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Cylindrical nickel-plated brass photoelectric sensor with angled light emission and 2 m PVC cable

Sick

Sick VL18-3E3312 photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN

SKU CH-HGA0-4WDNQ

Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with 0.05 m to 3.7 m sensing range, NPN output and IP67-rated metal housing

  • Retro-reflective detection up to 3.7 m sensing range
  • NPN light-switching output with 2 ms response time
  • Brass nickel-plated metal housing rated IP67 for harsh environments
  • Operates on 10–30 V DC with 30 mA power consumption
  • 2 m PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors ready to install

Sick VL18-3E3312 retro-reflective sensor

The Sick VL18-3E3312 is a photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with an NPN switching output designed for industrial detection tasks. Its cylindrical angled housing measures 60.6 mm and holds visible red LED optics behind a PMMA cover. The unit operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage with a 2 ms response time and IP67 enclosure rating.

Suited for DC control systems needing

This sensor suits automation lines, packaging equipment and material-handling systems that require a 0.05 m to 3.7 m sensing range with potentiometer adjustment. It is not for applications demanding PNP switching logic, analogue output or through-beam detection principles. Buyers needing longer range, fibre-optic heads or IO-Link communication should look elsewhere.

Verify supply voltage wiring

Confirm your control cabinet provides 10 V DC to 30 V DC with ripple below 10 % and that the 2 m PVC cable with 0.14 mm² conductors reaches the termination point. Ensure ambient temperature stays within –25 °C to +70 °C and that a suitable reflector can be positioned within the 2.8° angle of dispersion for reliable operation.

How it compares

Measured against everything we stock in Electrical Trade Tools & Kits, at today’s prices. Recalculated every night.

Price $81.99
Cheaper than about 59% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VL18-3E3312

Questions about this item

What voltage supply do I need to run the VL18-3E3312 sensor?

The sensor operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC with a maximum ripple of 10 percent and draws up to 30 mA.

Can I use this NPN output sensor with a PLC input card that expects PNP signals?

No, the VL18-3E3312 provides an NPN switching output; it pulls the load to ground, so a PNP input card will not register the signal correctly.

How can I verify the sensor is detecting the reflector at the rated 3.7 m range after installation?

Align the visible red LED spot on the reflector, then check that the output switches within 2 ms as the target enters the beam; the potentiometer lets you fine-tune the switching point.

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