Position Sensing for Pneumatic Cylinders
Magnetic Switches for Pneumatic Cylinders – Reed & Electronic Cylinder Sensors
A magnetic switch reliably and contactlessly detects the piston position on pneumatic cylinders: the piston carries a permanent magnet, and the sensor signals the controller when the end position is reached. This enables end-position sensing, sequence control, and safety interlocks in machine and plant engineering. At STASTO, you'll find reed and electronic cylinder sensors from the VN/RV, VN, DCP, and ZRS series – complemented by mounting brackets and M8 connection technology.
Cylinder Sensors from a Single Source
Why STASTO
Complete Position Sensing System for Your Cylinders
From the sensor through the mounting bracket to the connector – STASTO delivers the ready-to-install solution for piston position sensing.
Reed & Electronic Sensors from One Source
Whether classic reed switch or wear-free electronic sensor – we offer both types for the same cylinder series.
For Common Cylinder Standards
Sensors and mounting brackets for cylinders to ISO 6432 and ISO 15552, compact and round cylinders, plus other STASTO series.
Complete System Incl. Accessories
Matching mounting brackets from the F.S series and M8 connector plugs complete the sensor into a ready-to-install solution.
Technical Advice
We help you select the right sensor by cylinder diameter, output type and connection – matched to your application.
Product Groups
Magnetic Switches & Accessories Overview
From reed and electronic sensors to mounting brackets and M8 connector technology – the complete range for cylinder position sensing.
Technology Comparison
Reed Switch or Electronic Sensor?
Both designs cover the same cylinder series. The choice depends on switching cycles, voltage and desired service life. Specific technical data for each series and variant can be found on the product page.
| Reed Switch | Electronic Sensor | |
|---|---|---|
| Switching Principle | Mechanical contact in the magnetic field | Contactless (e.g. Hall-effect principle) |
| Voltage | AC/DC (many types) | Mostly DC, typically 6…30 V DC |
| Service Life | Contact subject to wear | High, bounce-free |
| Switching Frequency | Moderate | High |
| Example Types | VNCR2, VNPR2, RV2I | VNCE3, VNPE3, DCP-2 |
Applications
Where Magnetic Switches Are Used
Wherever cylinder movement needs to be reported back to the control system – to release the next step, for safety interlocks, or for fault detection.
End Position Sensing in Machine Building
Feedback on extended and retracted cylinders as a release signal in sequence control.
Handling & Assembly Automation
Position feedback from grippers and slides in automated assembly lines.
Tooling & Fixture Manufacturing
Securing clamping and gripping states and reporting them to the control system.
Packaging Technology
Cycle monitoring and fault detection on packaging and conveying machinery.
Conveyor Technology
Motion feedback from pneumatic actuators in compressed air-driven systems.
Maintenance & Retrofitting
Replacement and retrofitting of sensors on existing cylinders.
Guide
Selecting the right cylinder sensor
Reed switches operate with a mechanical contact, while electronic sensors switch contactlessly and without bounce. These criteria help with selection.
Design & function
- Reed switch
- Mechanical contact that is closed by the magnetic field of the piston. Simple design, suitable for AC/DC, economical – contact is subject to wear.
- Electronic sensor
- Contactless switching (e.g. Hall principle), bounce-free, high switching frequencies and long service life – mostly in the DC range (typically 6…30 V DC).
- LED switching indicator
- On series such as DCP, an LED indicates the switching state directly on the sensor.
Selection criteria
- Mounting type
- T-slot, round groove or tie rod determine the sensor or mounting element of the F.S. series.
- Cylinder diameter
- Determines the suitable series and, if applicable, the holder model.
- Output type
- 2-/3-wire, PNP/NPN depending on the control system and variant – please refer to the product page for the exact design.
- Connection
- Direct cable or M8 connector with a matching connector socket from the VSCP series.
Availability & Connection
Connection Types & Sourcing
Depending on the series and version, cylinder sensors are available in various connection types – with a direct cable outlet or with an M8 connector. Cable lengths and other features vary depending on the version.
Connection Types
Direct cable outlet or M8 connector – depending on sensor type and series.
Availability & Lead Time
Please refer to the respective product or variant page for available versions, availability, and lead time, or contact us directly.
Custom & Special Designs
For project-related quantities and special versions, we will gladly prepare a quote for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about magnetic switches for pneumatic cylinders
Answers on selection, technology, and wiring of cylinder sensors.
What is a magnetic switch for pneumatic cylinders?
A magnetic switch is a sensor that detects the position of the cylinder piston without contact. The piston carries a permanent magnet; when it reaches the sensor position, the magnetic switch signals this to the controller – typically for end-position sensing.
What is the difference between reed and electronic cylinder sensors?
Reed switches use a mechanical contact and are suitable for AC/DC, but are subject to wear. Electronic sensors switch contactlessly and bounce-free, mostly operate in the DC range, and offer a long service life.
Which sensor fits my cylinder?
The decisive factors are cylinder series, groove profile, and bore diameter. Many STASTO sensors of the VN/RV series fit cylinders to ISO 6432, ISO 15552, as well as compact and round cylinders. For round and tie-rod cylinders, mounting elements of the F.S series are provided.
PNP or NPN – which output type do I need?
This depends on the input of your controller. The available output and switching type depends on the specific variant – please refer to the product page for the exact specification or ask us directly.
How is the magnetic switch connected?
Depending on the version, either with a direct cable outlet or via an M8 connector. For the connector variants, we offer matching M8 field-wireable connectors of the VSCP series.
Are there sensors for mini and compact cylinders?
Yes. For small sizes, reed sensors from the VN/RV series are suitable, among others; for the compact RLF series, the ZRS11 with a matching mounting bracket is available.
Matching Cylinders
Cylinders for Your Magnetic Switches
The matching pneumatic cylinders for the magnetic switches – by standard and design.
Consultation
Not sure which cylinder sensor fits?
Tell us the cylinder series, bore diameter, and the desired output or connection type – we'll recommend the right magnetic switch along with mounting and connection accessories.