The Spherosyn 2G encoder (above) has new electronics encased in a tough new metal reader head with new bushings, said to allow more accurate alignment. Unlike glass scales that require regular cleaning and are susceptible to scratches or breaks, Newall’s stainless-steel scales do not suffer from contamination and do not need to be cleaned, maintained or replaced, potentially saving thousands of pounds a year.

The Schneider Electric subsidiary is backing up its claims with a five-year warranty on the encoder and a lifetime warranty on the scales.

The new encoder uses the same hole positions as Newall’s previous Spherosyn reader heads and brackets, and is compatible with the company’s recent readout systems. With an adaptor, it can also be used with older readouts.

"We are very proud of this new generation linear encoder which is made here in our UK facility," says Newall’s recently appointed managing director, Sebastien Nobiron. "The advances our engineers have achieved with the Spherosyn 2G have provided customers with a more cost-effective, higher-performance, reliable and aesthetically designed product. The new curved body is not only stronger and more robust, but it’s also more effective with long scale support kits."