Eddy current sensors are non-contact displacement measurement systems that generate eddy currents in electrically conductive materials by means of a high-frequency magnetic field. The sensor detects the change of the alternating current resistance of the oscillating circuit, which changes depending on the distance to the measured object.

The eddy current principle makes it possible to take measurements on all electrically conductive materials such as metals. It is particularly suitable for ferromagnetic materials. Another advantage of this measuring principle is that the measurement is not influenced by environmental influences such as water, oil or dust. The eddy current sensors are also wear-free and do not require any special maintenance.

With the displacement measuring system consisting of the sensor head WST and the electronics WAT, measuring ranges of up to 4 mm can be effortlessly recorded as standard. A linearity of up to 1% and a maximum resolution of 0.4 μm can be achieved Thanks to a special temperature compensation system, a broad working temperature range from -20 to +125 °C and a temperature stability of 0.02%/K is also possible.

Since the measuring principle allows non-destructive material characterisation or material testing, eddy current sensors are particularly suitable for test and production engineering.