E2K-C25ME1 is a proximity sensor from Omron. It is used to detect metallic- and non-metallic objects. E2K-C25ME1 is a capacitive, unshielded component that operates at low voltage and offers customization.

What Are Proximity Sensors?

Proximity sensors are industrial components that can detect or measure the distance of objects without coming into contact with the surface. They use different methods to do that:

  • Ultrasonic sensors use SONAR, the same technology used by marine vessels to know the depth of waters or locate objects in the oceans. It is inspired by the echolocation capabilities of bats and dolphins. They produce soundwaves, which bounce off surfaces of measured objects.
  • An inductive proximity sensor produces an electromagnetic field when a current flows through it. It has a limited sensing range (between 4 and 40mm) and can detect only ferrous or metallic objects such as copper, iron, aluminum, and steel.
  • A photoelectric sensor is a device that transmits light waves to a target to measure distance. This light can be infrared.

The E2K-C25ME1 high-grade sensor is capacitive. This device identifies the distance of an object by knowing the capacitance, which refers to the ability of a circuit to collect energy or electrical charge.

It works by applying a voltage to conductors that will then produce an electric field between these conductive objects. The field will also generate electrical charges that the objects then store. 

 Electrical charges, however, are dynamic. When the voltage’s polarity reverses, so will the electrical charges.

Unshielded Capacitive Sensor

E2K-C25ME1 is also an unshielded capacitive sensor. Sensors may be shielded, which means the metal covers or wraps around the sensor’s detection coil. Unshielded sensors, thus, don’t have this cover. 

The shield of the sensor implies that the flux is only at the front of the device, and the surrounding metal won’t influence the sensor’s output. 

When it is unshielded, the flux further extends to the surface, allowing the surrounding metal to influence the sensor. In turn, the sensor becomes more sensitive to changes.

Benefits and Applications of E2K-C25ME1 Capacitive Sensors

Unlike inductive sensors, capacitive sensors can measure the distance of several objects – whether it’s ferrous or non-ferrous. It could also sense changes in the flow and pressure, liquid level, thickness of the object, and modifications in the linear position or shaft angles. 

Capacitive sensors can help design accelerometers, which are now found in a variety of common gadgets like mobile devices. They could also detect an ice buildup.

Features of E2K-C25ME1 High-Grade Sensor

  • Sensing distance of 25mm (the limits of most sensors are between 3mm and 60mm)
  • Setting distance of 3mm to 25mm
  • Adjustable distance of up to 15% more
  • Operates at 12VDC to 24VDC
  • Voltage range of 10VDC to 30VDC
  • Sensitivity adjuster
  • Operating ambient temperature of -25 to 70 degrees Celsius
  • Operating ambient humidity of 35 to 95% RH

This article has only covered the basics and we hope it sheds some light on the E2K-C25ME1 High-Grade sensor and its potential applications in the real world. Keep an eye on more related topics in the coming weeks. To buy this product or other related proximity sensors, use our manufacturer's part number tool at the top of this page for real-time price data and inventory availability. For bulk orders, go to our BoM Tool and upload your list for free! 

oemsecrets.com is a search engine for electronic parts for hobbyists and professionals alike with over 120+ distributors and thousands of manufacturers, and a total inventory of over 30 million parts listed and updated every day.