What is the maximum permissible voltage drop allowed in a 24VDC control circuit to maintain reliable operation of sensors and actuators?

The maximum permissible voltage drop allowed in a 24VDC control circuit to maintain reliable operation of sensors and actuators is typically around 10%, which translates to a maximum drop of 2.4VDC. This means the voltage at the sensor or actuator should not fall below 21.6VDC under normal operating conditions. A 24VDC control circuit is a common standard in industrial automation for powering sensors, actuators, and other control devices. Voltage drop occurs due to the resistance of the wires in the circuit, as well as the internal resistance of power supplies and connection points. Excessive voltage drop can cause sensors to provide inaccurate readings or fail to operate correctly. For example, a proximity sensor may not reliably detect the presence of an object if the voltage is too low. Similarly, actuators, such as solenoid valves or relays, may not fully activate or may operate erratically if the voltage is insufficient. This can lead to unpredictable behavior of the automated system. The amount of voltage drop depends on the wire gauge, the length of the wire run, and the current drawn by the device. Thicker wires and shorter runs will reduce voltage drop. It's critical to calculate and measure voltage drop in 24VDC control circuits to ensure that all devices receive adequate power for reliable operation. If the voltage drop exceeds the permissible limit, the wiring must be upgraded, the power supply capacity increased, or the circuit redesigned to reduce the voltage drop. Therefore, a 10% voltage drop is the standard to ensure all the devices get enough power to function correctly.