NewTek Designs 100th Custom Position Sensor for Downhole Drilling Application

Sensors can be customized to meet unique operating and configuration specifications

Published: Monday, June 12, 2023 - 12:01

(NewTek: Pennsauken, NJ) -- NewTek has designed its 100th custom LVDT position sensor, with a vented body and modified lead lengths to address the operating specifications for a downhole drilling application.

Venting NewTek’s NT-R High Temperature Sensor ensured reliable performance in a downhole drilling tool that operated in a high-shock environment with pressures up to 10,000 psi and temperatures up to 400°F (204°C). With vented holes in the housing, the sensor can equalize pressure inside and outside to operate reliably in temperature extremes of –65°F to +400°F and operating pressures of 30,000 psi.

Most sensors do not often meet application requirements for position measurement right out of the box. But NewTek has the engineering and domestic manufacturing capabilities to customize versions of its standard AC- and DC-operated LVDT position sensors to meet unique operating and configuration specifications.

Customizations may include radiation and submersion resistance, higher temperature exposures, ratiometric output, high stroke-to-length ratios, specific electrical output requirements, ceramic and special core materials, and the use of special alloys such as monel, inconel, hastelloy, and titanium in the construction of the sensor body.

Examples of LVDT customizations include:
• A high-temperature LVDT position sensor was built to withstand extreme temperatures exceeding 1,000°F (538°C) in a material testing environment.
• AC-operated position sensors to withstand shock and vibration associated with the unique environment conditions of ascent and operation in space travel.
• An AC-operated LVDT position sensor designed with a custom core rod to replace a failed LVDT for a power-generation station.
• An LVDT gauge head outfitted with a custom spring for higher stiffness to perform in a dynamic manufacturing application, where cycles in an automated process were too fast for a sensor with a standard spring-loaded probe.
• LVDTs welded with stainless blocks and flanges that remain rugged when operating within a steam turbine.
• A LVDT made of Monel 400 that provided greater resistance against pitting caused by oxidation when used in a seawater application.

NewTek offers sensor customization for different industries, including oil/gas, aerospace, subsea, R&D testing, packaging, turbine, pharmaceuticals, and others. For more information, visit the NewTek website or contact Mike Marciante at 856–406–6877.

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