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Manufacturers of mobile machinery and hydraulic subsystems expect robust quality from the sensor and measurement technology components they use. At the same time, however, they are increasingly under immense cost pressure. Machine operators expect ever more powerful assistance systems, new standards are forcing the use of more complex components, and energy and raw material costs are also rising continuously. However, customers are not bearing the rising manufacturing costs, especially against the backdrop of fierce global competition. OEMs are therefore looking for ways to reduce their costs without compromising on robustness and quality. 

The automation and sensor experts at STW in Kaufbeuren recognized this need and introduced the SMX.pt-ma1 pressure sensor. It is based on a newly developed measuring cell design from STW’s sister company KMW. The basis of this pressure sensor is a thin-film measuring cell welded to the pressure transducer, which guarantees high media compatibility. In an international collaboration, the pressure transducer was further revised in terms of its overall electronic architecture and housing design. The SMX.pt-ma1 offers a modular design that makes it easy to implement individual manufacturer requirements. Thanks to the new system architecture, particularly economical production in high quantities is possible despite the high degree of assembly, as Andreas Huster, Head of Sensors and Measurement Technology at STW, explains: “The production and testing process is optimized for large series. The SMX.pt-ma1 is produced, checked, and tested in batches of several hundred units. This enables us to offer the sensor at a very competitive price, which benefits our customers in the market.” 

The CE-compliant SMX.pt-ma1 measures pressure in ranges from 0 to 100, 250, 400, 600, or 800 bar. The overload pressure is at least twice the maximum value, and the burst pressure is at least four times the maximum value. Like all STW components, the newly developed sensor is designed for the harshest conditions. The operating temperature range is from −40 to +125 °C, and the IP protection class rating is IP67. The shock resistance is 100 g, and the SMX.pt-ma1 can also withstand vibrations of up to 20 g on a continuous basis. A wide range of mounting threads and electrical interfaces are supported. Andreas Huster concludes: "The SMX.pt-ma1 provides machine and subsystem manufacturers with a cost-effective pressure sensor that is designed for the majority of robust and demanding applications. If you need an even more powerful and/or customizable pressure sensor, our M01 series with ECE type approval is the right choice. Through bilateral exchange with our customers, we always find the right solution in our broad sensor portfolio."