Six Main Causes of Magnetic Scale Damage and Solutions

Magnetic scales are widely used in automation equipment. Over time they may be damaged by various factors, causing accuracy loss or downtime. This article analyzes core causes and protection strategies.

Core causes

1. Environmental factors: dust, humidity, corrosive gases and temperature changes can wear, corrode or deform the scale and read head.

2. Improper installation: insufficient alignment, loose fasteners or poor mounting rigidity cause uneven gaps and wear.

3. Electrical issues: unstable power, poor grounding, EMI and ESD can damage read head electronics.

4. Lack of maintenance: infrequent cleaning and lubrication lead to contamination buildup and increased wear.

5. Product quality and selection: low-quality materials, inadequate sealing or wrong model selection reduce lifespan.

6. Abnormal events: mechanical impacts, coolant or cutting fluid ingress can cause immediate failure.

Protective measures

- Add protective covers or seals (IP67+) and keep scales away from corrosive gases.

- Ensure precise installation and regular checks for fastener tightness and alignment.

- Use filtered/stabilized power, single-point grounding, shielded cables and proper cable routing.

- Implement routine maintenance: clean with alcohol, inspect cables and replace aging components.

- Choose reputable brands and correct specifications for the application.

By understanding these causes and applying targeted protections, magnetic scale longevity and measurement reliability can be significantly improved.