Encoders are used in combination with measuring wheels where precise length measurements are required, e.g. in cut-to-length processes as they occur in the wood, paper, glass or metal industries. In many applications it is not possible to install the encoder straight at the drive train to detect the speed of a conveyor belt, because the slip occurring at the belt would cause measuring errors. Here too, encoders are used in combination with measuring wheels.
Measuring wheels are available with a 200 mm or 500 mm circumference. They either consist of pure aluminium with an axially knurled tread or they are made of plastics with different surfaces. An important selection criterion for the wheel material is that the wheel can move on the surface without any slip.