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Cylindrical nickel-plated brass sensor, M18 thread, 75 mm long, M12 connector

Sick

SICK VL18-3E3340 Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN

SKU CH-ZVR1-X56FR

Cylindrical M18 retro-reflective photoelectric sensor with 0.05 m to 3.7 m sensing range, visible red LED, NPN light-switching output, 250 Hz switching frequency, M12 4-pin connector.

  • Retro-reflective sensing up to 3.7 m range
  • Visible red LED with 2.8° dispersion angle
  • NPN light-switching output at 250 Hz frequency
  • IP67 metal housing rated –25 °C to +70 °C
  • M12 4-pin connector for 10–30 V DC supply

SICK VL18-3E3340 Retro-Reflective Sensor

The SICK VL18-3E3340 is a cylindrical photoelectric retro-reflective sensor designed for industrial detection tasks. It operates on a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply and provides an NPN switching output with a light-switching function. The housing measures 75 mm in length with an M18 x 1 thread diameter, constructed from nickel-plated brass for durability. An IP67 enclosure rating protects the unit against dust and temporary immersion in demanding environments.

Ideal For Fixed-Range Presence Detection

This sensor suits applications requiring a pre-set sensing range of 0.05 m to 3 m using visible red light. The 250 Hz switching frequency supports reliable detection on fast-moving production lines. Builders needing adjustable sensitivity, teach-in functionality, or a PNP output configuration should look at alternative models. The fixed optical alignment and lack of potentiometers mean it fits installations where set-and-forget commissioning is preferred.

M12 4-Pin Connector And NPN Output

The single specification that decides compatibility is the male M12 4-pin connector combined with an NPN light-switching output rated at 100 mA maximum. The control system must supply 10 V DC to 30 V DC and accept an NPN sinking signal with a 2 ms response time. Verifying the controller input type and connector gender before purchase ensures the sensor integrates without wiring adapters or logic changes.

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Price $70.99
Cheaper than about 69% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VL18-3E3340

Questions about this item

Will the M18 x 1 thread and 75 mm housing length fit the mounting holes I already have on my machine?

The sensor uses an M18 x 1 thread and has a 75 mm cylindrical housing, so it will match any existing M18 cut-out of the same length.

How can I confirm the NPN output is switching correctly once I wire it to my 10 V DC … 30 V DC supply?

With the reflector in place, the NPN output pulls low when the beam is unbroken; measure 0 V at the black wire with a multimeter to verify light-switching operation.

Does the box include the M12 4-pin mating cable and the retro-reflector, or must I order them separately?

Only the sensor with its M12 4-pin male connector is supplied; the mating cable and a suitable retro-reflector are not included and must be purchased separately.

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