In the past few days, I have received several calls, all inquiring about the encoder AMS40K-1212. We do not have this product; it is a model from Heidenhain. So for each inquiry, I explained the situation.
Eventually, a terminal customer came to discuss the possibility of using alternative products to solve their application needs. This customer was quite urgent, as the suppliers they contacted had long delivery times, which could not meet their demands.
When it comes to alternatives and solving application issues, there are indeed solutions. This still depends on the requirements of the application customer. Generally, for traders, we do not proactively propose alternatives. The communication cost is high, and it is better to explain to the end customer, going back and forth several times.
For customers willing to use alternatives to solve application issues, we can provide assistance. After all, the delivery time for imported products is often several months, which leaves many customers with no choice.
Customized Solutions:
First, let's take a look at this product. It is an SSI encoder with a resolution of 4096*4096 and a flange diameter of 115mm. These parameters are sufficient. We can match a product around these parameters to solve the application issue.
The first solution: Using a stainless steel 78mm explosion-proof absolute encoder with a specially made 115mm flange would perfectly solve the problem. The cost seems a bit high, but compared to the original product, the cost is negligible.
The second solution: Using a 58mm stainless steel encoder with a 115mm flange can also solve the problem.
The final choice depends on the customer's application environment. The difference lies in the 78mm encoder having a thicker inner wall. If there is a requirement for explosion-proof, this option can be chosen. Both are "sturdier" than the original product, which uses an aluminum alloy casing.
The difference in application: The alternative product does not have a base, and a simple bracket can be made by oneself.
That's how it's solved. However, many domestic application enterprises care too much about the casing being identical, which is not advisable. They should focus on the consistency of installation parameters and application data; everything else is not important. If only identical products are used, it is very difficult to find alternatives for these non-standard products.
For procurement, it is even more difficult. Procurement only recognizes the model number and has no feeling for the product. Therefore, finding alternative products still relies on technical personnel to connect.
