1. Althen Sensors
  2. Sensors
  3. Rotary position sensors
  4. Intrinsically safe inductive rotary sensors
  5. M500 Intrinsically safe rotary sensor

M500 Intrinsically safe rotary sensor

Compact rotary sensor with non-contact inductive technology for precise angle measurements in hazardous gas, dust and mining environments. Designed for rugged industrial use.


Key features

  • ATEX / IECEx / UKEX certified for gas, dust and mining (Ex I/II M1/1GD)
  • Factory-calibrated angle from 16° to 160°
  • Non-contact inductive technology eliminates wear
  • Rugged stainless steel housing, IP67 sealing
  • Linear output with infinite resolution and low torque
  • Suitable for long cable runs up to 1000 m with five-wire mode

Performance highlights

The M500 intrinsically safe rotary sensor combines high precision and durability in a compact housing. It uses non-contact inductive technology to achieve a linear output with infinite resolution, proportional to shaft rotation. The sensor offers outstanding repeatability and stability over a wide temperature range, with excellent EMC performance.

Usage conditions

Approved for use in hazardous areas, the M500 is certified to Ex I/II M1/1GD, with safe operation from -40 °C to +80 °C. It is sealed to IP67 and resistant to vibration and shock, making it ideal for extreme environments. It supports long cable lengths up to 1000 m using five-wire connection mode.

Possible applications

  • Mining equipment
  • Underground transport systems
  • Hazardous process automation
  • Oil and gas exploration
  • Dust-prone environments (Zone 20)

Advantages of choosing this product

The M500 offers highly reliable performance in harsh and hazardous environments, while minimizing maintenance thanks to its contactless operation. Its compact design, flexible mounting options, and intrinsic safety approvals make it a preferred choice for OEMs and system integrators.

Other important features

  • Shaft rotation with 360° freedom, angle set at factory
  • Optional flange or servo mount
  • Signal range: 0.5–4.5 V (ratiometric with 5 V supply)
  • Optional sprung shaft for mechanical stop
  • MTBF: 350,000 hours at 40°C
  • Full EMC protection (EN 61000-6-2, EN 61000-6-3)

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Technical Specifications

Specification Value
Body diameter 35mm
Body length (to seal face) 44 mm
Shaft 15 mm Ø 6 mm
Independent linearity ≤ ±0.25% FSO @ 20°C (up to 100°)
Temperature coefficients < ±0.01%/°C Gain & < ±0.01%FS/°C Offset
Frequency response >10 kHz (–3 dB)
Resolution Infinite
Noise < 0.02% FSO
Torque < 20 mNm static
Intrinsic safety Ex I/II M1/GD (Ex ia IIC T4 Ga / Ex ia IIIC T135°C Da / Ex ia I Ma)
Environmental limits (operating) –40°C to +80°C
Environmental limits (storage) –40°C to +125°C
Sealing IP67
EMC performance EN 61000-6-2, EN 61000-6-3
Input parameters (connector) Ui: 11.4V, Ii: 0.20A, Pi: 0.51W, Ci: 1.16 µF, Li: 50 µH
Input parameters (cable) Ci: 1.36 µF, Li: 860 µH (max. 1000 m cable)
Output signal 0.5–4.5 V ratiometric (5 V supply, 5 kΩ min load)

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