What is an Inclinometer Sensor and its Uses?

An inclinometer sensor is an apparatus that reads, calculates, and displays the slope and tilt, as well as the elevation and depression of an object or structure in relation to gravity. The amount of slope, tilt, elevation, or depression is displayed in either an angular measurement or a percentage, depending on the application. Inclinometers are also known as clinometers, tilt indicators, declinometers, tilt sensors, and more.

How They Work

There are different types of inclinometers. There are digital and manual variations, as well as those that have a single- or dual-axel. Some are static, while others are dynamic. The measurement range, sensitivity, resolution, temperature range, output type, and accuracy of inclinometers can also vary. All variations have their place, depending on the specific application it is being used for.

To accomplish a measurement an inclinometer makes use of an accelerometer. The accelerometer measures the movement of a tiny mass. This mass is suspended by springs. The capacitance is measured before and after the inclinometer is tilted, and the mass moves. The difference between the two measurements, is the incline value.

What Are Inclinometers Used for?

Inclinometers have applications in a multitude of industries. These industries and applications can include geotechnical monitoring, air suspension systems, levelling, and monitoring of work platforms, industrial machinery, agricultural machinery, and more.

Inclinometers that make use of MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) technology, are generally used to determine whether the machinery in question is level, and what the level of potential instability is at any point during operation.  The modular design of an inclinometer sensor that is based on MEMS technology, ensures that it can be easily optimised for specific applications. In some models, the sensor can even be adjusted by the user, depending on their personal preference.

Inclinometer Price

The prices of inclinometers can differ depending on the specific application that it will be used for, and the type of inclinometer that will be required. At ATI Systems, we stock and offer a variety of safety inclinometers and accelerators. They are certified as compliant with SIL2 and PLd, ensuring that they are suitable for use within safety applications.

Our inclinometer sensors for safety applications, are available in reinforced plastic housing, as well as stainless steel housing options.

Contact us to find out more about inclinometer sensors, how they can be applied in your industry, and which one will be best suited to your requirements.