easy identification tasks

Our low-frequency RFID system (BIS L) is suitable for applications which involve simple "license plate" identification.

The 125-kHz system is capable of reading data up to 100 mm and performs well in an environment of liquid and metal.

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BIS U Industrial RFID System

Long-range traceability

BIS U is a long range system which operates at the FCC approved standard frequency, 902-928mHz. The U system can read tags up to 6m away. Like the M system, there are U tags designed for high temperature applications up to 220C. This system is common for addressing logistics or work in Process applications that may require a read range greater than 1ft.

Quite possibly the most versatile passive RFID system available, UHF can address a myriad of applications due to its flexible read ranges, high-speed reading and multi-tagging capability.

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Machine Vision and ID Solutions

Balluff Vision solutions from Balluff meet the increasing requirements for maximum quality and great flexibility in modern production plants by using industrial image processing and providing reliable detection for ultimate quality control. Optical identification via 1D and 2D barcodes is a well established method of identifying components and objects and flawlessly managing systems and processes.

Machine Vision

Machine vision is a key technology in a wide range of industrial sectors such as life science, traffic and engineering. It enables real-time analysis and processing of visual data, detects defects, performs quality control, reads barcodes and guides robots.

Machine vision solutions optimize production processes and improve quality, efficiency and safety. Balluff offers a broad portfolio of machine vision components, including industrial cameras, intelligent vision sensors, 3D cameras and embedded vision. These solutions play a crucial role in automating your products and processes, making them more efficient and reliable.

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Optical Identification

Secure identification and traceability

Optical identification via 1D and 2D barcodes is a well-established method of identifying components and objects and flawlessly managing systems and processes.

Balluff's range of products in this area includes stationary barcode readers, mobile handheld readers and accessories for standard and industrial grade applications. All devices offer scanning options for the standard 1D or 2D barcodes.

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Network Technology

To reliably control and monitor your machines and systems, you need professional industrial communication and network technology. The requirements for industrial networks are extensive and diverse. The ever-increasing volume of data and complex communication require powerful and reliable components that are capable of transporting information across all levels.

This is especially true when high protection classes, robustness, use at high temperatures or special interfaces and connections for the greatest possible safety are required.

The intelligent combination of powerful industrial networks with the IO-Link communication standard enables the reliable and flexible exchange of information in a wide range of applications.

Balluff thus enables you to optimally network your network components and provides an important building block for the industrial automation of your company.

IO-Link

Intelligent combining of industrial network with the IO-Link communication standard is the ideal solution for ever faster, more flexible, more efficient, and more adaptable production. This provides you with a powerful infrastructure for reliably managing the growing volume of data. It transports your data through the entire manufacturing process and enables seamless communication from the sensor into the Internet, making IO-Link the ideal enabler for Industry 4.0.

Balluff offers holistic IO-Link solutions with high-performance IO-Link sensors and the best IO-Link network and connectivity. Balluff speaks IO-Link in every field and with all principles of operation, so you have access to these IO-Link advantages throughout the entire system.

  • Read This Article About Balluff IO-Link
  • More Information on IO-Link
  • More About EtherNET IP
IO-Link
Network Blocks

Ever faster, more flexible, more efficient and variable production demands seamless communication from the sensor to the Internet. The result is a growing amount of data within the production processes. This demands components which can make this information available. At the same time an infrastructure is required which transports the data across all levels.

  • Profibus
  • Profinet
  • CC-Link
  • CC-Link IE/Field
  • DeviceNet
  • EtherNet/IP
  • EtherCAT
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I/O Blocks

Efficient transport of signals

I/O blocks from Balluff connect discrete I/O and analog sensors and actuators to the control level via a fieldbus or network. The number of lines is substantially reduced by the use of the blocks.

Moreover, I/O blocks offer additional functions for signal preprocessing and expanded diagnostic options. Different designs and connection techniques enable solutions for a wide variety of applications, even under the most extreme environmental conditions.

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Network Switches

Optimum infrastructure for complex networks

The Ethernet-based network systems are increasingly gaining significance in industrial automation. Balluff offers diverse portfolio of Ethernet-based systems and network components for machine and system design, for example, Profinet and Ethernet/IP.

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Inductive Couplers

Contact-less transmission for complex networks

Balluff portfolio of inductive couplers offer unique contact less solution to transmit data and power across an air gap. Thus, no mechanical wear to worry about. The system availability is higher, the cycle times are shorter, the sequences are more flexible. The units can quickly be disconnected, are easy to handle and maintenance-free. enabling you to meet new demands quickly. As the inductive couplers are IP67 encased devices they are practically immune to water, dust and any other debris in the environment.

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Solutions
Simplify IO-Link Device Integration

IO-Link devices are smarter and bring with them information that goes far beyond basic functionality. For example, IO-Link devices offer parameters for configuration in different modes of operations, provide condition-based alerts and diagnostics information to help eliminate or reduce downtime and simplify overall connectivity.

To utilize the IO-Link devices to their fullest potential requires the ability to configure the devices. Unfortunately, until now, one has had to rely on the controller or PLC provided functionality for configuration, or purchase expensive configuration software from IO-Link master providers. Balluff's market-leading IO-Link master portfolio now makes it simple to configure, monitor and troubleshoot IO-Link devices with a built-in, enhanced web server.

web-server

This powerful web server is available with all of the Balluff IO-Link masters for EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and EtherCAT. The web server utilizes the IODD (IO-Link Device Description) file that comes standard with each IO Link device to enable configuration of the devices in human readable format and drop down menus.

In addition to monitoring process data and configuring the IO-Link device with IODD, the web server also allows the preloading of IODD files for devices that may be required in the field.

  • Configure IP address and network parameters, and manage port configurations
  • Status and diagnostics information about network and connection ports
  • Upload IODD files, and configure IO-Link devices with easy-to-use interface
  • Remote monitoring and troubleshooting of IO-Link device's diagnostics data

Connectivity

Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation.

Single-ended Cordsets

Flying leads, pigtails, single-ended cordsets

Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation. Many combinations of solutions are available and are presented below to facilitate connectivity designs.

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Double-ended Cordsets

Plug and play cordsets. Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our double-ended cordset portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience.

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Y-Splitter

Robust splitters for rapid, reliable connections

Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our Y-splitter portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect.

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Receptacles

Balluff's line of receptacles offers a full family of sizes, threading, and number of conductors to fulfill an automation requirements. Receptacles are a key component in connecting power to the outside world while protecting the inside of the cabinet. Receptacles can be used in many different applications which needs to connects power on one side and equipped to connect a plug while keeping the operation IP67 rated.

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Field Attachables

M8, M12, M23 and 7/8" field wireables

Balluff's line of field attachables offers a full compliment of options to establish standard sensor and actuator solutions in the automation environment. These components provide a high level of reliability and confidence, enabling accurate and repeatable connection IP ratings during maintenance. Many combinations of solutions are available to facilitate future connectivity designs.

Balluff's field attachable provide the fastest method to add a connector to a cable, and that means increased productivity. The color-coded insert allows quick placement of the individual conductors with a reduced chance of mis-wiring.

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Junction Blocks

M8 and M12 blocks cable out, terminals and quick disconnect versions

Balluff's multiple interface blocks (MIB) allow multiple sensors and actuator signals to be easily routed back to a control system. These fully potted blocks carry shock and vibration ratings and are well-suited for many types of industrial applications. Balluff junction blocks are characterized with ease of integration in mind that enables their perfect integration into systems and machines. Balluff's MIBs have flexibly mounting to all standard profiles and baseplates using the central and additional lateral fixation holes.

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Bulkheads

We offer you an extensive product range of bulkheads. Our plug connectors RJ45 and M12 (A-, B- and D-coded) in various designs are exceptionally robust, resistant to shocks and vibration.

High dust and water protection and high-quality materials distinguish the connectors. They ensure a reliable and rapid connection through the control cabinet wall or other housings.

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Bulk Cables

Balluff's line of connectivity solutions complements entire line of Balluff's automation components portfolio and more. Our connectivity portfolio assures reliable operations that everyone has come to expect from Balluff with over 90 years of automation experience. Our solutions are tailored to wide variety of industries and applications including welding, stamping, food, and automation. Many combinations of solutions are available and are presented below to facilitate connectivity designs.

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Tees

Splitters without wires ensure secure connections

Balluff has an extensive product range of tees for the reliable collection, connection and splitting of two signals. They are distinguished by their small, narrow and compact design and are available in different physical forms.

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Power Supplies

Balluff power supplies are designed by Balluff with control products in mind, so you can be sure they will integrate perfectly with your control suite. These supplies have reliable power and performance to meet the high demands of industrial automation.

DIN Rail Mount Power Supply

High-performance power supply units ensure reliability

Balluff's short-circuit-proof, single, or triple-phase power supplies for automation are approved according to CE/TV, UL, and CCC. Different voltages of 12 V, 24 V, and 48 V can be selected. The most important features include: top-hat rail assembly, status display, regulatable output voltage, parallel connection, ready and alarm output. Output power of 18 to 960 W. Protection class IP20.

Download Power Supplies Catalog

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IO-Link Power Supply Units

Continuous monitoring power supplies

Heartbeat® power supply ensures a reliable and efficient power supply of sensors, actuators, controllers, and HMIs. It was developed especially for critical applications with high demands on quality, long service life, and diagnostic capability. And, it is distinguished by especially high-quality components, a long service life, and integrated monitoring.

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Intelligent Power Supply Units

For excellent system availability

Intelligent power supplies with Heartbeat® technology give reliable feedback on the real time and long term status of the supply. Built with the roughest applications in mind, these power supplies provide many great advantages:

  • High energy efficient (>93% efficiency)
  • Electrically durable (power boost 150% for 4 seconds)
  • Long lasting (minimum service life of 15 years)
  • Vibration and shock resistant
  • IP67 - Outside the cabinet rated
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Enclosed Power Supplies

Power supplies for stand alone machines

Enclosed power supplies are ideal for small to medium-size applications where no control cabinet is used, eliminating an additional distribution board.

The compact form of enclosed power supplies make them ideal for small, self-contained applications such as vending machines, slot machines, or machine modules. They are installed directly into the device enclosure.

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Human Machine Interfaces

SmartLight LED Stack Lights with IO-Link Interface

Flexible, scalable, intelligent stack lights

The SmartLight offers three programmable modes of functionality: segment or stack light, level indication, and run light mode. Additionally, a SmartLight with a buzzer option is available for audible feedback.

STACK LIGHT MODE:

  • 1-5 segments
  • Programmable customizable colors for each segment
  • Blinking mode with programmable frequency

LEVEL MODE:

  • Individual LEDs light up to display level
  • Level input mapped directly to SmartLight
  • Programmable customizable colors for level indication

RUN LIGHT MODE:

  • Complete module displays the running light effect
  • Programmable colors of running segment and background
  • Programmable speed for running segment
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Safety

To ensure both the safe operation of your machines and systems and to meet the safety requirements for machines and systems in industry, Balluff offers a comprehensive portfolio and solutions for your safety. This enables you to meet and reliably comply with the requirements of ISO 13849-1 Functional Safety as the standard for the safety verification according to the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC.

With the installation of protective devices on machines and systems, important machine safety measures are already implemented in accordance with the Machinery Directive. From guard locking devices, safety sensors to control devices such as emergency stop and optoelectronic protective devices to safe I/O modules, Balluff enables you to create unique safety concepts for your company that provide a high level of safety up to the highest safety level PL e (Performance Level e according to ISO 13849-1:2006).

Download the Smart Safety Catalog

Profisafe over IO-Link
  • Infrastructure for automation and safety technology up to PLe / SIL3 via IO-Link
  • Low maintenance costs in case of service due to comprehensive diagnostics and easy device replacement
  • Lower costs by using standard M12 single-ended cordsets
  • Reduction of the required IP addresses
  • Standardized wiring concept so reliable guard locking devices can be connected directly
  • Nearly any safety device can be connected
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IO-Link blocks for safety applications
  • Suitable for safety applications up to PLd/SIL2
  • Low maintenance costs when service is needed – thorough diagnosis and simple component replacement
  • Cost savings thanks to standard M12 single-ended cordsets
  • Remote maintenance for reduced downtimes
  • Saving in blocks by grouping and standardizing machine functions
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CIP Safety I/O Module
  • Integration, acquisition and control of safety components in safe applications up to SIL3, CAT4/PLe
  • Reliable processing of safe application data
  • Connection of single and dual channel safety devices
  • Suitable for the connection of safety and standard components
  • Digital outputs for drivers up to 2A per dual channel
  • Space-saving mounting on the machine
  • IP67 protection class, TÜV and ODVA certified
  • Self-monitoring and diagnostic LEDs
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Safety Switches

Robust and reliable guard locking devices

BID F101 safety switches from Balluff with a separate actuator provide protection for persons and machines. Together with a machine control system and a protective barrier, they safeguard access to the hazardous areas.

Balluff offers a wide range of safety switches to fit applications requirements; safety switches without interlocking function, with mechanical interlocking, and with electrical interlocking.

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Safety Light Curtains

Photoelectric danger zone protection

BLG 4A safety light curtains from Balluff are photoelectric, electrosensitive protective equipment. They detect fingers, hands, and other body parts and are used in work areas where machines present potential hazards. They stop hazardous movements in these areas.

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Emergency Stop Device

Compact housing for easy installation

As a supplementary protective measure, the emergency stop device initiates an immediate stop command whenever necessary. Therefore, it can be used for personal protection functions. The device must be visibly and easily accessible at any time to permit a stoppage in the event of an emergency.

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