IFM Electronic offers a large range of inductive proximity switches for valve-position monitoring applications. The range includes proximity switches designed for use with rising-stem, quarter-turn and manually operated valves, ATEX-approved types for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, and hygienic types for food-industry applications. For rising-stem valves, IFM offers rectangular proximity switches for valve-top mounting, which can be readily accommodated in proprietary valve boxes of almost any type. Also available are cylindrical proximity switches for direct mounting on the valve itself. These can be supplied in 11mm smooth, M12 threaded and M18 threaded versions with either precabled or plug-and-socket connections. The cylindrical proximity switches have stainless steel bodies with Peek sensing faces, making them an good choice for use in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. IFM’s cylindrical proximity switches are also suitable for use with some types of quarter-turn valves. For other types, and for manually operated valves, the company recommends its special-purpose IND proximities. Comprising two independent proximity switches in a compact housing, a single IND switch can monitor both the open and closed positions of the valve. IND proximities are compatible with over 90% of actuators, and almost all manually operated valves.