INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Scale/Disk

High-precision rotating disk with optical or magnetic patterns for position/speed detection in encoder systems

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Component Specifications

Definition
A precision-engineered rotating disk component within encoder systems that contains precisely patterned markings (optical lines, magnetic poles, or capacitive patterns) which interact with sensors to generate electrical signals corresponding to angular position, rotational speed, or linear displacement. The disk's pattern resolution directly determines the encoder's measurement accuracy and resolution.
Working Principle
The disk rotates with the measured shaft, and its patterned surface interacts with stationary sensors (optical, magnetic, or capacitive). As patterns pass the sensor, they create periodic signal variations that are converted to digital pulses. The pulse count determines position, while pulse frequency determines speed. Optical disks use light transmission/reflection through precise gratings; magnetic disks use alternating pole patterns; capacitive disks use varying dielectric patterns.
Materials
Optical disks: glass (borosilicate) or polymer (polycarbonate, acrylic) with chromium or photoresist patterning. Magnetic disks: ferromagnetic alloys (nickel-iron) with magnetized patterns. High-end: ceramic composites for thermal stability. Coatings: anti-reflective (optical), protective (parylene).
Technical Parameters
  • Accuracy ±1 arc-second to ±5 arc-minutes
  • Diameter 10-300 mm
  • Thickness 0.5-5 mm
  • Line Count 100-50,000 lines/revolution
  • Maximum RPM 5000-20000 RPM
  • Pattern Type Incremental/Absolute (Gray code, binary)
  • Operating Temperature -40°C to +120°C
Standards
ISO 16063, DIN 43855, IEC 60068

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Scale/Disk.

encoder disk rotary encoder scale optical encoder disk magnetic encoder disk precision code disk encoder pattern disk position measurement disk Scale/Disk Scale/Disk in Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Encoder System

A precision measurement device that converts angular or linear position into digital signals for position feedback in CMM arms.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Pattern contamination/damage
  • Thermal expansion mismatch
  • Mounting misalignment
  • Material degradation under UV/chemical exposure
  • Electrostatic discharge damage (optical disks)
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Contamination on optical patterns
Failure: Signal dropout or erroneous readings
Mitigation: Sealed encoder housings, regular cleaning protocols, contamination-resistant coatings
Trigger: Thermal expansion mismatch between disk and shaft
Failure: Pattern distortion and accuracy loss
Mitigation: Material matching, temperature compensation algorithms, low-CTE materials

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Pattern position tolerance: ±0.5 μm to ±5 μm, Flatness: <5 μm, Runout: <10 μm
Test Method
Laser interferometry for pattern accuracy, coordinate measuring machines (CMM) for dimensional verification, optical inspection for pattern defects, thermal cycling tests

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.5 / 5.0 (34 reviews)

"Found 20+ suppliers for Scale/Disk on CNFX, but this spec remains the most cost-effective."

"The technical documentation for this Scale/Disk is very thorough, especially regarding technical reliability."

"Reliable performance in harsh Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing environments. No issues with the Scale/Disk so far."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between incremental and absolute encoder disks?

Incremental disks have uniform periodic patterns that generate pulses for relative position measurement. Absolute disks have unique coded patterns (Gray code, binary) that provide unique position values for each angular position without requiring a reference point.

How does disk material affect encoder performance?

Glass disks offer superior thermal stability and precision for high-accuracy applications. Polymer disks provide better shock resistance and cost-effectiveness. Material choice affects thermal expansion, durability, and optical/magnetic properties.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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Scale Plate Scale/grating