Our high-precision measuring wheels ensure exact measurement results and are the ideal choice for reliable and efficient length measurement in your applications.
Also available as an anodised version with a food-safe coating.
At abp, we manufacture measuring wheels as encoder accessories made of aluminum. You can obtain various sizes precisely tailored to your application – from 200 to 500 mm in circumference, from 6 inches to 12 inches in circumference or alternatively in special sizes manufactured specifically for your application. Whether cross-knurled, smooth, studded, ribbed or with an O-ring – we also adapt the surface precisely to your requirements. So at abp you will find the optimum measuring wheels for each of your applications.
Our measuring wheels are made in Germany – quality and precision speak for themselves and impress with excellent concentricity properties and maximum measuring accuracy.
Measuring wheels are used in combination with rotary encoders to carry out length, speed and position measurements precisely and reliably. Thanks to their robust design and precise manufacturing, they record dynamic, linear movements without any problems, even in harsh industrial environments.
Typical applications can be found in conveyor technology, the printing and packaging industry, food processing, as well as cable, wire and wood processing. Particularly in applications where precise cutting to length is essential, measuring wheels enable exact cuts, ensure consistent product quality and reduce material losses, making them an indispensable tool for efficient production processes.
On this page, we have summarized all frequently asked questions about measuring wheels for you. Not the right one for you? Contact us now – we will be happy to advise you personally!
Measuring wheels—also known as measuring rollers, length measuring wheels, counting wheels, or encoder wheels—are technical products used in the field of measurement technology. Measuring wheels can be used to reliably measure lengths, distances, or speeds, thereby enabling the precise recording of movements of materials or machines.
In practice, measuring wheels are considered encoder accessories. They are often used in conjunction with sensors, encoders, or other measuring tools.
As the measuring wheel rolls on the surface of the material being measured, its rotational movement is transmitted to the encoder (also known as a rotary encoder) via a shaft. The encoder generates incremental signals, i.e., a sequence of electronic pulses, with each pulse corresponding to a small movement step (increment) of the measuring wheel. The circumference of the measuring wheel and the resolution of the rotary encoder determine how many pulses per meter of movement are generated. A higher pulse rate enables more accurate measurement of the movement.
The signals generated are then interpreted by the control system or an evaluation system and converted into electronic data—for example, for position determination, process monitoring, or speed control.
In combination with strain gauges or additional sensors, measuring wheels can also be used to record other physical variables such as force or strain.
The base body of a measuring wheel is usually made of aluminum or steel. The running surface of the measuring wheel, which comes into direct contact with the surface of the material being measured, can be smooth, knobbed, cross-knurled, or coated—depending on the area of application, the material properties of the material being measured, and the accuracy requirements.
For more demanding applications, such as in the food industry, measuring wheels with anodized surfaces and FDA-compliant plastics are usually used, which meet the high hygiene and safety standards.
At abp, we are happy to advise you on which material is best suited to your specific requirements. Contact us for customized solutions!
The measuring wheels from abp can be used for the distance measurement of a wide variety of materials, such as cardboard, greased and non-greased metals, textiles, wood, steel profiles, carpets, cables, painted surfaces, non-woven fabrics, leather and more.
Different factors such as temperature and contact pressure must be taken into account in order to select the right surface covering for your application.
We will be happy to assist you in selecting the optimum measuring wheel for your application!
To ensure that the results remain accurate, the wheel must be applied with even pressure. This ensures that the measuring wheel is in constant contact with the material being measured and rolls without slipping. This is usually achieved by means of a spring arm or other mounting device.
The tread of the measuring wheel also influences the quality of the results: it ensures that the measuring wheel rolls evenly and reliably on the surface—depending on the material, texture, or direction of movement of the measured material. For example, a knobbly or knurled tread can increase adhesion, while a smooth tread causes less friction.
In order to meet the diverse requirements of different applications, we at abp offer various tread designs. These are specially tailored to the respective conditions and requirements. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation consultation!
Optical encoders use light sources to measure movement and offer contactless measurement. They are particularly advantageous when it comes to avoiding wear or when high resolutions are required.
Inductive sensors measure movement without direct contact and are particularly useful when high temperatures or magnetic fields are present.
Laser or ultrasonic distance measurement systems are ideal for applications that require contactless measurements over longer distances, such as distance measurement or height measurement.
Probe systems or micrometers offer very precise measurement of thicknesses and distances, but are less suitable for dynamic measurements as they require direct contact.
Each of these alternatives offers specific advantages. However, measuring wheels remain the preferred choice in many areas due to their versatility, cost, and applicability, especially for dynamic measurements and integration into rotary encoder systems.
Precise accuracy: Measuring wheels enable highly accurate measurement of lengths, speeds, and positions. They deliver highly accurate results, even in complex applications where other measuring methods sometimes struggle.
Robustness and durability: Thanks to precise manufacturing and high-quality materials, measuring wheels offer a long service life and reliable performance over long periods of time. They are particularly resistant to mechanical stress, which is why they can be used even in harsh industrial environments.
Versatile surfaces: Measuring wheels are available in various surface variants, e.g., with cross knurling, smooth, or knobbed. This variety ensures that they can be optimally adapted to different materials and application conditions.
Easy integration: Measuring wheels can be easily mounted on shafts and connected to encoders or sensors, making integration into existing systems particularly easy.
The Hygienic measuring wheels series was specially developed for applications in sensitive environments, such as those found in the food and chemical industries. Thanks to the FDA-compliant plastic and the anodized surface the measuring wheels meet the highest hygiene requirements while offering precise and reliable measuring solutions.
A typical area of application for the hygienic measuring wheels is precise speed and length measurement in conveyor systems within a food production line. Here, for example, they are used to check packaging film lengths or for the exact positioning of products.
The company abp Antriebstechnik is known worldwide as a manufacturer of encoder measuring wheels—including custom solutions! Wherever precise length and speed measurements are required, measuring wheels from abp play a crucial role.
Measuring wheels from abp are used in the following industries, for example:
The precision and durability of abp measuring wheels are decisively influenced by the following factors:
At abp, we are happy to assist you as your partner with our comprehensive service and support you with any questions or uncertainties you may have.
