Linear Variable Differential

Transformer(LVDT)
Linear Variable Differential Transformer(LVDT)
It is a robust, complete linear arrangement transducer and naturally frictionless.
They have an endless life cycle when it is used properly.
It is sensor used for displacement measurement. It is electromechanical device
designed to produce voltage output proportional to relative displacement of a
transformer and an iron core
However, it can also be used for pressure measurement of pressure and other
process parameters.
• It consist of primary winding and two secondary winding.
• The two secondary winding are identical in respect of their number f turns and
placement on both sides of the primary winding.
• Primary side excitation voltage: 1-15 V and frequency 50Hz to 20KHz
• Commonly used: 1V at 2kHz-10kHz
• A movable core of high permeability produces signals proportional to its
displacement by changing the Mutual inductance between the coils
• Nickel-iron alloys, used to construct the core which minimizes the eddy current
losses.
Core Selection
Working of an LVDT

Secondary coils are connected in series as shown in fig. The net output is e0=e1-e2
The working of LVDT circuit diagram can be divided into three cases based on the
position of the iron core in the insulated former.
•In Case-1: When the core of the LVDT is at the null location, then both the minor
windings flux will equal, so the induced e.m.f is similar in the windings. So for no
dislocation, the output value (eo) is zero because both the e1 & e2 are equivalent. Thus,
it illustrates that no dislocation took place.
Cont…….
• In Case-2: When the core of the LVDT is shifted to up to the null point. In this
case, the flux involving with minor winding S1 is additional as contrasted to flux
connecting with the S 2 winding. Due to this reason, e1 will be added as that of e2.
Due to this eo (output voltage) is positive.

• In Case-3: When the core of the LVDT is shifted down to the null point, In this
case, the amount of e1 will be added as that of e2. Due to this eo output voltage
will be negative plus it illustrates the o/p to down on the location point.
Output

• From fig we can see that that the output losses linear relationship with
displacement beyond some limits and this property restricts the range of LVDT.
The normal range is from ±10µm to ±10mm
• Note: output is not starting from zero due to residual output voltage.
 Signal conditioning
• LVDT signal conditioners generate a sinusoidal signal as an excitation source for the
primary coil. “This signal is typically between 50 Hz and 25 kHz.
• The carrier frequency is generally selected to be at least 10 times greater than the
highest expected frequency of the core motion.” The signal conditioning circuitry
synchronously demodulates the secondary output signal with the same primary
excitation source. The resulting DC voltage is proportional to core displacement.
• The polarity of the DC voltage indicates whether the displacement is toward or away
from the first secondary (displacement left or right).
• Fig. shows a practical detection scheme, typically provided as a single integrated
circuit (IC) manufactured specifically for LVDTs. The system contains a signal
generator for the primary, a phase-sensitive detector (PSD) and amplifier/filter
circuitry.
Que for practice