Measuring wheels

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.

Our products

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.

mrao-200
Measuring wheels 200 mm with O-ring
msap-200
Measuring wheels 200 mm narrow
mrar-152
Measuring wheels 152 mm 6 inch
mrag-200
Measuring wheels 200 mm various
mrap-300
Measuring wheels 300 mm various
mran-305
Measuring wheels 305 mm 12 inch
mrag-500
Measuring wheels 500 mm various
MRAPF500-MRANF500
Hygienic measuring wheels

Measuring wheels from A to Z

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!

Contact person
abp-rojo-isabella-13636
Isabella Rojo
Key Account Vertrieb International

How do measuring wheels work?

Measuring wheels rotate on a surface to be measured and transmit this rotary motion to the encoder. The encoder counts the pulses generated by the revolutions of the measuring wheel and converts them into digital signals that are used to calculate the distance or speed traveled.

The circumference of the measuring wheel and the resolution of the encoder determine how many pulses are generated per meter/ft of movement. These pulses are directly proportional to the distance traveled. A higher pulse rate enables a more accurate measurement of the movement.

Mounting also plays an important role. A spring-loaded device, such as our precision spring arm, ensures a constant contact force between the measuring wheel and the surface. This even contact is crucial for obtaining precise measurement values. In addition, the suitable running surface ensures that the measuring wheel rolls evenly and reliably on the surface. To meet the diverse requirements of different applications, we at abp offer various tread designs. These are specially adapted to the respective conditions and requirements.

What materials are measuring wheels made of?

Measuring wheels can be made from different materials. One common material is aluminum, which is suitable for many industrial applications.

For particularly demanding areas, such as the food industry, we offer measuring wheels with anodized surfaces and FDA-compliant plastics. These meet the industry’s strict hygiene and safety standards.

At abp, we will be happy to advise you on which material is best suited to your specific requirements. Contact us for a customized solution!

For which applications are abp measuring wheels suitable?

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!

What are hygienic measuring wheels?

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.

Industries

In which industries are abp measuring wheels used?

The company abp Antriebstechnik is known worldwide as a manufacturer of encoder measuring wheels – also as a special solution! Wherever precise length and speed measurements are required, measuring wheels from abp play a decisive role.

Measuring wheels from abp are used in the following industries, for example:

  • Food industry: In the food industry, measuring wheels ensure that packaging and cutting processes are precisely controlled. For example, to measure the length of films, labels or packaging materials or to ensure exact cuts or positioning.
  • Automation as well as plant and mechanical engineering: Measuring wheels in conjunction with a rotary encoder detect linear movements by rolling on a surface and convert these into speed or position values. They do not require a reference point and can be used flexibly for length, speed or position measurements.
  • Warehouse and conveyor technology: In conveyor technology, measuring wheels are essential for precisely recording the movement of conveyor systems. They convert linear movements into speed or position data and thus ensure the smooth, controlled transportation of goods.
  • Packaging industry: In the packaging industry, measuring wheels are essential for the precise control of packaging lines, as they accurately monitor product transportation. The measuring wheels from abp are particularly suitable for the reliable measurement of belt speeds.

Manufacture

What makes abp measuring wheels special?

The precision and durability of abp measuring wheels are decisively influenced by the following factors:

  1. Concentricity: We attach great importance to precise concentricity without fluctuations and irregularities. As a result, you benefit from absolutely accurate measurement results. Even at high speeds, our solution guarantees slip-free and reliable measurement.
  2. Material: We use lead-free aluminum as standard, which meets the highest requirements. We also offer special solutions made of alternative materials such as stainless steel or with anodized surfaces – individually adapted to your requirements.
  3. Surface quality: The wheel coating of the measuring wheels plays a central role in the adhesion to various surfaces. The measuring wheels from abp Antriebstechnik are available with different coatings for optimum grip and high resistance to lubricants, environmental influences and other external factors. Possible coverings for the measuring wheels from abp are: cross-knurled, smooth, knobbed, ribbed or with an O-ring.
    The innovative manufacturing process from abp Antriebstechnik means that the coating can be applied to the measuring wheel without any joints or adhesive spots on the coating.

How are measuring wheels mounted?

Measuring wheels are often mounted using special holders (z.B. spring arm, encoder holder) to ensure that they are firmly connected to the measuring system.

Our spring arm allows individual adjustment of the contact pressure, which significantly minimizes the risk of slippage between the measuring wheel and the material. Alternatively, a spring-loaded mounting device ensures that the pressure is applied evenly to the measuring wheel surface, ensuring reliable and precise measurement.

Further encoder accessories

abp-daaf-60120-federarm-drehgeberzubehoer-12596-weiss
Decoder mounting accessories
abp-kfag-3008-klemmflansch-12425-weiss
Clamping flanges