Comparing Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive Sensors
In the field of sensing, Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive sensors are two popular choices. They both rely on magnetism to measure various parameters such as position, speed, or magnetic fields. However, they differ in many aspects. In this blog post, we will provide a comparison between these two types of sensors to help you choose the one that suits your needs.
What are Magnetoresistive Sensors?
Magnetoresistive sensors are devices that change their electrical resistance in response to changes in a magnetic field. They can measure small variations in magnetic fields with high sensitivity and accuracy. They come in different types such as Anisotropic Magnetoresistance (AMR), Giant Magnetoresistance (GMR), and Tunnel Magnetoresistance (TMR). Each type has its own advantages and limitations.
What are Magnetostrictive Sensors?
Magnetostrictive sensors, on the other hand, operate based on the principle that the magnetic field changes the shape and size of a material. They use magnetostriction or the change in the length of a material when subjected to a magnetic field. Magnetostrictive sensors can measure position, displacement, and level with high accuracy and fast response time.
A Comparison between Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive Sensors
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetoresistive Sensors | High sensitivity, Low power, Small size | Limited operating temperature range, Sensitive to electromagnetic interferences, Higher cost |
| Magnetostrictive Sensors | High accuracy, Fast response time, Large operating temperature range | Complex design, Large size, Higher cost |
Temperature Range
One of the most significant differences between Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive sensors is their operating temperature range. Magnetoresistive sensors have a more limited temperature range, typically ranging from -40°C to 150°C. On the other hand, Magnetostrictive sensors can operate in a wider range of temperatures, from -40°C to 200°C.
Sensitivity
Magnetoresistive sensors offer high sensitivity with excellent resolution and accuracy. They are capable of measuring small variations in magnetic fields with a range that can go up to ±5 Tesla. Meanwhile, Magnetostrictive sensors can offer accuracies up to 0.001% of the measurement range.
Size
Magnetoresistive sensors are small in size and designed to be integrated into electronic devices seamlessly. Magnetostrictive sensors usually come in a larger size that may not be appropriate for compact applications.
Conclusion
Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive sensors offer high accuracy and sensitivity for the measurement of magnetic fields. However, their different designs and operating principles determine their advantages and limitations. Knowing these differences is essential for choosing the right sensor for your application.
We hope this comparison between Magnetoresistive and Magnetostrictive sensors has helped you understand their differences and make an informed decision.
References
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Lloyd, J., “Magnetoresistive Sensors,” Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, Vol. 36, no. 13 (2003). doi: 10.1088/0022-3727/36/13/R01.
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Grimson, M. J., “Magnetostrictive Sensors and Actuators,” Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures, Vol. 4, no. 4 (1993). doi: 10.1177/1045389X9300400401.