Product Overview

The SICK Wire Draw Encoder – EcoLine is a precision measurement device designed for accurate wire draw monitoring in industrial environments. It measures wire length with high resolution, providing reliable feedback on the position and movement of steel wires during drawing processes. With a measurement range from 0 m to 1.25 m and a combined resolution of 0.04 mm (wire draw + encoder), this sensor delivers precise data essential for process control and quality assurance. The device features a robust plastic housing made of Noryl, ensuring durability under mechanical stress. Designed as a standard product, it does not qualify as a safety component under the Machinery Directive. Ideal for integration into automated systems, it offers consistent performance across varying operating conditions while maintaining ease of installation and maintenance.

Key Features and Technology

The EcoLine wire draw encoder combines mechanical wire drawing with high-resolution digital encoding to deliver accurate position feedback. The measuring wire is made from highly flexible stranded steel 1,4401 stainless steel V4A/PA with a diameter of 0.45 mm, ensuring minimal resistance and reliable tracking during wire movement. The resolution of the wire draw + encoder combination reaches 0.04 mm, derived from an example calculation based on 262,144 steps per revolution (using a nominal length of 230 mm per revolution). Repeatability is ≤ 0.2 mm, ensuring consistent readings under repeated use. The device operates using a standard IO-Link / IO-Link V1.1 interface for seamless communication with control systems. Its mechanical design includes a wire draw mechanism built from Noryl plastic, offering durability and resistance to wear during continuous operation.

Technical Characteristics

The SICK Wire Draw Encoder – EcoLine has a measurement range of 0 m to 1.25 m, with a resolution of 0.04 mm (wire draw + encoder combination). Repeatability is ≤ 0.2 mm, measured under standard conditions at an ambient temperature of 25 °C. The supply voltage operates within the range of 18 V to 30 V. The unit weight is 0.294 kg, with a net unit weight of the same value. The measuring wire weighs 0.58 g/m and has a diameter of 0.45 mm. The housing and wire draw mechanism are constructed from plastic (Noryl). The enclosure rating is IP50 for the device when mounted mechanically, achieving IP65 protection under mechanical mounting per IEC 60529 standards. Operating temperature range spans –20 °C to +70 °C. All values are based on nominal load and average ambient temperature of 40°C; variations may occur due to environmental conditions or installation specifics.

Configuration and Integration

The EcoLine wire draw encoder integrates via an IO-Link / IO-Link V1.1 interface, enabling direct communication with PLCs and industrial automation systems. The connection uses a male M12, 4-pin universal connector, ensuring compatibility across various equipment types. The device is designed for plug-and-play integration into existing production lines without requiring complex cabling or additional hardware. Its standard configuration supports real-time data exchange, allowing process monitoring and feedback control. The frequency of use is rated at 8760 hours per year (use case: 8760 h/a), based on nominal load conditions. All electronic failures are considered hazardous, as per SICK’s safety documentation (document no. 8015532). This product does not constitute a safety component under the Machinery Directive.

Operating Environment

The EcoLine wire draw encoder is designed to operate reliably within an ambient temperature range of –20 °C to +70 °C. Performance may vary at temperatures outside 25 °C, as values are measured under standard conditions. The device is suitable for use in industrial environments where mechanical vibrations and moderate humidity are present. It is rated IP50 when installed in a non-mounted configuration, while mounted mechanically it achieves an IP65 rating per IEC 60529 standards. Environmental factors such as installation location, traversing speed, acceleration, and measuring range can influence the effective performance of the device. The service life depends on load type and environmental conditions, with no guaranteed lifespan under all operating scenarios.

Industrial Applications

The SICK Wire Draw Encoder – EcoLine is ideal for use in wire drawing and manufacturing processes where precise length measurement is critical. It supports applications such as cable production, wire spooling, and automated winding systems where accurate position feedback ensures consistent product quality. The device’s high resolution and repeatability make it suitable for monitoring wire draw over a range of 0 m to 1.25 m. Its robust design and reliable communication interface support integration into automated control systems. Applications are influenced by traversing speed, acceleration, and environmental conditions. The encoder is particularly effective in environments requiring long-term stability and minimal maintenance, with performance optimized under standard operating conditions including ambient temperature of 25 °C and nominal load conditions.”}