Sensors, encoders and instrumentation are what tell the control system that a part arrived, how far a shaft turned and how hot the process is running. When one of them drifts or fails, the PLC keeps executing with bad data, which is often worse than a clean stop. MT.parts keeps 50+ sensors, encoders, temperature controllers and process instruments in stock, a catalog built mostly around Omron devices with ABB process and power instrumentation alongside it, including models the manufacturer no longer sells.
Where these devices are used
- Packaging and assembly lines, for part presence, edge and label detection with E3Z and E3S photoelectric sensors.
- Plastics, extrusion and heat sealing, where E5CC and E5CN temperature controllers drive band heaters through solid state relays.
- Conveyors, indexing tables and winders, using E6B2 incremental encoders for speed and position feedback.
- Bottling and clear film handling, where retroreflective and transparent-object sensors detect PET bottles and shrink wrap.
- Process plants and utilities, with current to pneumatic converters and electro-pneumatic positioners on control valves.
- Switchgear and energy management, with power factor controllers on capacitor banks and Ethernet power monitoring on feeders.
How to choose a replacement sensor or instrument
Two devices that look identical on the panel can behave very differently. Check these before ordering:
- Part number first. The full code on the body or nameplate encodes sensing mode, output and connection. Search it in our catalog.
- Sensing mode and range, through-beam, retroreflective or diffuse, and the actual working distance to the target.
- Output type, NPN versus PNP transistor, relay contact or analog signal such as 4 to 20 mA or 0 to 10 V.
- Supply voltage and connection, 12 to 24 VDC or 100 to 240 VAC, M8 or M12 connector versus pre-wired cable, plus the IP rating the environment demands.
- For temperature controllers, the input type (thermocouple J or K, Pt100 RTD), the control output (relay, voltage pulse for SSR, current), the panel cutout (48 x 48 mm or 48 x 96 mm) and whether RS-485 communication is required.
- For encoders, pulses per revolution, shaft diameter and mounting style, and the output circuit, open collector, line driver or push-pull.
If you are unsure which code replaces yours, send us the nameplate data and our team identifies the correct unit.
New, refurbished and obsolete devices
We supply three conditions, and the condition is always stated on the product page. New units are factory-sealed. Refurbished units are inspected, repaired where needed and functionally tested before shipping. Obsolete and hard-to-find sensors, encoders and controllers are models the manufacturer has discontinued, which is often the only way to keep an older machine running without rewiring the panel or rewriting the program. Every device we ship carries a 12-month warranty.
Brands and series we stock
- Omron: E5CC and E5CN temperature controllers, E6B2 rotary encoders, E3S-A, E3S-C, E3S-CL, E3S-DB, E3S-GS, E3Z and E3Z-G photoelectric sensors
- ABB: 12-step power factor controllers, current to pneumatic (I/P) converters, TZIDC electro-pneumatic positioners
The category also lists PowerMonitor 1000 EM3 Ethernet power monitoring units by part number.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between these photoelectric sensors and safety sensors?
The sensors in this category are standard automation devices: they detect presence, position or temperature and feed that signal to the PLC. They are not rated for personnel protection. Light curtains, safety relays and interlock switches belong in safety, where the device carries a safety rating and a defined failure behavior. Never use a standard photoelectric sensor to guard an operator access point.
Can I replace a discontinued sensor or controller with a newer model?
Sometimes, but the panel cutout, terminal layout, parameter list and output stage often differ, which means rework and reprogramming. Replacing with the same discontinued part number keeps the machine and the program untouched. We stock obsolete sensors, encoders and controllers for exactly that reason.
Do refurbished sensors and encoders come with a warranty?
Yes. New, refurbished and obsolete units all ship with a 12-month warranty.
How fast can I get a quote?
We reply to quote requests within 24 hours, including part identification when you only have nameplate data.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide, including to plants outside the United States.
Can't find your part number?
If the sensor, encoder or instrument you need is not listed, we source it. Send us the manufacturer, part number and quantity, and our team locates the unit, including discontinued models. Request a quote.
