INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Scale

High-precision linear displacement sensor for industrial automation and CNC machinery

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Component Specifications

Definition
A linear scale, also known as a linear encoder or glass scale, is a precision measurement device that converts linear mechanical displacement into digital or analog electrical signals. It consists of a main scale (typically glass or steel with fine gratings) and a reading head that detects position changes through optical, magnetic, or inductive principles. Used in CNC machines, coordinate measuring machines, and industrial automation for closed-loop position feedback with micron-level accuracy.
Working Principle
Operates on photoelectric, magnetic, or inductive sensing. In optical linear scales, a light source illuminates fine gratings on a glass or steel scale. The reading head contains photodetectors that detect light/dark patterns as the scale moves, converting these patterns into quadrature signals (A/B pulses) or absolute position data through interpolation electronics. Magnetic scales use magnetized patterns detected by Hall-effect sensors, while inductive scales rely on electromagnetic coupling variations.
Materials
Scale body: Borosilicate glass (for high precision), stainless steel (for rugged environments), aluminum alloy; Gratings: Chrome deposition on glass (optical), magnetic tape (magnetic); Reading head: Aluminum housing, optical lenses/CCD arrays, PCB with ASIC chips; Seals: Nitrile rubber, fluoropolymer; Mounting hardware: Stainless steel
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Accuracy±1μm to ±10μm
Resolution0.001μm to 1μm
Maximum Speed120m/min to 240m/min
Repeatability±0.2μm to ±2μm
Signal OutputTTL, HTL, 1Vpp sine wave, SSI, BiSS-C, EnDat, Profibus, Ethernet/IP
Measuring Length100mm to 3000mm
Protection RatingIP53 to IP67
Operating Temperature0°C to 50°C

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
ISO 230-2, DIN 862, IEC 61131-2, JIS B 6190-7

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Linear Encoders

Precision measurement devices that convert linear displacement into digital signals for position feedback in coordinate measuring machines.

View Product Details

Encoder / Linear Scale

Precision measurement device for detecting linear position and motion in XY motion systems

View Product Details

Linear Encoder

A precision measurement device that converts linear position into digital signals for feedback control in motion systems.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Contamination affecting optical signals
  • Mechanical damage from improper installation
  • Electrical interference causing position errors
  • Thermal expansion mismatch
  • Wear in mechanical coupling components
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Contamination (oil, coolant, dust) on scale gratings
Failure: Signal attenuation or complete dropout leading to position errors
Mitigation: Install protective covers, use IP67-rated scales, implement regular cleaning schedules, apply air purge systems
Trigger: Thermal expansion mismatch between scale and machine base
Failure: Measurement inaccuracies due to differential expansion
Mitigation: Select scales with low thermal expansion coefficients, use temperature compensation algorithms, ensure similar CTE between materials
Trigger: Electrical noise from motors or power supplies
Failure: Erroneous position readings or encoder faults
Mitigation: Use shielded cables with proper grounding, install ferrite cores, separate encoder cables from power lines, use differential signal transmission

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Position accuracy: ±3μm per meter (Grade 1), ±5μm per meter (Grade 2); Straightness: ≤2μm/100mm; Mounting surface flatness: ≤0.02mm/m
Test Method
Laser interferometer verification per ISO 230-2, signal quality analysis with oscilloscope, thermal drift testing, vibration resistance testing per IEC 60068-2-6

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

Compare the published product scope and source details, then include your specifications and quantity in an enquiry.

Manufacturers of Scale

Manufacturer profiles associated with Scale.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between incremental and absolute linear scales?

Incremental scales measure relative displacement from a reference point and require homing after power loss. Absolute scales provide unique position values across the entire measuring length without needing reference points, maintaining position data during power interruptions.

How do I choose between optical and magnetic linear scales?

Optical scales offer higher precision (down to 0.001μm) and are ideal for clean environments like metrology labs. Magnetic scales are more robust against contamination, vibration, and shock, making them suitable for harsh industrial environments with slightly lower precision (typically ±5μm).

What causes signal dropout in linear scales and how to prevent it?

Signal dropout occurs due to contamination on gratings, excessive vibration, electrical interference, or misalignment. Prevention includes regular cleaning with approved solvents, proper grounding/shielding, vibration damping mounts, and maintaining alignment within manufacturer specifications.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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