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Cylindrical M18 photoelectric sensor with 2 m PVC cable

Sick

Sick VL18-3E3612 Photoelectric Retro-Reflective Sensor NPN

SKU CH-E6EZ-WS4K4

A photoelectric retro-reflective sensor with NPN light-switching output, 10–30 V DC supply, IP67 enclosure and 2 m PVC cable

  • Detects objects up to 3.7 m away with visible red LED
  • NPN light-switching output handles 100 mA load current
  • IP67-rated PBT/PC housing withstands –25 °C to +70 °C
  • 250 Hz switching frequency suits fast automated processes
  • Pre-wired 2 m PVC cable simplifies installation

Industrial Detection Sensor

The Sick VL18-3E3612 is a photoelectric retro-reflective sensor designed for automated detection tasks. Its cylindrical M18 housing measures 63.6 mm in length and carries an IP67 enclosure rating. The unit operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage and connects via a 2 m PVC cable. A visible red LED light source provides a sensing range up to 3.7 m.

Wiring And Range Fit

This sensor suits installations requiring an NPN light-switching output with a 100 mA load capacity. The fixed 2 m cable and axial optical axis simplify mounting in confined spaces. Builders needing PNP output logic or a plug-in connector should look at alternative models. Applications demanding background suppression or adjustable sensitivity fall outside this device's fixed configuration.

Retro-Reflective Sensing Range

The decisive specification is the retro-reflective sensing range of 0.05 m to 3 m, extending to 3.7 m maximum. This range defines the maximum distance between sensor and reflector for reliable object detection. A 250 Hz switching frequency and 2 ms response time support high-speed counting or presence verification on conveyors.

How it compares

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

Price $63.99
Cheaper than about 73% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VL18-3E3612

Questions about this item

How much heat and power does the VL18-3E3612 draw when it runs continuously?

It consumes 30 mA from a 10 to 30 V DC supply and operates from –25 °C to +70 °C.

What supply voltage and wiring must already be in place for this sensor to work?

A 10 to 30 V DC source with a three-wire cable connection is required.

Will the M18 x 1 housing and NPN output work with my existing PLC input cards?

The sensor fits an M18 x 1 thread, provides an NPN light-switching output rated at 100 mA, and switches at 250 Hz.

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