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Magnetic rotary encoder

Bogen AKP18 magnetic rotary encoder

Open PCB-style absolute head (IP00) at 18-20 bit for integration into OEM assemblies.

Need this part, a replacement or a complete package? Our experienced UK engineering team helps you select, source and obtain the right products, with pricing, delivery coordination and after-sales support.

Pricing and availability

Get pricing, sourcing and replacement support

Need Bogen parts, a replacement or a suitable alternative? Send us a part number, or tell us what the machine needs to do. Our UK engineers will come back with the right product, pricing, lead time and delivery, whether that is the original part, a checked alternative or a complete axis.

  • Original parts or a checked alternative
  • Pricing, lead time and delivery in one reply
  • Components, complete axes and ongoing support

No obligation. Add what you know and an engineer will help with the rest. Prefer to configure it? Build a specification.

Add quantity, timing or application notes (optional)

Spec builder

Configure Bogen AKP18

Select every part you need and answer the questions an applications engineer would ask. Our engineers use your specification to come back with the right products, pricing and lead times. You see your summary before we ask for any details.

Already know the part number? Send it to us directly.

  1. 1Products
  2. 2Performance
  3. 3Environment
  4. 4Volumes
  5. 5Your spec
Step 1 of 5

What are you specifying?

Select everything you need. A motor, drive and gearbox can be specified together as one axis.

1 selected: Encoder

Key specifications

Ingress protectionIP00
Speed (max)24,000 rpm
Resolution (max)20 bit
InterfaceBiSS-C, SSI
Temp-40 to +100 C

Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.

Bogen AKP18 replacement and alternative options

Use these supply-network options as a starting point for an engineering check. We can also help source the original Bogen part. Published series figures do not establish an exact-model or drop-in replacement: confirm ratings, fit, interfaces and approvals for your application.

Capacitive rotary encoder

Netzer Precision DL

Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Shafted (not hollow) capacitive absolute encoder, sizes DL-25 to DL-66, sealed to IP65.

Published maximumAKP18DL
Resolution20 bit22 bit meets or exceeds
Capacitive rotary encoder

Netzer Precision DS

Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Encapsulated, factory-assembled version of the VLX for easier installation; defence-tested.

Published maximumAKP18DS
Resolution20 bit23 bit meets or exceeds
Capacitive rotary encoder

Netzer Precision VLM

Limited published data: 1 figure compared

Multi-turn absolute hollow-shaft capacitive encoder that holds position through power loss, so no re-homing.

Published maximumAKP18VLM
Resolution20 bit32 bit meets or exceeds

Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.

Typical applications

OEM integration

What a magnetic rotary encoder is

A magnetic rotary encoder measures angle by sensing the field of a magnet with Hall-effect or magnetoresistive sensors. On-axis designs place a diametrically magnetised magnet on the shaft end above a sensor chip; off-axis designs read a multi-pole magnetic ring around a hollow shaft. Signal processing turns the field into absolute or incremental position. Because there is no optical path, magnetic encoders tolerate dust, oil, moisture and vibration, typically with moderate resolution and accuracy at low cost.

When engineers choose a magnetic rotary encoder

Choose a magnetic rotary encoder for robust, compact feedback in harsh or cost-sensitive applications, such as motors, AGVs, robotics, agricultural and mobile machinery. Off-axis rings suit hollow joints. The trade-offs are accuracy and magnetic interference: accuracy is typically lower than optical, and strong stray fields from brakes or motors can affect the reading. For high precision, choose optical. Consider shielding and mounting tolerances carefully.

How to specify the Bogen AKP18

Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right AKP18 variant:

  • Resolution (bits or counts)
  • Accuracy (degrees or arcmin)
  • Absolute or incremental output
  • On-axis or off-axis ring mounting
  • Interface: SSI, BiSS, SPI, PWM or analogue
  • Mounting tolerances: gap and runout (mm)
  • Environment and IP code

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Mounting near brakes or motor magnets without shielding
  • Exceeding the allowed air gap or runout
  • Expecting optical accuracy from a magnetic encoder
  • Overlooking calibration after installation

Bogen AKP18: frequently asked questions

Can you help replace Bogen AKP18 or source the original?

Send the full model code, quantity and required date. Our engineers can check original-part availability and assess suitable alternatives, including supply-network options where appropriate. We confirm compatibility and any changes needed before recommending a replacement.

What is the Bogen AKP18?

Open PCB-style absolute head (IP00) at 18-20 bit for integration into OEM assemblies. Published series figures include speed 24,000 rpm, resolution 20 bit. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.

Who makes the Bogen AKP18?

The Bogen AKP18 is made by Bogen (Bogen Magnetics) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.

What is the speed of the Bogen AKP18?

The published series maximum speed is 24,000 rpm. Individual models and sizes in the AKP18 range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.

Is there an alternative to the Bogen AKP18?

We can assess suitable replacement options. On published figures, Netzer Precision DL and Netzer Precision DS are options to assess from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.

Are magnetic encoders as accurate as optical encoders?

Typically not. Magnetic encoders tolerate contamination and vibration well but usually have lower accuracy and resolution than optical encoders of similar size. Self-calibration and good mounting can improve results. For high-precision positioning and metrology, optical encoders remain the usual choice, while magnetic types win on robustness and cost.

What is the difference between on-axis and off-axis magnetic encoders?

On-axis encoders read a single magnet on the end of a shaft, which is simple and compact. Off-axis encoders read a magnetic ring around a shaft, which leaves the centre free for hollow shafts or cables. Off-axis designs are more sensitive to mounting tolerances.

Further reading: Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · How to select an encoder · Encoders and feedback

Often compared with

Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:

Other magnetic rotary encoder series

Engineer support

Need Bogen AKP18 or a complete system around it?

Tell us the part or application, quantity and timing. Our UK engineers will come back with the right product, pricing, lead time and delivery.

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  • Like-for-like and better-fit alternatives
  • Standard, modified and custom options

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How it works

From enquiry to delivery

Send a part number or describe the application. Our engineers take it from there: the right product, a clear quotation, and delivery and support arranged.

  1. Tell us what you needSend a part number, or configure the application, quantities and timing.
  2. An engineer reviews itWe check the specification and find the original part, a checked equivalent or a complete axis.
  3. Receive your quotationProducts, pricing, lead time and compatibility notes in one reply.
  4. Order and deliveryWhen you are happy, the order is placed and delivery and after-sales support are arranged.