We are your partner for innovative solutions in industrial automation. With our passion we improve your competitive position with speed and results.
With our 100 years company history and more than 60 years of sensor experience, Balluff is a world leader and one of the most efficient manufacturers of sensor technology. Balluff is a leading supplier of high-quality sensor, identification and image processing solutions including network technology and software for all automation requirements.
We stand for:
Capacitive sensors detect fill levels and recognize objects. In this new, updated generation of BCS M08 capacitive sensors, Balluff improves their mechanical and electronic properties to enhance their well-known reliability.
A potentiometer integrated into the very compact stainless steel housings lets you to easily access and make adjustments. Adjusting the switching distance after the sensor has been installed at the point of use considerably increases operational reliability, since you can compensate for all installation-related interference in the best possible way--with real-world feedback. The switching status of the device is displayed with an LED, which adds to the convenience.
Features:When it comes to industrial image processing applications, one often thinks of detecting features that are also visible to the human eye. Most industrial cameras work in the visible light range (380 nm -780 nm) and have sufficient sensitivity in the near infrared range.
Detecting in wavelengths outside this range can reveal object features and properties that remain hidden to the human eye and conventional cameras.
Wavelengths below the visible range are referred to as ultraviolet light or ultraviolet radiation (UV, 380 nm - 100 nm). Wavelengths above 780 nm are in the infrared range, while the range up to 1000 nm is referred to as near infrared (NIR) and the range up to 1700 nm as short wave infrared (SWIR).
Whether blue light or time-of-flight, whether a proximity switch or distance measurement sensor, whether shorter or longer range, the cubic mini sensors of the BOS 6K optoelectronic sensor family from Balluff cover all relevant detection principles and a wide variety of light types.
The new generation of the family is more than just an upgrade. Thanks to IO-Link, innovative technologies and additional variants, it will be possible to serve even more and, above all, previously unsolved applications and detection tasks with this series in the future.
Diversity meets uniformityWith the BOS 6K sensor family, the user only needs a single sensor design for a wide variety of applications. This is because all relevant functional principles are available in the same, space-saving and universally mountable housing. This simplifies system design considerably, as only one CAD data set is required, which is identical for all sensor types. This saves a lot of time and effort during installation.
The equipment with IO-Link opens up completely new possibilities for parameterization and user-friendliness. Together with the uniform operating concept for all BOS 6K, this feature helps to put the sensors into operation quickly. It is also easy to exchange or switch between sensors in the family that use different operating principles.
Fork sensors are photoelectronic sensors that have a light transmitter and receiver integrated in one housing. They are the watchful eyes of industry: they detect precise objects, measure distances and control fill levels – all contact-free and at lightning speed. This makes them indispensable in the world of modern automation solutions .
With the third generation of fork sensors, Balluff also offers an entry-level model in addition to the optimised versions.
Features:
Magnetostrictive sensors measure position and speed with high reliability and precision and are available with the EtherCAT interface. When space is at a premium, this latest generation of BTL (magnetostrictive) position measuring systems from Balluff really come into their own, with particularly compact mini-rod or profile designs that are robust and easy to install.
The right sensor solution for a wide range of applicationsThe latest generation of BTL magnetostrictive position measuring systems offers a customised combination of features depending on the product version. We differentiate between two performance classes, allowing you to easily configure the right solution for your application and budget.
Balluff is expanding its portfolio with the VisionSensor, which raises the bar even higher in terms of speed and operability. With autofocus optics and integrated lighting that requires no additional components, vision-based quality control in automated production is easier than ever before. In short, it's an efficiency boost.
The main advantage is that they can detect multiple objects simultaneously and make complex brightness and shape distinctions. This makes them a smart solution, particularly in the automotive and electrical industries, whether for object verification or presence monitoring.
Features:The SAMS (Smart Automation and Monitoring System) designation stands for Balluff's comprehensive automation philosophy. On the one hand, the Smart Automation and Monitoring System includes a wide range of additional functions and additional information of each individual component and, on the other hand, is characterized by its uniform and standardized operating, configuration and diagnostic concept.
Part of this system is our new BOS R254K optoelectronic sensor, which you can use to reliably detect bottles, containers and pallets in the food industry and packaging sector, for example. Designed for demanding applications, it is ideal wherever cleaning is regularly carried out with aggressive agents and high pressure. Resistant to cleaning agents (Ecolab), it meets the high cleaning cycle standard set by Balluff. The IP67 and IP69K protection classes allow it to be used in critical applications with harsh ambient conditions, especially in the factory automation sector.
Features:
Photoelectric mini sensors from Balluff are the right choice when small parts need to be detected precisely, space is tight, and high reliability is important. From factory automation to life sciences and the semiconductor industry, these space-saving wonders provide great solutions and offer great design freedom.
This new BOS R030K family is an effective solution for applications in which other sensors – even previous mini sensors – literally do not fit. It expands our comprehensive, successful portfolio of optical miniature sensors and is a real asset.
The intelligent combination of industrial networks with the IO-Link communication standard is the basis for ever faster, more flexible, more efficient and more versatile production. With the new Entry, Standard and Advanced class IO-Link masters, you can choose from three different performance classes and are guaranteed to find the right solution for your needs.
Advanced IO-Link masterDo you need a high-performance module that can also solve demanding applications? Then the Advanced IO-Link masters are the right choice.
These network modules not only score points with a standard M12 power connector, but also offer extended functions for OT-IT integration.
The Class A ports have switchable outputs (pin 2) up to 4 A with integrated current measurement and configurable current limiting. The Class B ports are electrically isolated in accordance with the standard requirements and also support currents of up to 4 A. This means that devices with higher current requirements, such as pneumatic valves or electric grippers, can also be connected to the master and reliably controlled.
Automation without inductive sensors can hardly be imagined. Wear-resistant, reliable non-contact position detection of metallic objects is required wherever automation is used, whether in mechanical engineering, electronics production, automotive, food, or plastics industries.
Balluff offers a wide range of inductive sensors with diverse designs for nearly any application: from standard sensors to sensors with increased switching distance, hygienic sensors, high-pressure sensors, ex-zone sensors for hazardous areas, and factor 1 sensors. Some sensors have an additional ceramic or PTFE coating so that weld spatter, for example, cannot adhere to them. Sensors that are both factor 1 and all-metal are also available.
Aided by inductive sensors from Balluff, you can automate, monitor, and control processes and conditions at the highest quality, even in extreme environments..
Photoelectric sensors reliably detect the presence of objects and check their shape, color, distance or thickness with high accuracy. Compared to inductive or capacitive proximity switches, optical sensors have a significantly higher detection range. They are real experts with various strengths: detecting and counting parts, monitoring stack heights, through-glass detection, aligning small parts, detecting marks, fill level detection, and much more!
Different surface characteristics, sizes and colors of the objects require different operating principles and designs of photoelectric sensors.
Our wide spectrum offers every light type, whether red light, infrared, blue light or laser technology, in different ranges. With and without background suppression. Various designs – also in mini version – ensure a wide variety of possible applications. Our photoelectric sensors are optimized for robotics, automation, assembly, installation and handling. We also offer reliable and rugged versions for harsh environmental conditions. For other special applications, we also offer our photoelectric mini-sensors, color sensors, light bands and contrast sensors.
Magnetic field sensors are used chiefly for punctual or continuous monitoring of the piston position on cylinders and grippers. The sensor thus recognizes the field of the magnet integrated into the piston through the actuator wall.
With their contactless position detection, Balluff's magnetic field sensors function reliably and wear free: No contact erosion, no bounce and only clean measurement. Even at high movement speeds, the piston position is reliably recognized.
Position and row-position counters are classics in the metal-working industry and world-wide automotive production. They have proven their worth in automation for decades.
Mechanical sensors are used for positioning and limit switch tasks on machine tools and presses, flexible production centres, robots, assembly and conveying equipment, and in machine and plant construction. For decades, they have proven their worth as the traditional strongmen of automation.
Whether your application is position detection, distance measurement, or the detection of solid, powder, or liquid media: BUS ultrasonic sensors are precise all-rounders.
They measure fill levels, heights and sag without making contact as well as count and monitor the presence of objects. Regardless of the colour, transparency, and surface texture, they always perform really well. Fog, dust and impurities are also not a problem for them.
With the BFD ultrasonic position sensor with media contact, we are expanding our portfolio to add an innovative way to directly monitor hydraulic short-stroke cylinders. This reliable and economical solution for workpiece clamping monitoring is a real milestone in the field of metalworking.
Balluff's magnetically encoded sensors are designed for precise positioning and velocity sensing in highly dynamic applications. The high-precision, fast-acting measuring systems are optionally equipped with magnetically encoded linear or rotative measuring bodies. In addition to the sensor heads, Balluff offers you a wide range of magnetically coded targets from our own production to optimally support your measurement application. They are suitable for both linear and rotary applications, for incremental or absolute position measurement.
Their robust workmanship allows them to be used in extreme environmental conditions - here, too, the sensors ensure high availability of your machines or systems.
Accurate position control and the continuous tracking and monitoring of rotational movements are the number one concern in many applications. Our BSI inclination sensors measure the deviation to a horizontal or vertical axis up to 360°.
With two different measurement principles and different angular ranges, the inclination sensors from Balluff are appropriate for many industries and applications.
The most important benefits:BSP pressure sensors monitor pressures of gaseous and fluid media; they can also be used in a variety of ways in factory automation. Available with stainless steel housings are designed for the demanding requirements of extended temperature ranges and harsh environments.
With your rotational housing and the simple, VDMA-compliant programming, they can be flexibly mounted as well as conveniently serviced. Using the bright LED Display, you can track current system pressure quickly and reliably.
Flow sensors let you measure and monitor the flow of process media, like lubricant or cooling water, in a wide range of applications.
When you are alerted that the flow has slowed or stopped, you can respond quickly and prevent an unplanned machine downtime or even system stop. This is how flow sensors, like pressure or temperature sensors, contribute to process security.
Our identification solutions BIS, offer you the key technology to implement essential requirements of modern manufacturing. With RFID technology, objects and products can be clearly assigned in the company and traced at any time. RFID systems are used to make all production steps transparent and traceable and are therefore an essential component for implementing the requirements of modern production and always keeping an eye on all data.
For unique identification and immediate traceability, a data carrier (RFID transponder) is attached to the object to be identified, which acts as a memory. The data is transmitted between the RFID transponder and the read/write head (reader) and passed on to the controller via the evaluation unit or an IO-Link network module. Our RFID solutions can be operated with almost any common controller and the evaluation units support all frequency ranges. And that is exactly what is special about RFID - the contactless exchange of information between RFID transponder and reader.
The RFID system BIS M (13.56 MHz) supports global ISO standards and scores with a high transmission speed for large volumes of data.
Through various combination options of data carriers and read/write heads, the system can be used for many applications. For example, it is suitable, for part tracking in the vicinity or for applications in production control (palletizing, recording on the workpiece, ...).
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".
LF (70/455 kHz) is the first choice for the tool identification over short ranges. Other areas of use are tool transport with conveyor systems, FTS and pallet transport systems and the assembly technology and organization of supplies.
Key benefits:Our low-frequency RFID system (BIS L) is suitable for applications that involve simple "license plate" identification.
For example, often only a (read-only) code is required for backtracing. The 125-kHz system is capable of reading data up to 100 mm away and performs well in an environment of liquid and metal.
RFID handhelds are the optimal companion to stationary readers for flexible and mobile data acquisition at different frequencies. With them, manual processes can conveniently be completed, such as performing rework, recording quality checks, and documenting service and maintenance work. This makes the portable handheld readers particularly suitable for applications in the areas of manufacturing logistics and service, inventory and inventory management, and warehouse management and distribution.
One device, many applications: You can use our basic devices with various accessories to cover all needed frequency ranges. This saves money and increases flexibility. The basic devices are also available in different versions. In addition to RFID functionality, they can also read visual codes, depending on the selected basic device.
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.
The requirements for cameras in industrial environments are high. Above all, consistently high image quality and a long service life are crucial, since 24/7 continuous operation may be required. And changing an industrial camera in an overall system could result in recertification. To avoid this, we offer high-quality electronic components and image sensors.
Digital industrial cameras with USB and Ethernet interfaces have an analog/digital converter, which makes a frame grabber superfluous and significantly simplifies handling. Thanks to the GenICam, GigE Vision and USB3 Vision image processing standards, all cameras have standardized camera communication and unified naming conventions for camera functions and settings. This ensures easier operation.
Smart Vision products from Balluff meet the increasing demands for maximum quality and great flexibility in modern manufacturing plants through integrated industrial image processing.
The most important benefits:Optical identification via 1D and 2D barcodes is a well established method of identifying components and objects, while 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.
Our 3D cameras are ideal for stationary and mobile robotic applications and offer high application flexibility. Whether high-resolution, for harsh environments or with application-specific, integrated software modules, our 3D portfolio offers the right answer for every requirement.
The high-resolution 3D stereo camera impresses with its unique depth image quality and is therefore suitable for use with a particularly large working area, as well as for bin picking small objects from load carriers. Adjustable lenses on the cameras and on the projector allow the 3D stereo camera to be optimally adapted to the desired working area. The GigE Vision interface brings high flexibility in the software application.
The smart 3D camera family is equipped with a comprehensive onboard software package. This enables efficient and reliable object detection, indoor navigation and gripping planning. To optimize the use for specific application scenarios, optional software modules can be used, such as BoxPick and ItemPick.
Alternatively, the GigE Vision interface can be used for customer-specific software applications.
Embedded vision solutions are becoming increasingly popular, whether because of limited installation space or special requirements that demand innovative image processing solutions with built-in intelligence. The improved performance of single board computers has especially boosted this trend and enables efficient, compact and mobile vision applications. Our embedded vision camera modules offer flexibility, high image quality and performance at low cost and are part of our camera kit.
FeaturesImage processing always depends on the right lighting. Balluff offers a wide array of robust auxiliary lights designed for multiple installation spaces and tasks.
With energy-saving and long-lasting LED technology Balluff lighting options guarantee eye safety in accordance with IEC 62471. Select between red light, white light, infrared light or laser variants.
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.
Flexible and reliable - for us, these are essential characteristics of good connection technology. At Balluff, you get everything from a single source: sensors, systems and network technology as well as suitable connectors and connection cables for a wide range of requirements and optimal use in your industry. With our diverse, flexible and reliable connection technology, we support you with rapid integration and ensure quick and easy commissioning of your machines and systems. In our product range you will find various connection cables, distributors and connectors for reliable sealing as well as signal and data transmission. The connections are used in both mobile and robust applications in all areas of industry.
Information and machine statuses need to be recorded and displayed at many points in modern production systems. With our SmartLight, you know at all times what the status of production is. The SmartLights are characterized by a particularly high degree of flexibility. Thanks to various modes such as changing segment sizes during operation, stack light and fill level mode as well as other functions such as flashing and blinking, even critical processes can always be reliably visualized and monitored. The extra-bright LEDs ensure a clear signal effect even from long distances.
With the help of IO-Link control panels, commands are executed at central points of machines and systems. Wiring with IO-Link reduces complexity and saves costs. The configurable and programmable functions as well as the clear feedback offer further advantages over classic operating and input devices.
Modern-day automation places demands on the efficiency of each and every system. Balluff power supplies are designed with control products in mind so you can be sure they will integrate perfectly with your control suite.
With our accessories you succeed in easy mounting, installation and exact positioning of our sensor technology, RFID systems, cameras as well as signalling and display devices for high machine availability. Our large selection of high-quality accessories supports you in the optimal mounting of hardware in machines and systems. The wide Balluff product range offers the optimal equipment in various designs, for almost all applications.
We not only offer accessories for precise sensor mounting, but also a wide range of machine accessories, such as protective housings or accessories for lighting, to optimally illuminate your machines, making it easier to use certain sensors and systems. The extensive portfolio of accessories is optimally matched to each version of our components and thus simplifies the design and installation of your machines and systems as well as your production processes. In addition to a wide range of reflectors and fibers for optical systems, we also offer signal converters and adapters to transport signals efficiently.
We will be happy to advise you on the optimal selection and combination of your accessories.
We offer our customers IIoT capable hard- and middleware in combination with powerful software. This means you benefit from system solutions for the widest variety of requirements in your production environment.
You get solutions for condition monitoring of your machines, for monitoring your production equipment or systems for tool management on injection molding machines or machine tools.
Do our standard system solutions not meet your exact requirements? No problem – we can support you with custom tailored IIoT solutions as well. And we do this completely according to your specifications. So that you too can take full advantage of the opportunities offered by new technologies.
The future of automation is increasingly interlinked and digital. The growing diversity of technology, including in the private sector, means the expectations of many users are increasing while the demands on industry rise.
Meeting these increasing demands necessitates the merging of traditional automation technology (OT) and information technology (IT). The increased use of software is the next logical step.
Balluff offers you a variety of software that, combined with our IIoT capable hardware, represents true added value.