LVDT

Linear Variable Differential

Transducers/Transformers

Definition What is a
LVDT?

Converts the linear motion of an object into

a corresponding electrical signal
Measures Displacement!!!!!!!!

Definition Why use a

LVDT?

Friction Free Operation

NO mechanical contact between core and coil (usually)

Infinite Resolution

Electromagnetic coupling

Zero displacement can be measured

Single Axis Sensitivity

Most LVDTs have open bore holes

Null Point Repeatability

Limited only by electrical noise

Low risk of damage

Infinite Mechanical Life

Effects of other axes are not felt on the axis of interest

Environmentally Robust

Stable/Strong sensors good for structural engineering

tests!!!

Uses

Automation Machinery
Civil/Structural Engineering
Power Generation
Manufacturing
Metal Stamping/Forming
OEM
Pulp and Paper
Industrial Valves
R & D and Tests
Automotive Racing

LVDT accessories tips

Source:http://www.rdpe.com/ex/tips.htm

LVDT Components
Ferrous core

Epoxy encapsulation

Primary coil
Secondary coil
Bore shaft
Magnetic shielding
Stainless steel end caps
Secondary coil
High density glass filled coil
forms

Signal conditioning
circuitry
Cross section of a DCLVDT

Source: http://www.macrosensors.com/lvdt_macro_sensors/lvdt_tutorial/lvdt_primer.p

Consists of a single primary winding P1 and two

secondary windings S1 and S2 wound on a hollow
cylindrical former.
Secondary windings have an equal number of
turns and are identically placed on either side of
the primary winding
Primary winding is connected to an ac source.
An movable soft iron core slides within the
hollow former and therefore affects the magnetic
coupling between the primary and two
secondaries.
The displacement to be measured is applied to

Underlying Principle

In the null position, equql voltages are induced in the two both
secondary coils.
When the core is moved, there will be more magnetic flux in one
coil than the other resulting in different currents and therefore
different voltages
This variation in voltages is linearly proportional to displacement
Null position

Displaced

Advantages

Linearity (linear for displacements upto 5 mm).

Infinite resolution.
High output.
High sensitivity( as high as 40V/mm).
Ruggedness.(can tolerate a high degree of
vibration and shock).
Less friction(no sliding contacts).
Low hysteresis and hence excellent
repeatability.
Low power consumption( less than 1W)

Disadvantages

Large displacements are required for

appreciable differential output.
Sensitive to stray magnetic fields.(but
shielding is possible).
Receiving instrument must be selected to
operate on ac signals, or a demodulator
network must be used if a dc output is
required.
Dynamic response is limited mechanically by
the mass of the core and electrically by the
applied voltage.
Temperature also affects the transducer.

Piezo- electric Transducers

Equivalent circuit

Equivalent circuit of a
piezo- electric transducer