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Cylindrical nickel-plated brass sensor with M12 connector and potentiometer adjustment

Sick

Sick VL18-3N3240 Photoelectric Retro-Reflective Sensor NPN

SKU CH-1X8V-AMR1B

Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor detects objects up to 3.7 m with visible red LED and NPN dark-switching output

  • Photoelectric retro-reflective sensing up to 3.7 m range
  • NPN dark-switching output with 2 ms response time
  • IP67-rated metal housing for harsh environments
  • 10–30 V DC supply with 30 mA power draw
  • Potentiometer adjustment for precise detection tuning

Industrial Retro-Reflective Sensor

The Sick VL18-3N3240 is a cylindrical photoelectric sensor designed for object detection in industrial automation. It uses visible red LED light to sense targets between 0.05 m and 3.7 m. The metal housing meets IP67 for dust and water resistance. It suits engineers integrating presence detection on conveyors or packaging lines.

NPN Dark-Switching Output

The sensor provides an NPN switching output configured for dark switching, activating when the beam is interrupted. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply voltage with a 2 ms response time. Connection uses a male M12 4-pin connector. Buyers needing PNP logic or light-switching operation should select a different model.

Low Power IP67 Operation

Power consumption is limited to 30 mA with supply ripple under 10 percent. The brass nickel-plated metal housing and PMMA optics withstand ambient temperatures from –25 °C to +70 °C. No moving parts or cooling fans are present, so acoustic noise is negligible in normal use.

How it compares

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

Price $67.99
Cheaper than about 71% of the 5,006 comparable items (median $95.99).

Specifications

Product
Brand nameSick
Model nameSICK VL18-3N3240

Questions about this item

How far can the sensor reliably detect an object in a real installation?

The rated sensing range is 0.05 m to 3 m, with a maximum possible range up to 3.7 m under ideal conditions.

What does the M12 4-pin connector limit in terms of voltage and signal type?

The connector carries a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply and an NPN dark-switching output with a 2 ms response time.

What clearance is needed to mount the cylindrical brass housing?

The sensor has a 78 mm long cylindrical body with an M12 connector, requiring space for the housing diameter plus cable bend radius.

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